Putting · Tip
Why Lead-Hand-Low Putting Can Help
Part of our putting programs for missing short putts, start line. Build a program with it
Lead-hand low just means your lead hand goes below your trail hand on the putter. Why try it? With a normal grip, many golfers let the trail hand take over. The face closes at impact and putts go left. Putting lead-hand low levels your shoulders. It helps keep your lead wrist flat through impact. That keeps the face square. If short putts are a struggle, give it a try.
Step by step
- Put your lead hand below your trail hand.
- Feel your shoulders level out.
- Keep your lead wrist flat.
- See if your pulls go away.
- Test it on short putts first.
Why it works
With a standard grip the trail hand sits lower, which tilts the trail shoulder down and encourages that hand to take over. The hand can then roll the face closed at impact, so the ball starts left. Putting lead-hand low places the lead hand lower, which levels your shoulders. It also keeps the lead wrist flat, so the back of the lead hand and the putter face move together toward the target.
Common mistakes
- You grip too tightly with the trail hand and it still takes over.Hold the putter lightly with the trail hand and let the lead hand guide the stroke.
- You let the lead wrist bend or break through impact.Keep the back of the lead hand facing the target and finish with the wrist flat.
- You move to a new grip but leave the ball position and posture the same, so the shoulders still tilt.Check that your shoulders are level at address and set the ball slightly forward of center.
How you'll know it's working
- Your short putts start on your intended line instead of left of it.
- The face feels square at impact and the strike is solid in the center of the face.
- Your lead wrist stays flat and your shoulders stay level through the stroke.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: Start with straight putts from about three feet and use a gate of two tees just wider than the putter head to guide the stroke.
Harder: Move to longer putts and slight breaks while keeping the lead wrist flat and the start line square.
Common questions
Does lead-hand-low putting work for everyone?
No. It helps many golfers who pull putts, but some prefer the feel of a standard grip. Try it on short putts and keep it only if your start line improves.
Why do I pull putts left?
For a right-hander, a pull often comes from the face closing at impact, usually because the trail hand takes over. An open stance or a path that cuts across the line can also cause it.
