Technically Sound Putters Lead to Solid Putting

The fundamentals of putting are based on having a solid easy stroke and having equipment that fits and is technically sound. Solid fundamentals begin with the set-up. With the correct set-up a natural stroke and sure shot follow.

There are some basic points for the putting stroke set-up and even fitting of the putter. Place the eyes over the ball (this allows seeing the putting line). Move the feet about shoulder width. Place the hips over the heels (this allows for a solid foundation). Let the arms drop down below the shoulders (this allows for the clock pendulum stroke).

The foundation has been set. Now grip the putter (at this point some players might be grabbing the steel shaft). Your set-up stance will tell the length of putter for fitting. Mark the spot on the grip just above the top hand. This length is the proper length for comfortable putting. The fitted club will be the guide for the proper set-up each time a putt is to be made.

Once the foundation has been established with the correct length putter, having a balanced putter will lead to further success. If a putter is not balanced, it will torque at address and even during the stroke; the putter will contribute to a missed putt; it will become a variable along with speed, slope of the breaks, greens condition, and length.

Most putters will fail one or both of the simple check tests. The first is the spin test. With the grip pointing down, hold the putter just below the head between the palms. Spin the club. The more waggle it has the more unbalanced it is. The second test is the push test. Place the end of the grip on the floor and hold the club with one hand just below the head. With a finger of the free hand, push where the “sweet spot” is marked. If the head moves there is no real “sweet spot.” If the putter fails one or even both, how is the putt going to be accurate?