By: Stan Thomas
Putting in golf is an art. Just like the golf swing itself, there is artistry to it when it is done well.
The golf swing is violently gentle, but a good putting stroke is simply gentle. If you can find this gentleness in your putting stroke you’ll likely find consistency as well.
Here are a few images that will help you find a gentle putting stroke:
1) Image the shaft of the putter is limber piece of hose. If you have this image in your head the only way you can find a true putting stroke is putt slowly and softly.
2) Or, imagine your putting shaft is made of fine glass. Imagine if you stroke your golf ball to harshly your shaft will shatter.
3) You’ll want a light grip on your putter as well. I imagine the grip is made of hot coals to insure I have a proper light feel while putting, keeping the finger grip soft.
If you’re right handed think of your putting stroke as being dominated with your right arm and hand. Your right hand initiates the action back and then forward into the golf ball. Your left hand is along for the ride, more or less acting as a guide.
Bend over the golf ball far enough so that your right forearm is horizontal to ground, or as close as you can comfortably make it.
Your right hand should be looking squarely down at the straight putting line.
Find your putting stroke can take time. Have some of these images in mind the next time you head out to practice and see if they help.
