Lag putting can make or break your performance on the greens. It’s not just about putting the ball; it’s about mastering distance control to leave yourself an easy tap-in. Here’s how to improve your lag putting skills, with techniques and tips that can help you get the most out of your practice sessions.
Understanding Lag Putting
Lag putting is all about accuracy from a distance, especially when you’re outside of the range where you’re confident making the putt. The goal is to get the ball as close to the hole as possible without leaving yourself a long second putt.
Why is Lag Putting Important?
Good lag putting can save you strokes and boost your confidence. Instead of worrying about missing long putts, you can focus on getting closer to the hole.
Techniques to Improve Lag Putting
Focus on Distance Control
Use your practice time to work on various distances. Set up markers and try to putt to them instead of just hitting to the hole.
Imagery and Visualization: Before putting, visualize where you want the ball to land and how it will roll toward the hole. This will help you develop a sense of distance.
Grip and Stance
Adopt a comfortable grip that allows for controlled swings. A light grip can help you feel the putter’s weight and improve touch.
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and maintain a slight bend in your knees. Ensure your eyes are directly over the ball for better alignment.
Drills for Practicing Lag Shots
The Clock Drill: Place tees in a circle around the hole at different distances. Practice lagging putts to each tee and work on making adjustments as needed.
The Ladder Drill: Set up 3-5 markers at increasing distances. Start with the closest and focus on distance control to land near the hole.
Mental Aspects of Lag Putting
Lag putting is as much mental as it is physical. Here are tips to help improve your mental game:
Stay Calm: Take deep breaths to calm your nerves, especially in pressure situations.
One Putt at a Time: Focus on the current putt. Don’t dwell on previous misses or future putts.
Final Tips
Practice with intention. Don’t just hit putts; make sure you’re focusing on your technique and distance control.
Always take note of the greens’ speed during your practice rounds. Different greens can significantly change your lag putting strategy.
With these techniques and drills, you’ll find your lag putting game improving in no time. Remember, practice is key, and developing a good feel for distance will turn lag putts into an advantage on the course. Happy putting!
Lag putting is critical in golf, helping players avoid long three-putts. It’s all about distance control rather than just sinking the ball. Focus on your speed and line, and you’ll notice improved scores!
To develop a good lag putting technique, practice with different lengths and slopes. It’s about rhythm and touch, much different from the precision needed for short putts.
Sure! Regular putting focuses more on making the shot, while lag putting prioritizes getting close to the hole for an easier second putt. It’s all about strategy!
Reflecting on everything shared, mastering lag putting not only lowers scores but also enhances overall enjoyment of the game. Let’s keep sharing and growing!
Great topic! Mastering lag putting is essential for lowering scores. One tip I found useful is practicing with a tee in front of the hole to gauge distance better.
One effective drill is the 3-foot ladder drill, where you place tees at varying distances and putt to each one. It helps with distance judgment and consistency.