PUTTING- Golf’s Softer, More Gentle Side.

Golf’s Softer, More Gentle Side
First installment in a series of three by Steve McCullough.

The game of golf came into being nearly 500 years ago. Ever since, it has been played on the ground and in the air. A lot of attention has been paid to the aerial part of the game, but nowhere near as much to the ground attack. When you observe the activity at any practice facility, you see where people spend their time. Far too many golfers concentrate their energy towards “Drive for Show “ and not enough towards “ Putt for Dough .” This series is intended to elevate the importance of putting and assist with becoming a better putter.

Putting seems so simple that anybody should be able to do it reasonably well. Therein lies the catch; looks can be very deceiving. The mechanical, physical, and mental skills necessary to be a great putter are numerous.

First, we will examine the mechanical aspects of putting. Great putters share four (4) common traits. They all tend to hold the putter with the palms of their hands facing each other. In addition, they place both thumbs on the flat side of the grip. When you arrange your hands in this manner, a delicate balance is created and maximum feel is promoted. The hands should adhere to the grip ever so softly which greatly refines the sense of touch.

Next, we will discuss what is commonly referred to as the pendulum stroke. This stroke is prevalent in today’s game due to advances in turfgrass varieties and maintenance. The pendulum stroke is achieved by moving the putter with one’s hands, arms, and shoulders simultaneously. The only noticeable joint movement occurs in the hip area. Thus the stroke is controlled by the large muscles of the torso, rather than the smaller ones in the hands and arms. This technique promotes a motion that is relatively easy to control and repeat.

While utilizing the pendulum stroke, it is critical that the putter accelerate through the striking area. From its’ farthest point in the backswing the putter head should move forward with smooth acceleration to the ball and beyond. This will cause the ball to separate from the putter face cleanly and roll with authority. Putts struck in this manner will be less affected by irregularities in and on the putting surface.

Putts aimed incorrectly tend to cause compensations in a players’ stroke. To avoid this, one should strive to get the ball to start on the intended target line. This can be facilitated by setting up to the ball with your eyes directly on top of the target line. You can achieve this position by setting up and then dropping a ball from either eye socket to the ground. The dropped ball should land on the target line. Gravity is such a wonderful thing! While in this setup position, by rotating your head toward the target you will be able to look down the line to the hole.

Next installment: Creating the proper body structure
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