Mastering the Art of Speed Control in Putting: A Starting Guide

Are you struggling to find the right balance in your putting strokes? Do you find it challenging to control the speed of your putts consistently? Speed control is a common hurdle for amateur and beginning golfers but fear not—we have some valuable tips to help you enhance your putting game and minimize those three putts.

1. Perfect Your Stroke Length One of the primary issues is that many amateurs and beginners tend to make too long of a stroke, resulting in putts that go too far beyond the intended distance. To counter this, they overcorrect and then leave subsequent putts short. I feel they have a hard time believing the putt will roll as far as they do on a given stroke sometimes and think they have to swing harder than necessary.

2. Visualize Your Putt and Set a Pace Feed your brain, the computer controlling all this, with as much information as possible to optimize your speed control. Before addressing the ball, walk to the side of your putt and mentally trace the line from the ball to the hole at the pace you believe the ball needs to roll to reach the hole. Adjust your pace slightly, considering the terrain—faster for uphill putts and slower for downhill putts. By visualizing and setting a pace, you're providing your brain with a clear blueprint for the putt.

3. Trust Your Instincts Some golfers prefer taking practice strokes to gauge the speed and distance. Others, however, rely on their instincts and the mental blueprint they've created. Trusting your instincts and allowing your subconscious to take over and execute the putt is something I'd suggest trying if you haven't. My lag putting improved once I stopped taking practice strokes and just made my first stroke the real stroke based on the information, I'd acquired tracing out the putt.

4. Achieve Consistent Contact with the Putter face Achieving a consistent and clean strike on the ball is crucial for controlling the roll of the ball. Pay attention to the contact with the putter face to the ball to ensure a smooth and predictable roll. Aim to keep the putter face square to the target for at least two inches beyond the strike, allowing for a more accurate roll of the ball.

5. Getting the Ball Rolling End over End Consider the concept of an ascending path, much like a plane taking off. When striking the ball, aim for a slightly ascending path with your putter. This approach can help in achieving a smoother roll and better control of the ball's speed. The ball will also hold it's line better with a good tight end over end roll. Experiment with this technique during your practice sessions to find the perfect balance that suits your putting style.

By integrating these FUNdamental tips and techniques into your putting routine, you'll gradually improve your speed control and minimize the dreaded three putts. Practice diligently, remain patient, and watch your putting game elevate to new heights. Happy putting!