The Art of Putting: Mastering the Stroke
The Art of Putting.
When it comes to golf, the old adage "drive for show, putt for dough" rings particularly true. A successful putt can be both the simplest and the most complex of golf strokes to master. The golfer in the provided photo is demonstrating a traditional putting stroke, one that has been the foundation of many champions' successes.
Stance and Grip
The foundation of a good putting stroke begins with a comfortable stance. The golfer's feet are shoulder-width apart, providing a stable base. His eyes are directly over the ball, ensuring that his perspective is aligned with the putt's intended line. Notice the light grip on the putter, reminiscent of holding a bird without letting it fly away or squeezing it too tight—a balance that promotes both gentleness and control.
The Stroke
The traditional putting stroke is a pendulum motion, smooth and without a wrist hinge. The shoulders are the engine of this movement. The golfer's arms, shoulders, and putter head move as one unit. As you can see, the backswing is short; the forward stroke will be similarly succinct, ensuring a controlled and measured impact.
Aiming and Ball Position
Aiming is pivotal. Our golfer has chosen his line carefully, considering the break and speed of the green. The ball is positioned slightly forward of center in his stance, aligning with the inside of the left heel (for a right-handed golfer). This allows for the putter to make contact with the ball at the slight upswing, promoting a true roll.
Impact and Follow-Through
Impact is the moment of truth. The putter face must be square to the intended line at impact for the ball to roll true. The golfer's head and body remain still, with eyes fixated on the spot where the ball was, even after it has been struck—a discipline that promotes consistency and accuracy.
The Finish
The finish of the putt is held briefly, pointing down the line to ensure that the motion was in the correct direction. This also helps in understanding and learning from each putt, making adjustments as necessary.
The Mental Game
Putting is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Confidence is key. There is no room for doubt when the putter is swung. The golfer in the photo exudes calm and focus, essentials for a successful putt.
In conclusion, the traditional putting stroke is a synergy of precision, focus, and fluidity. From the moment the golfer addresses the ball to the follow-through, each component of the putt is vital. It’s a ballet of sorts, and when executed correctly, it can turn a challenging green into a conquered foe.
Remember, putting is a unique dance, and the greens are your stage. With practice, patience, and persistence, the art of putting can be mastered, turning what once was a weakness into one of the strongest parts of your game.
