Golf - Beginner Basics V: Putting

"Drive for show, putt for dough" is the lesson we've all seen and learned from watching professional golfers in every tournament and championship.

The masters of golf can drive a ball from here to eternity, but it all boils down to how many strikes of the ball it takes to put the ball in the hole. The long accurate drives do not amount to anything if you're unable to putt accurately.

Choosing a putter is essential, but using whatever putter you've consistently is more so. I've had the same putter for fifteen years; I know what it feels like in my hand, I know its weight and how that plays into my putts.

Putting takes lots of practice. Typically, we drive the ball eighteen times in a game, but putt at least double that number. Does not it stand that we should practice our putting a minimum of twice as much as driving? If you can't get towards the practice green frequently, exercise on your carpet at house.

Keep in mind that no ball can make it into the hole if it doesn't have enough power behind the ball to obtain there. Take the time to obtain down and appear at the path from your ball towards the hole ;does it slant one way or the other? Is it uphill or downhill?

Stand with your feet spread for balance and line up the putt. Maintain you hands, arms and shoulders totally still; imagine that you are a "bobble head" but you move from just below your chest. Keep your head directly over the ball. Pull your club back; maintain your hands, wrists, arms and shoulders steady-the movement comes from your chest. Hit the ball, following it with your club.

Learn from each putt and remember the lesson. Practice, practice, practice!