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!!