Learning how to putt consistently is sometimes difficult but by incorporating a setup routine before each putt you will dramatically improve your odds of becoming a successful putter. The reason for this is by following the same routine or checklist each time you will know that you have gathered all the information that is necessary for making good decisions.
From the moment you have finished your approach shot you should begin going through your checklist for determining how to sink your putt. The more data that you can collect and knowing that you have covered all the bases the better decisions you will ultimately make. Below is a recommended setup putting routine that you can implement.
1. Begin by taking a general survey of the green well before you actually reach the green. Your examining the overall tilt of the green and if there are any lakes or mountains nearby. Putts will tend to roll away from mountains and towards lakes and ponds.
2. Then get behind the ball and squat down to begin to determine the line, speed and slope of the putt.
3. Walk to the side to get a view from a different angle. Basically we are in a informational gathering process.
4. Take a close examination around the hole where the ball gets close to the hole and losses speed because this is where it will be the most effected by any break.
5. Walk well behind the hole and squat down again to determine if your preliminary assessment is correct.
6. Once figuring your target line and the spot to aim for begin your setup.
7. Position your eyes, feet and shoulders parallel to the target line and take a few practice strokes.
8. Square the putter club face to the ball and target line.
9. Take your final look at your target line by swiveling your head but remember to keep your shoulders parallel to the target line.
10. Visualize a successful putt in your mind before you take your stroke. You want to eliminate any negative thoughts. A helpful habit is to focus on previous good putts that you have made in the past.
You are now ready to complete your putt. However, if you begin to second guess your decision then stop, step away and analyze the situation again. Any doubts you may have while your putting will ruin your concentration and tempo. Once you have a decision commit to it completely and with confidence.
All professional golfers have a setup routine that they implement religiously before every putt. It is the most objective means of being assured that they have considered all the data available in order to make a sound decision.
Learning how to putt takes dedication and practicing the right golf putting drills that develop proper fundamentals, consistency and self confidence. However with time and patiences anyone can become an excellent putter.
Also for more information on learning proper putting fundamentals visit http://golf-how-to-putt.blogspot.com/ where you will find comprehensive lessons on grip, set up, proper stroke, reading greens and help for common putting problems.
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