10 important keys for mastering lag putting

Rolling your first putt within tap-in range is a hugely important skill. If you can eliminate those pesky three-putts, you’re sure to see your scores drop.

The frequency of three-putts is one of the biggest differentiators between handicap groups. So if you’re serious about lowering your handicap, becoming a better lag putter is a great place to start.

Below are 10 keys for improving your lag putting.

1. Focus on technique

As with most elements in golf, technique when lag putting is hugely important. Make sure you’ve got a good setup position and a grip that will deliver a square clubface to the ball. It’s also key that you have a stroke path that is neutral and repeatable.

2. A solid grip

There are numerous different effective putting grips out there, but the key is choosing the one that works best for you. And don’t be afraid to experiment, either. If one grip isn’t working, try something a little different. Before long, you’ll find something that is consistent, comfortable and repeatable.

3. Eliminate the yips

If you suffer from an uncontrollable flinch near impact — the yips — you must work to correct the issue. First identify which hand is causing the yippy stroke. From there you can alter your technique to improve the issue.

4. Look at the face

Speed is the most important part of lag putting, but don’t forget to take a look at your face angle as this will determine the aim of your putt. There are plenty of training aids that can assist you in improving here, such as the putting mirror linked below.

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Perfect Roll Mirror The Perfect Roll Mirror is a compact, low-profile putting mirror that helps you improve your putting stroke. It is just 1/8″ thick, so your putter head and stroke are not elevated as with some other mirrors. The mirror measures 6″ wide x 12″ long, so it is easy to store in your golf bag and take with you to the practice green. The Perfect Roll Mirror has a beveled entry port that makes it easy to roll a ball to the same fixed location every time. This helps you develop consistent setup and stroke mechanics that will lead to more made putts. The mirror also includes tee holes that can be used to secure it to the putting green if desired. These holes can also be used as stroke guides for putters with a 5 ½” head or smaller. White and green lines on the mirror provide additional feedback on your stroke path and the squareness of your putter face. These lines complement the TrueSquare™ slots through the impact zone, which help you ensure that you are making square contact with the ball. The Perfect Roll Mirror is a portable and functional training mirror that is perfect for improving your putting stroke. Order yours today and start making more putts! Here are some additional benefits of using the Perfect Roll Mirror: Helps you develop a consistent putting stroke Improves your stroke path Ensures that you are making square contact with the ball Reduces common putting mistakes Makes you more confident on the green If you are serious about improving your putting stroke, the Perfect Roll Mirror is the perfect training aid for you. Order yours today and start seeing results!

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5. Eliminate extra movement

To truly master distance control you need to eliminate any extra movement during your putting stroke. Work to make sure you are keeping your head still and have proper weight distribution during the stroke.

6. Backstroke is key

The length of your backstroke will determine the distance your ball rolls, so focus on how far you are taking the putterhead back. Don’t change the power on your stroke, merely change the length of your backstroke.

7. Rhythm is crucial

Keeping a smooth rhythm in your stroke is crucial as well. Practice keeping things even and smooth to generate the best results.

Drills to try

Below are some of my favorite drills for practicing lag putting.

8. Three-foot increment drill

Place some balls on the practice green and set them up three feet apart getting further and further from the hole. The goal for every putt should be for it to settle within tap-in distance of the hole. After a while, you’ll know exactly how large a stroke you need for every distance.

9. Uphill/downhill drill

Your stroke size will need to change to account for hills as well. Go back and forth between uphill putts and downhill putts and make note of how the severity of the slope changes the size of your stroke.

10. Work on different green speeds

Each course you play will have different green speeds, so you’ll constantly need to be calibrating your speed. Make sure you are dialing in your speed before every round to make sure you’re giving yourself the best chance for success on each different course.

Golf.com