The Perfect Putting Setup
In many ways the putting stroke is a mini version of a full swing. Therefore, the address position is again the first stage for developing consistent positive technique. An excellent solid setup position will create a foundation for a repeating stroke. This will give the best chance for consistently striking the ball and making it run true and straight.
After you have attained a good setup position you must have your eyes over the ball. It does not matter about your height, build, or personal style -- you must have your eyes over the ball. You need to be able to turn your head to allow for a direct view down the line of the putt to the hole. You must not need to move your shoulders out of alignment to accomplish this view.
To check to see that your eyes are correctly positioned over the ball is a simple process. Assume a normal putting posture and then drop the golf ball from the bridge of your nose. The location where the ball lands will mark the ideal ball position so take note or place a marker.
Keep in mind that it is important first to find your comfortable stance and then to work the ball position into your stance, not the other way around. With the exception of the movement of your head, the alignment and body posture will remain the same as the hole is viewed.
The golf ball should be placed forward in the stance; the ideal position is just opposite the left heel. This ball position will help you ensure that the putter will meet the ball slightly on the upward stroke. Your hands need to be over the ball, or at the very least slightly ahead of it, and the putter face must be squared to the line.
The wrists must remain firm with a left wrist locked into position through the hitting zone. Accelerate the head of the putter through to the hole making sure the follow through is the same length as the backswing. With a smooth acceleration of the putter into the back of the ball each hand should apply an equal amount of grip pressure. Assuming the ball position is correct, the pendulum action will cause the ball to be struck slightly on the upstroke.
The most consistent and efficient method of putting is the pendulum stroke. The weight of the putter head creates the momentum for the swing. The body must be trained so as to produce a perfect pendulum motion time after time.
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