As we enter a new season, I want you to embrace the idea of developing a putting routine.
Many golfers have a routine before their full swing. Maybe you take one practice swing, then get behind the ball to aim, step into the shot the same way each time then make two waggles and boom, the ball is in the air. However, when it comes to the short game, I see players doing all sorts of different things before chip shots or putts. Let’s streamline the routine for your short shots as well.
A routine, by definition is going to be the same sequence of actions performed before each shot. There are many merits to this.
- The routine acts as a checklist that you have gathered all the data you need in order to execute the shot.
- The routine prevents you from gathering extra data that you normally do not have and won’t know what to do with when you get it. This only adds confusion and uncertainty.
- The routine gets you physically prepared to execute the shot.
- The routine keeps things moving along and does not allow extra time for you to get more nervous by overthinking the importance of the shot at hand.
In the video below, Charlie Rymer and I talk about the importance and the key elements of a pre-shot routine for putting. Take a few minutes to learn more about this.
Here is a suggested pre-shot routine for your putting starting from right after you have decided on the starting line of your putt.
- From behind the ball make a few practice strokes while looking at the hole. Looking at the hole gets your focus on the length and rhythm of your stroke rather than looking at the putter and managing the mechanics of the stroke.
- Set the putter behind the ball so it is aimed down the target line.
- Step into the shot by aligning your body to the pre-set putter.
- Take two looks at the hole.
- The moment your eyes return to the ball after the second look at the target, get the stroke started.
Give it a try and then take the first few weeks of the season making it a habit. The more time you spend practicing it the faster it will become a consistent part of your game. The routine then becomes your security blanket that will allow you to execute successful strokes even under pressure.
