Putting is often the most important part of a golfer’s game, and regular practice can really help you lower your score. You can improve your putting technique, learn how to control your distance better, and finally make more putts with the right golf putting drills. Here are some good drills that will help you improve your putting.
The Drill for the Gate
The Gate Drill is a great way to work on the path and alignment of your putting stroke. To set it up, put two tees about a foot in front of the ball, just outside the width of your putter head. This will make a “gate.” The goal is to make a smooth, straight-back and straight-through stroke that doesn’t hit the tees. This drill helps you make your putting stroke more consistent and keeps your putter on the right path.
The Drill of the Clock

The Clock Drill is a great way for golfers to work on their distance control and consistency from different angles. Place six balls around the hole at 3, 6, 9, and 12 feet. Put each ball in the hole, trying to hit them all the same distance, and make each putt. As you get better, make it harder by moving the balls farther away. This drill will help you learn how to read greens, judge distance, and control how fast you putt.
The 3-3-3 Exercise
The 3-3-3 Drill is great for improving your short-range accuracy. Put three balls at three feet, three balls at six feet, and three balls at nine feet, all around the hole. The goal is to make every putt without missing. This drill will help you get better at putting by helping you stay focused and consistent when you have to make short putts from different distances.
The Distance Control Exercise
When putting, especially on longer greens, it’s important to control your distance. Put three balls 10, 20, and 30 feet from the hole to practice this skill. Put each ball in the hole without going too far or not far enough. This drill helps you get a better feel for how to control the speed of your putts, which is important for making more long-range putts and fewer three-putts.
Questions and Answers
Q: How often should I putt?
A: Practicing for 15 to 30 minutes before each round is a great way to keep your short game sharp and steady.
Q: What do you need to do to make more putts?
A: The key is to work on your stroke, read the greens correctly, and use drills like the Clock Drill to get better at controlling your distance.
Q: Which putting drill is the easiest for beginners?
A: The Gate Drill is great for beginners because it helps them develop a strong, straight putting stroke.
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