Decades ago, pro golfers used a wristy, popping action when putting to get the ball rolling on slow, bumpy greens. Modern maintenance equipment makes for smoother putting surfaces – which call for a stroke to match.

Golf teachers advocate a putting motion controlled by the arms and shoulders, as opposed to the wrists and hands. Too much small-muscle involvement leads to inconsistent contact and putts that skitter past the cup.

The “one-arm putting drill” is a great practice aid for smoothing out your stroke. Start by hitting a series of short putts (3 feet or so) with only your right arm. Once you’ve got a feel for the stroke, move a few feet farther away, and continue until you’re at least 15 feet from the hole.

Repeat the process with the left arm.

Using just one arm makes it difficult to involve the wrist, encouraging the arm and shoulder to engage and work in tandem. The goal is a pendulum-like motion without interference from the hands. This one-arm putting drill also improves feel and touch.

Become adept at hitting solid, one-handed putts and the two-handed variety will be a breeze.

Thomas Golf Putters
Traditional, Mid-Length/Belly & Long Putters