Putting would be easier if every putt you faced was the same length. But during the course of any round, you need to manage all kinds of distances: short putts, mid-rangers, long-rangers and, of course, lengthy lags. So, in addition to getting a good read on how the putt will break, it’s critical to know how to adjust your stroke to power the ball the correct distance. Unless you’re an experienced golfer, your only hope is guessing.
When I ask my rec students how they adjust their strokes to roll the ball various lengths, they invariably reply, “by changing the speed of my stroke.” This is why they never get close. A fundamental fact is that the speed of your stroke naturally changes based upon the length of the backstroke. Shorter putts mandate shorter backstrokes and longer putts require longer backstrokes. Everything else stays the same. It’s that easy.
The question begs, then, “How long a backstroke should I make?” Here’s an easy way to find out.
On any putt, stand next to the ball and simply walk toward the cup. Count how many steps you need to reach the hole. (One step should equal approximately three feet.) Now, some simple math: Add one inch of backstroke length for every step you take. For example, if it takes you five paces to reach the hole, then plan on making a backstroke five inches in length (with slight adjustments if the putt is uphill or downhill or if the green is running fast or slow).
As you swing your putter, avoid the urge to add speed — great putters complete their backstroke, then simply let the putter fall to the ball. You may not always sink the putt with this technique, but you’ll always be near the hole, regardless of length.
Kellie Stenzel is a GOLF Top 100 Teacher who teaches at the Palm Beach Par 3 and The Boca Raton in Fla.
