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Lag putting is a crucial skill in golf that can significantly lower your scores. It involves accurately judging the distance to leave yourself an easy putt on the next shot. Improving your lag putting can help you avoid three-putts and boost your confidence on the greens.
Understanding Lag Putting
Lag putting focuses on controlling distance rather than aiming for the hole. The goal is to get the ball close enough so that the next putt is simple and manageable. Mastering this skill requires good judgment, consistent stroke, and proper green reading.
Tips to Improve Your Lag Putting
- Practice Distance Control: Use drills that focus on hitting specific distances, such as putting to markers at 20, 30, or 40 feet.
- Use Your Shoulders: Keep your arms steady and use your shoulders to control the stroke for better consistency.
- Read the Green Carefully: Pay attention to slopes and grain that can affect the ball’s roll.
- Maintain a Smooth Stroke: Avoid jerky movements; a smooth, pendulum-like stroke helps with accuracy.
- Visualize Your Target: Pick a spot just past the hole or a specific point to aim at for better focus.
Practice Drills for Lag Putting
Consistent practice is key to improving lag putting. Try these drills:
- Target Distance Drill: Place markers at various distances and try to hit them consistently.
- Circle Drill: Set up a circle of balls around the hole at different distances and aim to sink as many as possible.
- Three-Point Drill: Pick three spots at different distances and practice controlling your putts to land close to each.
Conclusion
Improving your lag putting takes patience and deliberate practice. Focus on distance control, green reading, and consistent stroke mechanics. With time, you’ll find yourself leaving shorter, more accurate putts and lowering your scores on the course.