Pre-round routine with Grant Field.
For golfers aiming to improve their game, a structured pre-round routine can make all the difference. Renowned golf coach Grant Field recently shared his approach to pre-round preparation, focusing on alignment, feedback and the use of Back 2 Basics Golf training tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to his methodology, designed to help golfers of all levels fine-tune their putting and build confidence before every round.
Step 1: Start with Alignment
Field emphasises the importance of starting with alignment-based drills. “All good players begin their sessions with alignment work,” he explains. Using the Pro Path Putting Mirror, golfers can ensure their eye and shoulder alignment is on point. Begin by setting up the mirror approximately eight to 10 feet from the hole, slightly off-centre, to simulate real-course conditions with a subtle break.
Place tees in the mirror’s designated slots to frame the putter’s path. As Field notes, this setup provides immediate feedback: “When the path is online, the ball starts where you want it to.”
Step 2: Add Path Feedback
Next, introduce tees around the putter’s path to create a channel that guides your stroke. This setup helps correct tendencies, such as taking the putter too far inside or outside the ideal path. As Field describes, “When the putter moves too far outside, it will hit the tees, giving instant feedback to adjust your stroke.”
Step 3: Introduce Speed Control and Feedback
To further refine the warm-up, incorporate Ghost Holes. These simulate hole locations and provide insight into the pace of your putts. Start by aiming at the edge of the hole with a slight break and monitor how far past the hole the ball rolls.
“The goal is to get the ball starting on the right line and entering the hole with the correct pace. If you miss, the feedback helps you adjust quickly,” Field says.
Step 4: Enhance Visual Alignment with a String Line
The final step in Field’s routine is the String Line, a tool that visually reinforces the ball’s starting line. Attach the string line above the intended path, ensuring it cuts through the centre of the ball. “This helps check whether your eyes are correctly positioned over the ball,” Field says.
Building Confidence Through Repetition
By combining alignment checks, path feedback and speed control, this routine ensures every putt starts with purpose and precision. “You’re not just warming up your stroke but also building patterns you can rely on during your round,” Field emphasises.
Whether you’re a tour pro or a weekend golfer, adopting these techniques can dramatically improve your consistency and confidence on the greens. With tools like the Pro Path Putting Mirror, Ghost Holes and String Line, you’ll develop a pre-round routine that mirrors the approach of the best players in the world.
For more info: back2basicsgolf.com
