Missing short putts is one of the most frustrating aspects of golf. I’m referring to putts that are under six feet, and especially those within four. You make a great shot to set yourself up for a short birdie, but then you miss it. You make a great chip or pitch to save par or bogey, but it doesn’t work.
When we are faced with a short putt, there are several factors that can hinder our success. We tense up because we feel “obligated” to make the putt. This is manifested in a tighter grip on the putter and even a “death-grip” (appropriately called). This firmer grip is usually concentrated on the thumbs or forefingers. The forearms and shoulders are also tightened. The first tip to remember is:
- Relax and lighten up. Focus on how tightly you grip the putter. Try to hold the putter with your fingers and only lightly resting your thumbs on top. Try this to see the difference: While you’re sitting, clench both your thumb and your forefinger and then move your hand by flexing the wrist. Do you feel tension in your forearm when doing so? Relax your thumb and your forefinger and only squeeze your last three finger in your hand. Now move your hand around. How much more can you move your hand? This tip is applicable to all of your shots but especially the short putts. Light grip with only three fingers under pressure will allow for a smooth stroke.
When we are faced with a short putt, we tend to allow our negative thoughts to creep into our minds. “Don’t let me miss this “…”What will happen if I do? ?”…”I must make this “…all of these put pressure on us to perform well.
The second tip is:
- Relax. Take a breather. Allow yourself to believe you can make it. You’ve hit a good shot to get this close. While you wait for your turn to putt, relax, shake off the nerves and think positive thoughts. You know what else? It’s okay if you miss the shot. You only get one shot. Enjoy yourself and make some more short putts.
We tend to be so focused on the “just make a great stroke” that our thoughts become mechanical. Let them go. Concentrate your attention on the target. The majority of short putts will be straight or just slightly outside or on the high side. The Patriot is my favorite movie to think about these putts.
- Aim Small, Miss Small. Early on in the film, Gibson’s character went with his two young sons, several rifles, to rescue his older brother. He told them “Remember what you were told?” The son responded “Yes, sir.” This is a great tip for short putts. Pick a small speck of dirt or grass on the back edge or inside the lip of the hole. This will help you to focus your eyes instead of the hole. Do not just focus on the hole, but rather concentrate on a specific spot. This will improve your eye-hand coordination and increase your visual acuity.
Here are the three keys for making more short putsts.
- Lighten up
- Chill out
- Aim small, miss small
This should help you all to make more.
