How to Eliminate Pushed or Pulled Putts in Golf

One of the most frustrating things for golfers is consistently pushing or pulling putts. These errant shots can really add strokes to your scorecard and make a round of golf feel like an uphill battle. However, with some practice and a few adjustments to your technique, you can eliminate pushed or pulled putts from your game.

• 1. Align your body properly: Correct alignment is crucial in putting. Make sure your feet, hips, and shoulders are aligned parallel to the target line. Use a club or alignment stick to help you check your alignment.
• 2. Develop a proper grip: Your grip should be relaxed, with the palms facing each other and the putter grip running diagonally across the fingers. Avoid gripping the putter too tightly, as it can restrict your stroke and cause pushing or pulling of the ball.
• 3. Maintain a steady head position: Keep your head still throughout the putting stroke. Moving your head can alter your eye position and lead to misalignment.
• 4. Use your shoulders, not your hands: Focus on utilizing your shoulders to control the putter movement. Let your arms, hands, and wrists remain passive. This will help you maintain a consistent stroke and prevent pushes or pulls.
• 5. Practice distance control: Often, pushed or pulled putts result from misjudging the distance. Spend time practicing distance control by hitting putts to different targets and analyzing the results. This will help you develop a better feel for the speed and distance of your putts.
• 6. Maintain a gentle tempo: A smooth and rhythmic putting stroke is essential for accuracy. Avoid rushing your stroke or decelerating through impact, as both can lead to pushed or pulled putts.
• 7. Train your eyes: Improving your eye coordination can significantly reduce pushed or pulled putts. Use alignment aids or visualize a straight line between your ball and the hole to help train your eyes to see the correct path.
• 8. Manage your pre-putt routine: Develop a consistent pre-putt routine that helps you focus and visualize the intended line and speed of your putt. This can help eliminate any mental distractions that may contribute to pushed or pulled putts.

Remember, eliminating pushed or pulled putts requires patience and practice. Incorporate these tips into your training sessions and spend dedicated time on the putting green to refine your technique. Additionally, consider seeking guidance from a golf instructor who can provide personalized feedback and further help you eliminate this common problem.

By implementing these adjustments and practicing diligently, you'll improve your putting accuracy and gain confidence in your stroke. Soon, you'll see a noticeable reduction in pushed or pulled putts and enjoy lower scores on the golf course.