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The difference between an average round and a great one often comes down to putting. While PGA Tour pros average around 30 putts per round and sink nearly 90% of their putts from 4-5 feet, amateur golfers typically take 32-40 putts and make only about 50% from the same distance. For a 13-handicap golfer shooting 85, putting accounts for a striking 42% of all shots taken.
Yet most amateur golfers spend the majority of their practice time hitting drivers and irons at the range. The solution? Strategic use of putting training aids can help you maximize limited practice time and quickly improve your performance on the greens.
Why Training Aids Matter
Training aids provide immediate feedback on the fundamental elements of putting:
- Face angle at impact
- Stroke path
- Eye position over the ball
- Shoulder and foot alignment
- Follow-through consistency
With proper training aids, you can make significant improvements in just 10-15 minutes per practice session. Here's how to select and use putting training aids effectively:
Choosing the Right Training Aids
Essential Features
Your training aid should provide clear feedback on:
- Putter face alignment at address and impact
- Stroke path throughout the motion
- Eye position relative to the ball
- Body alignment (shoulders, feet, hips)
- Follow-through position and path
Selection Criteria
When evaluating training aids, consider these factors:
Portability and Convenience
Choose compact, easily transportable devices that you'll actually use. The best training aid is one you'll practice with consistently, whether at home, office, or on the practice green.
Feedback Mechanisms
Look for aids that use proven feedback tools:
- Alignment mirrors for setup position
- Guide rails for stroke path
- Laser guides for face angle
- Impact markers for strike point
- Reference lines for path visualization
Full Stroke Monitoring
Ensure the aid provides feedback on your entire putting stroke, from takeaway through follow-through. Many golfers focus only on impact, but consistency requires proper technique throughout the motion.
Implementation Strategies
Practice Routine
- Use your training aid during every practice session
- Start with short putts (3-4 feet) to groove the stroke
- Gradually increase distance while maintaining proper form
- Practice both straight and breaking putts
- Finish each session with putts without the training aid
Quick Eye Alignment Check
Try this simple technique during practice:
- Address the ball as you normally would
- Hold a second ball between your eyes
- Drop it straight down
- The ball should land directly above your target ball
- Adjust your position if needed
Keys to Success
- Consistency: Use your training aids regularly, even if only for short sessions
- Focus: When practicing, give full attention to the feedback from your training aid
- Progression: Start with basic stroke mechanics before moving to more complex drills
- Transfer: Regularly alternate between using the training aid and putting without it
- Patience: Allow time for new movement patterns to become natural
Remember, the goal of training aids is to ingrain proper technique until it becomes automatic. With dedicated practice and the right tools, you can significantly improve your putting performance and lower your scores.
Good luck on the greens!
Paul
PS. Don't forget to grab your 151 Ways to Master Your Putting Stroke!!
