How to hole all the short ones
Here’s an interesting stat for you: 10 players on the US PGA Tour made every putt from three feet and in last year. Ryan Palmer never missed in 829 attempts. A big reason these guys are automatic from this range is that they stick to a fundamentally sound routine. This gives them great confidence that the ball should go in. So if you want to make all the short ones, follow this four-step routine.
1. Mark It
Using a permanent marker, draw a dot on your golf ball. It needs to be big enough that you can easily see it when you get ready to putt.
2. Get Focused
Orient your marked ball on the green so the dot is at the top. When you stare down at the ball, narrow your focus so the only thing you’re aware of during the stroke is the dot. This will help you hit the ball solidly.
3. Shorten Up
Restrict your backstroke so the clubhead only moves a few inches away from the ball. This will encourage you to accelerate the putter on the through-stroke.
4. Listen For It
If you quickly move your head or shift your eyes to see if the putt’s going in, you’ll likely alter the the putterface, redirecting the ball. Instead, keep your head still and listen for the sweet sound of the ball rattling on the bottom of the cup.
– David Leadbetter operates 34 golf academies worldwide.
