Matthew McLaughlin: Simple Practice Routines to Improve Your Putting Skills
Matthew McLaughlin defines putting as often the most overlooked aspect of golf, yet it can make the most significant difference between a great round and a frustrating one. Many golfers spend hours practicing their drives and irons but neglect their putting game However, improving your putting skills doesn't require complicated drills or extensive time With a few simple practice routines, you can quickly become more confident on the greens and see improvement in your scores
One of the most effective ways to enhance your putting is by focusing on your stroke consistency. To start, set up a few balls at different distances from the hole and practice
making putts from varying lengths Begin with shorter putts to build confidence, then gradually increase the distance. The key here is maintaining a smooth and controlled stroke with minimal wrist movement. A consistent stroke allows you to focus on your aim and speed rather than trying to compensate for an inconsistent technique
Another helpful practice routine involves creating a target for your putts. Place a tee or coin a few inches past the hole and aim to put the ball into the target This simple drill helps you focus on your line and improves your ability to finish the putt at the right pace You can also use this drill for longer putts to keep the ball online and avoid overshooting the hole This method encourages you to visualize your putt, making it easier to align your body and putter face
Speed control is another crucial aspect of putting, and practicing with different lengths of putts can help you master it For this, place three balls in a straight line, each progressively further from the hole Putt each ball, focusing on the speed and rhythm needed to get the ball within a few feet of the hole By practicing with varying speeds, you'll better understand how far to hit each putt, making it easier to judge your distance during a round.
Lastly, don’t forget to practice under pressure The next time you’re on the green, set a mini challenge for yourself, like making five consecutive putts from a specific distance. If you miss one, start over. This challenge helps simulate the pressure of a real game and improves your mental toughness
With consistent practice using these simple routines, you’ll develop a better feel and accuracy on the greens, ultimately leading to lower scores and greater confidence