By Paul Mindel

Depending on your skill level and what survey you believe, putting represents between 39 and 51% of all strokes taken on a golf course. When it comes to practicing putting, the average golfer spends less than 4% of their time working on it. This is the first reason why golfers never improve that skill.

The second reason people struggle with putting is because they try to do too much at one time. Putting involves two separate skills. Of course, the first skill is the ability to stroke and roll the ball consistently. The second skill is the ability to read a green and determine the amount of break. A golfer who is trying to work on both will become frustrated at the lack of success (making putts). This frustration will lead to lack of confidence and the player will begin trying the next hottest craze.

The plan I would suggest would involve developing a consistent stroke first and then focus on understanding greens. Five keys to successful putting include:

STABLE LEGS: When a golfer keeps their legs stable and still, the stroke will be more consistent. I suggest keeping your feet at least as wide as your shoulders. The wider base will provide an added level of stability.

GRIP THE CLUB IN YOUR PALM: During the entire stroke, your wrists remain firm by gripping the club in the palm (not the fingers). Think of your lifeline as your palm and your wrists will remain solid.

CONSISTENT BALL PLACEMENT: Most players are very inconsistent with regard to their ball placement. I suggest keeping the ball one inch forward of center. Create a habit which will improve consistency.

LENGTH OF STROKE: The length of the backswing will determine how far the ball will roll. ALWAYS keep your tempo going back smooth and slow. Characteristics of a green will determine how far a ball will roll. Your follow through should ALWAYS be longer then the backswing. Just remember, “Short to Long.”

KEEP YOUR HEAD STILL: Keep your head still for at least 3 feet of roll. If the head remains still the path of the club will be straighter which helps to roll the ball on line.

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION: I recognize change is difficult and it takes time to implement. If you want to improve your putting I suggest putting with your lead (left for right hand golfers) hand low. It has taken effort on my part and I feel the improvement has been worth it. Lead hand low will help solidify your wrists and I feel will result in a true “shoulder putt pendulum” stoke. If you do make this change it will be necessary to move the ball forward in your stance. I suggest in line with the front heel. Please contact me if I can be of any further assistance and have a great 2011 season.