One of the best ways to practice putting is by using a long putter. Here’s why

You may have noticed that more and more tour pros are wielding broomstick putters these days. But this equipment trend isn’t just helping golf’s elite players sink clutch putts. These super long putters can also help players like you develop a smooth, reliable stroke.

According to GOLF Top 100 Alumni Scott Munroe, the broomstick putter is more than just a reliable gamer — it’s also an effective training aid. The reason it’s such a powerful tool, Munroe says, is that it eliminates the hands from the stroke.

“What it does is it gets you rocking your shoulders, taking your hands out [of the movement],” Munroe said. “It’s a great way to calibrate your distances and get used to seeing the ball rolling perfectly.” 

The key is the extended shaft. Because broomstick putters have a higher rotation point on the body, they naturally encourage you to move the putter with your larger muscles — rather than the small, twitchy muscles in your hands and wrists. This results in a more pendulum-like stroke that’s consistent and far less susceptible to nerves.

Tuck your elbows to mimic that broomstick feel

Don’t have access to a broomstick putter? Don’t worry. Munroe says there’s an easy way to recreate the feel and effect of a broomstick putter:

Step 1. Set your hands: Place your hands on the club with your fingers underneath the grip.

Step 2. Create a pentagon: Raise the putter out in front of you. This should cause your arms to form a pentagon. 

Step 3. Tuck your elbows: Pull your elbows in so they are touching your torso.

Now, place the putter back down on the ground and get set up like you’re going to hit a putt. Starting with rehearsal swings, begin moving the club back and through, focusing on using your larger muscles.

“What you’re doing is recreating the long putter,” he said. “From this position, all you do is rock your shoulders. That’s going to help you putt really well.”

Once you feel comfortable with this pendulum-like motion, you can start incorporating a ball into your practice. Pay attention to how the ball rolls as you use Munroe’s drill. If you’re doing it right and using those bigger muscles, the ball should roll end-over-end every time.

Even if you’ve never considered adding one to your bag, practicing with a broomstick putter — or mimicking it with Munroe’s elbow drill — could be the key to unlocking better mechanics and getting your putts rolling true, especially under pressure.

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