PGA-Level Driver, Mini-Golf Level Putting? Here's the Solution!

very golfer has faced this dilemma at least once. The tee shot flies perfectly down the fairway, but once on the green, putting feels more like a mini-golf challenge. If your driver shot is as powerful and precise as a pro’s, yet your putting is full of mistakes, it's time to find a solution.

1. Practice Putting Like You Practice Driving

Most golfers dedicate a lot of time to their driver swing but tend to neglect putting practice. However, putting accounts for over 40% of your total score. Professional players spend at least 30 minutes a day practicing putting. Simply incorporating putting practice into your routine can lead to a more stable stroke.

Practice Tips:

• Repeat putts from 1m, 2m, and 3m distances until you successfully make ten in a row.

• Use a putting marker or guide lines to ensure proper alignment.

• Practice long putts from various distances to develop better distance control.

2. Utilize Golf Ball Alignment

One of the main reasons putting is inconsistent is improper aim. Many professional golfers draw alignment lines on their golf balls to help with their setup and accuracy.

Solution:

• Use golf balls with alignment aids: For example, balls with a triple-track design make it much easier to aim accurately.

• Use alignment tools: A tool like 'Birdie Black' allows you to add sharp, visible lines to your ball, improving accuracy and alignment in putting.

3. Maintain a Consistent Stroke

An inconsistent putting stroke leads to poor distance control and misdirection. The key is to balance your backswing and follow-through. Practicing with a steady rhythm helps achieve this.

Practice Methods:

• Use a metronome app to maintain a consistent stroke tempo.

• Keep your wrists firm and use your arms and shoulders to make the stroke.

• Ensure the clubface remains square at impact to prevent misalignment.

4. Train Your Distance Control

Poor distance control leads to frequent three-putts. To improve this, visual feedback and repeated practice are essential.

Distance Control Drills:

• Aim to roll the ball 30cm past the hole during practice to ensure confident strokes.

• Use an indoor putting mat to work on distance feel at home.

• Before stroking the ball, visualize the stopping point to develop better feel and control.

5. Develop a Personal Putting Routine

Professional golfers stick to a strict pre-putting routine. Repeating the same pattern before every putt helps maintain consistency under pressure.

Example Routine:

1. Check the ball’s alignment.

2. Visualize the target point and simulate the distance in your mind.

3. Take two to three practice strokes to feel the motion.

4. Take a deep breath and commit to the putt.

Conclusion

No matter how good your driver shots are, you can’t score well without solid putting. On the other hand, improving your putting skills will significantly lower your total score. By consistently practicing the techniques outlined above, you can match your PGA-level driving with equally strong putting skills.

Take the first step toward improving your score—start practicing now!