The best way to improve speed control on the greens while also replicating real-time pressure is the ladder drill. For you practice-haters, this drill is as fun as it is effective. Start by placing an alignment stick one pace (about three feet) behind the hole. From the cup, walk in the opposite direction of the stick and drop a ball with every step, leaving one ball at roughly 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 feet from the hole. Next, roll each putt, starting with the three-footer.
The objective is to hole the putt — which counts as a birdie — or stop it between the cup and the stick in the event of a miss, which counts as a par. If you leave the putt short or if the ball makes contact with the stick — sorry, mate, that’s a bogey. Your goal is to shoot at least 1-under for five balls. For even more of a challenge and to truly re-create on-course pressure, drop a ball every two paces. Good luck with that 30-footer at the end!
As your numbers improve, so will your ability to dial-in the proper pace from any distance. Don’t forget to send your scores to us at meandmygolf.com.
