Pro Golf Tips: The Putting Routine

by Bob Augustine

A consistent routine should be established for every shot that you will hit, from drive to putt. However, keep in mind that the rules of golf only allow the golfer 35 seconds to hit a shot, from the time that it is clearly his turn to play. The first person to putt will get an extra 10 seconds to read his putt. It is only allowed on the first putt on the green. That means the other players should be reading their putts as the first person to putt is reading his.

Read your putt by determining how much slope will affect the roll of the ball. Determine the speed that you think your ball will need to reach the hole. Place your ball on the green directly behind your marker and while kneeling down behind your ball, line up the ball’s logo or your personal marking directly down the starting direction of the putt. Next, take your address position to the side of the ball and make two practice strokes while looking at the target. Make them identical to how you wish to strike the putt. Address the putt with your normal practiced procedure. Aim your putter square to the line you wish your ball to take. Take one last look at the target, focusing your mind on the target through the use of your eyes. Return your eyes to the ball and start the stroke.

Every great player has a routine that never varies. You can time them with a stopwatch and it will amaze you how consistent it is. You can develop a very correct putting technique but if you do not have a routine that is second nature to you, I do not think you will putt to the best of your ability.

Bob Augustine is a PGA instructor and the director of instruction at Peninsula State Park Golf Course.