Follow these 5 steps to develop the perfect putting routine

I recently gave a lesson to a solid player who was struggling to score due to lackluster putting. Interestingly, her technique was pretty good and had nothing to do with her struggles.

The reason she could not make putts consistently was a poor routine. So, we worked together to develop a routine to help her become a better putter.

Below are five steps to take to develop the perfect putting routine.

1. Assess the situation

Your putting routine should start as you approach the green. Look for clues as to how the green tilts and where the high and low points are. When you get to your ball, take note of whether the putt is uphill or downhill, and which direction it is going to break. Make all of these calculations before you step up to the ball so that all you need to do is step up and hit it when the time comes. If you struggle with green reading, you can try using a green map from GolfLogix. You can get 50 percent off their green books with a subscription to InsideGOLF.

2. Make a practice stroke

When making your practice stroke, it should be realistic in size and rhythm to what you will do when you stand over the ball. Some players will look at the hole when making their practice stroke to get a feel for the correct distance. Whatever you do, just make sure that you’re comfortable.

3. Aim the putter

Now it’s time to step up to the ball. When you do, you’ll want to make sure your putterface is aimed down your target line. Once you find that spot, do not move the putter head again. If you want to work on this on the practice green, consider using a putting mirror or other training aid to teach yourself.

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4. Build your setup around the face

After getting the putterhead aimed properly, you can begin building the rest of your setup. Put your hands on the grip so that the putter will not twist during the stroke, and take your stance so that your feet are aimed properly. No matter what you do, though, don’t move the putterhead.

5. Stay still

All great putters are extremely quiet when they putt. What I mean by this is that they do not have much unnecessary movement in their bodies when they are in their putting stroke. Excessive movement makes it difficult to control distance and direction. Watch good putters and see how still they are at their finish — copy this!