Putting · Lesson
Build a Solid Putting Setup and Routine
Part of our putting programs for start line. Build a program with it
Good putting starts with simple basics. Get your eyes over the ball. Keep your shoulders level and square. Use a grip that quiets your hands. Then rock your arms and shoulders like a pendulum. Check it all in a mirror. Keep your head still. For aim, pick a spot on your line a few feet ahead. Square the face to it first, then set your feet. And spend some practice time on technique alone, without worrying about makes.
Step by step
- Check your setup in a mirror.
- Pick a spot a few feet ahead.
- Aim the face first, then set your feet.
- Keep your head still.
- Practice technique without chasing results.
Why it works
Eyes over the ball and level, square shoulders let the putter swing on a stable arc toward your start line. A quiet grip keeps the wrists out of the stroke, so the arms and shoulders rock like a pendulum and the face stays square through impact. Aiming at a spot a few feet ahead is easier to judge than a distant hole, and setting the face before the feet keeps your aim from being pulled off by your stance.
Common mistakes
- Standing with your eyes inside or beyond the ball, which makes you misjudge the line.Hold a ball at the bridge of your nose, drop it, and adjust your posture until it lands on or just inside your ball.
- Setting your feet first and then aiming the putter to match them.Square the face to your spot first, then place your feet and shoulders parallel to that line.
- Letting the head turn or the hands flick during the stroke.Keep your eyes pointed down until the ball is gone, and let the arms and shoulders move the putter while the grip stays quiet.
How you'll know it's working
- In the mirror, your eyes are over the ball and your shoulders look level and square to the line.
- The ball starts on your chosen spot and rolls end over end without wobbling.
- Your head stays still through the stroke and you feel the motion in your arms and shoulders, not your wrists.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: Use a short, flat putt and keep the mirror in front of you so you can check your setup after every stroke.
Harder: Move to longer putts or sloped putts, and run your full routine each time without using the mirror.
Common questions
Where should my eyes be when putting?
Your eyes should be over the ball or just inside it. This lets you look straight down the target line and swing the putter on a stable path.
How do I aim my putter more accurately?
Pick a spot a few feet ahead on your line and square the putter face to it. Then set your feet and shoulders parallel to that line.
