How to Handle Fast Greens in Golf

One of the biggest challenges in golf is playing on fast greens. Fast greens can be intimidating, but with the right approach and technique, you can improve your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you handle fast greens:

• Adapt your putting stroke: The key to putting on fast greens is having a smooth and controlled putting stroke. It's important to avoid hitting the ball too hard or jerking the putter. Instead, focus on a smoother and more controlled stroke to maintain accuracy.
• Read the greens: Understanding the slope and break of the greens is crucial in navigating fast greens. Take your time to read the greens before making your putts. Look for any subtle changes in the contour of the green and use that information to plan your shot.
• Practice speed control: To handle fast greens effectively, you need to have good speed control. Spend some time practicing your speed control by hitting putts of varying distances. Pay attention to the pace and distance the ball rolls. This will help you get a better feel for the speed of the greens.
• Manage your expectations: It's important to understand that even the best golfers struggle on fast greens. Accept that you may not make every putt and that it's okay to have a few lipped-out putts. Maintaining a positive attitude and managing your expectations will help you stay focused and perform better.
• Use the right putter: Some putters are better suited for fast greens. A putter with a heavier head can help you feel the weight of the putter and control your stroke better. Experiment with different putters to find one that gives you more confidence on fast greens.
• Adjust your aim: On fast greens, you may need to adjust your aim slightly to compensate for the increased speed. Aim for a spot just above the target to allow for the ball to roll out and still reach the hole. This adjustment will help you better gauge the speed and break of the greens.
• Control your breathing: Fast greens can make even the calmest golfer feel anxious. One way to manage your nerves is by controlling your breathing. Take deep breaths and exhale slowly before taking your putt. This will help you stay relaxed and maintain a steady stroke.
• Stay patient: It's easy to get frustrated and rush your putts on fast greens. However, patience is key. Take your time to line up your putts and trust your instincts. Avoid rushing through your routine and be confident in your abilities to read the greens and execute your putt.

Remember, handling fast greens requires practice and experience. The more you play on fast greens, the better you will become at adapting to their speed and nuances. Stay focused, keep practicing, and soon enough, you'll be a pro at handling fast greens!