Best Putting Technique – Which Is Right For You?

What is the best putting technique to adopt for your golf game? The answer to this question is very personal to your specific style and abilities. There are several different putting techniques in golf, and players often develop their own style based on personal preference and what works best for them.

Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to putting in golf. What works for one golfer may not work for another. The key is to experiment with different techniques and find the one that works best for you.

A great putter is not always the answer, focus on the rest first. Once you get your technique down, you’ll have to choose between a mallet vs blade style putter.

So, what are the commonly used putting techniques?

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Conventional/Traditional Putting

This is the most common putting technique used by golfers. In this technique, the golfer stands with their feet shoulder-width apart, aligns their body and the putter face to the target, and swings the putter back and through along a straight line.

The traditional putting stroke in golf, also known as the conventional putting stroke, is the most widely used technique by golfers. It is characterized by a straightforward motion that aims to keep the putter face square to the target throughout the stroke. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of the traditional putting stroke:

1. Stance and Alignment: Set up with your feet shoulder-width apart and parallel to the target line. Align your body and the putter face so that they are perpendicular to the target line. The ball should be positioned slightly forward of center in your stance.
2. Grip: Place your hands on the putter grip in a comfortable and relaxed manner. The lead hand (left hand for right-handed golfers) should grip the putter first, with the lifeline of the hand resting on top of the grip. The trail hand (right hand for right-handed golfers) should grip the putter below the lead hand, with the fingers comfortably wrapped around the grip.
3. Backswing: Initiate the backswing by gently rocking your shoulders, allowing the putter to move back smoothly and low to the ground. Keep your wrists firm and minimize any unnecessary movement. The length of the full swing will vary depending on the distance you need to putt.
4. Impact and Follow-through: As you swing the putter forward, aim to strike the golf ball with a slightly upward motion to create a smooth roll. Keep your eyes fixed on the ball throughout the stroke and maintain a steady head position. After making contact with the ball, continue the motion smoothly, allowing the putter to swing along the intended target line. The follow-through should be a mirror image of the backswing, with a similar length and rhythm.
5. Tempo and Rhythm: The traditional putting stroke emphasizes a pendulum-like motion with consistent tempo and rhythm. The goal is to achieve a smooth and controlled stroke without any abrupt or jerky movements. Maintaining a balanced and relaxed posture throughout the stroke is crucial.

Practice and repetition are essential for developing a reliable and effective traditional putting stroke. It’s also important to adapt your stroke length and strength to the specific distance and break of each putt.

A putting training aid may also help you with repetition in certain areas.

Experimenting with different grip pressures, putter lengths, and practicing on various green speeds will further enhance your putting skills.

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Arc Putting

This technique involves a slight arc in the putting stroke. The golfer’s putter travels slightly inside the target line during the backswing, then moves along the target line at impact, and continues slightly inside the target line on the follow-through.

The arc putting technique in golf involves incorporating a slight arc in the putting stroke. Instead of swinging the putter directly back and through along a straight line, the arc putting technique allows the putter to follow a curved path during the stroke. This technique is often used by players who prefer a more natural, flowing motion and find it easier to maintain a consistent square putter face at impact. Here’s a breakdown of the arc putting technique:

1. Stance and Alignment: Begin by setting up with a stance and alignment similar to the traditional putting technique. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart and parallel to the target line. Align your body and the putter face perpendicular to the target line.
2. Grip: Use a putter grip that feels comfortable and allows you to maintain control over the putter. The conventional grip or any other grip that suits your preference can be used for arc putting.
3. Backswing: Start the backswing by gently rocking your shoulders. During the backswing, allow the putter to move slightly inside the target line. The putter head should travel on an inward arc, with the clubface opening slightly as it moves away from the ball.
4. Impact and Follow-through: As you transition from the backswing to the downswing, the putter head starts to move back on the target line. At impact, the putter face should be square to the target, and the putter strikes the ball with a slightly upward motion. After striking the ball, the putter continues to move slightly inside the target line, following the natural arc. The follow-through mirrors the backswing, with the putter swinging slightly inward.
5. Tempo and Rhythm: The arc putting stroke requires maintaining a consistent tempo and rhythm throughout the motion. The goal is to create a smooth and flowing stroke that feels natural to you. Focus on maintaining balance and avoiding any sudden or jerky movements.
6. Adjusting for Distance and Break: Like with any putting technique, you’ll need to adjust the length and strength of your stroke based on the distance and break of the putt. Practice and experimentation will help you develop a sense of how the arc putting stroke translates into various distances and putting green conditions.

Remember, the arc putting technique is not a strict path that every player must follow. The amount of arc can vary depending on the individual’s preference and putting style. Some players may have a more pronounced arc, while others may have a more subtle one. Ultimately, finding the right balance between the arc and maintaining a square putter face at impact is essential for successful putting with this technique.

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Straight Back, Straight Through

As the name suggests, this technique involves a putting stroke where the putter moves straight back and straight through along the target line. The goal is to keep the putter face square to the target throughout the stroke.

Related: Best Putter For Beginners

The Straight Back, Straight Through (SBST) putting technique in golf is characterized by a putting stroke where the putter moves directly back and directly through along the target line. Unlike the arc putting technique, there is no intentional arc or curvature in the stroke. The SBST technique emphasizes keeping the putter face square to the target throughout the stroke. Here’s a breakdown of the SBST putting technique:

1. Stance and Alignment: Set up with a stance and alignment similar to other putting techniques. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart and parallel to the target line. Align your body and the putter face perpendicular to the target line.
2. Grip: Use a grip that feels comfortable and allows you to maintain control over the putter. The conventional grip or any other grip that suits your preference can be used for the SBST technique.
3. Backswing: Initiate the backswing by gently rocking your shoulders. As you swing the putter back, focus on keeping the clubhead moving straight back along the target line. The goal is to avoid any lateral or angular movement that could introduce an unintentional arc.
4. Impact and Follow-through: As you transition from the backswing to the downswing, the putter head moves directly forward along the target line. At impact, the putter face should be square to the target, and the putter strikes the ball with a slightly upward motion. Continue the stroke by swinging the putter straight through along the target line. Avoid any deviation or angular movement that would introduce a curve in the stroke.
5. Tempo and Rhythm: Like with any putting technique, maintaining a consistent tempo and rhythm is crucial for the SBST stroke. Aim for a smooth and controlled motion without any abrupt or jerky movements. Focus on maintaining a balanced and relaxed posture throughout the stroke.
6. Adjusting for Distance and Break: Adjusting the length and strength of your stroke is necessary to accommodate different distances and green conditions. Practice and experimentation will help you develop a sense of how the SBST putting stroke translates into various distances and green speeds.

The SBST putting technique can be effective for golfers who prefer a more linear and direct stroke. However, it’s important to note that there isn’t a single “correct” putting technique, and different players may find success with different approaches. Ultimately, finding the technique that feels most comfortable and suits your natural tendencies is key to improving your putting consistency.

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Split-Hand Putting

Also known as the “claw grip,” this technique involves a unique hand position on the grip. The lead hand (left hand for right-handed golfers) uses a conventional grip, while the trail hand (right hand for right-handed golfers) uses a grip where the palm faces the target, with the fingers extended downward. This grip can help promote a smoother, more pendulum-like stroke.

The Split-Hand Putting technique in golf, also known as the claw grip, is a unique hand positioning method that can be used to stabilize the wrists and promote a smoother putting stroke. The grip involves placing the lead hand (left hand for right-handed golfers) in a conventional grip position, while the trail hand (right hand for the right-handed golfer) adopts a different grip style that resembles a claw. If you’re a lefty, you may have a reverse overlap type of grip.

Here’s an explanation of the Split-Hand Putting technique:

1. Stance and Alignment: Begin by setting up with a stance and alignment similar to other putting techniques. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart and parallel to the target line. Align your body and the putter face perpendicular to the target line.
2. Lead Hand Grip: Grip the putter with your lead hand (left hand for right-handed golfers) in a conventional grip position. Place the hand comfortably on the grip, with the palm facing towards the target. Wrap your fingers around the grip, and the thumb should rest on top of the grip.
3. Trail Hand Grip (Claw Grip): Adopt the claw grip with your trail hand (right hand for right-handed golfers). Start by placing the palm of your hand on the grip so that it faces towards the target. Instead of wrapping the fingers around the grip, extend them downward so that they rest against the grip. The thumb can either be extended down the front of the grip or placed against the side of the grip.
4. Backswing: Initiate the backswing by gently rocking your shoulders. As you swing the putter back, maintain a firm and steady grip with both hands. Keep the wrists relatively stable and avoid excessive wrist movement.
5. Impact and Follow-through: As you transition from the backswing to the downswing, focus on striking the ball with a slightly upward motion to promote a smooth roll. At impact, the putter face should be square to the target, and the putter strikes the ball with the desired speed and direction. Continue the stroke by swinging the putter through along the target line, maintaining control with the split-hand grip.
6. Tempo and Rhythm: Like with any putting technique, maintaining a consistent tempo and rhythm is crucial for the Split-Hand Putting stroke. Develop a smooth and controlled motion that feels natural to you. Focus on keeping a steady head position and avoiding any jerky or abrupt movements.

The Split-Hand Putting technique can help reduce excessive wrist movement, which can lead to better control and stability during the stroke. However, it’s important to note that putting techniques are highly personal, and what works for one player may not work for another. Experimenting with different grips and techniques will help you find the approach that feels most comfortable and effective for your putting game.

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Cross-Handed Putting

This technique involves gripping the putter with the lead hand below the trail hand on the grip. For right-handed golfers, the left hand would be lower on the grip than the right hand. This grip can help reduce excessive wrist movement and promote a more stable stroke.

Note: Even the best putters won’t help a new golfer. Aim to nail down the technique first.

The Cross-Handed Putting technique, also known as the left-hand low or “left-hand low, right-hand high” grip for right-handed golfers (opposite for left-handed golfers), involves gripping the putter in a way that switches the position of the hands compared to the traditional grip. The lead hand (left hand for right-handed golfers) is placed below the trail hand (right hand for right-handed golfers) on the grip. This technique can help promote a more stable and consistent putting stroke. Here’s an explanation of the Cross-Handed Putting technique:

1. Stance and Alignment: Begin by setting up with a stance and alignment similar to other putting techniques. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart and parallel to the target line. Align your body and the putter face perpendicular to the target line.
2. Lead Hand Placement: For right-handed golfers (reverse for left-handed golfers), place your left hand lower on the grip compared to the right hand. The grip should be positioned in the fingers of the lead hand, with the palm facing towards the target. The thumb of the lead hand can either be extended down the front of the grip or placed against the side of the grip.
3. Trail Hand Placement: For right-handed golfers (reverse for left-handed golfers), place your right hand higher on the grip compared to the left hand. The grip should be positioned in the fingers of the trail hand, with the palm facing towards the target. The fingers of the trail hand wrap around the grip, and the thumb rests on top of the grip.
4. Backswing: Initiate the backswing by gently rocking your shoulders. As you swing the putter back, maintain a firm and steady grip with both hands. Keep the wrists relatively stable and avoid excessive movement.
5. Impact and Follow-through: As you transition from the backswing to the downswing, focus on striking the ball with a slightly upward motion to promote a smooth roll. At impact, the putter face should be square to the target, and the putter strikes the ball with the desired speed and direction. Continue the stroke by swinging the putter through along the target line, maintaining control with the cross-handed grip.
6. Tempo and Rhythm: Like with any putting technique, maintaining a consistent tempo and rhythm is crucial for the Cross-Handed Putting stroke. Develop a smooth and controlled motion that feels natural to you. Focus on keeping a steady head position and avoiding any jerky or abrupt movements.

The Cross-Handed Putting technique can help minimize wrist movement and promote a more stable stroke. It can be particularly beneficial for golfers who struggle with excessive hand and wrist action during the putting stroke. However, it’s important to remember that putting techniques are highly individual, and what works for one player may not work for another. Experimenting with different grips and techniques will help you find the approach that feels most comfortable and effective for your putting game.

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Arm Lock Putting

In this technique, the golfer uses a putter with extra shaft length and grips the putter with the trail hand against the lead forearm, creating an “arm lock” position. This technique can help stabilize the wrists and promote a more consistent stroke.

The Arm Lock Putting technique is a unique putting style that involves using a putter with extra shaft length and gripping the putter with the lead arm (left arm for right-handed golfers) against the forearm, creating an “arm lock” position. This technique aims to stabilize the wrists and promote a more consistent and repeatable putting stroke. Here’s an explanation of the Arm Lock Putting technique:

1. Stance and Alignment: Begin by setting up with a stance and alignment similar to other putting techniques. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart and parallel to the target line. Align your body and the putter face perpendicular to the target line.
2. Putter Selection: Use a putter with an extended shaft length that allows you to grip the putter with the lead arm against the forearm. The length should be such that when you grip the putter, the butt end of the grip extends up the inside of your lead forearm.
3. Lead Arm Position: For right-handed golfers (reverse for left-handed golfers), place your left arm against your left forearm. The goal is to create a locked position where the lead arm and putter form a straight line.
4. Grip Pressure: Grip the putter with a firm but relaxed grip pressure. The lead hand should grip the putter handle in a conventional manner, while the trail hand can support the grip or rest lightly on top of the lead hand.
5. Backswing: Initiate the backswing by gently rocking your shoulders. As you swing the putter back, maintain a stable and connected lead arm and putter alignment. The arm lock position helps restrict excessive wrist movement during the stroke.
6. Impact and Follow-through: As you transition from the backswing to the downswing, focus on striking the ball with a slightly upward motion to promote a smooth roll. At impact, the putter face should be square to the target, and the putter strikes the ball with the desired speed and direction. Continue the stroke by swinging the putter through along the target line, maintaining control with the arm lock grip.
7. Tempo and Rhythm: Like with any putting technique, maintaining a consistent tempo and rhythm is crucial for the Arm Lock Putting stroke. Develop a smooth and controlled motion that feels natural to you. Focus on keeping a steady head position and avoiding any jerky or abrupt movements.

The Arm Lock Putting technique can help stabilize the wrists and minimize potential wrist breakdown during the putting stroke. It is important to note that the Arm Lock Putting technique may take some adjustment and practice to become comfortable and effective. Experimenting with different putter lengths and grip pressures will help you find the optimal setup for your Arm Lock Putting stroke.

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How To Choose The Best Putting Technique For Your Specific Game

Choosing a putting technique in golf depends on various factors, including your natural stroke tendencies, your level of skill and experience, your physical abilities, and personal preferences. Here are some tips to help you pick a putting technique that work in the best way for you.

Assess Your Putting Tendencies

Pay attention to your natural putting stroke tendencies. Do you tend to miss putts to the left or right? Do you tend to hit long or short putts too hard or too soft?

Understanding your stroke tendencies can help you identify which putting techniques may help you improve your accuracy and consistency.

Consider Your Physical Abilities

Some putting techniques require more wrist or hand flexibility, while others may be more suitable for golfers with limited mobility or joint stiffness. Consider your physical abilities and any limitations you may have when choosing a putting technique.

Experiment with Different Techniques

Try out different putting techniques to see which ones feel comfortable and natural to you. Experimenting with different grips, hand positions, and stroke paths can help you identify the techniques that work best for your game.

Seek Professional Advice

If you are unsure about which putting technique to use, consider seeking advice from a golf instructor or coach. They can assess your putting stroke and recommend techniques that are tailored to your specific needs and abilities. This is another reason why golf lessons are worth it.

Practice Consistently

Once you have chosen a putting technique, practice it consistently to improve your skills and build muscle memory. Regular practice and repetition can help you develop the confidence and consistency you need to succeed on the green.

Once you take your game out onto the golf course, make sure to use practice stokes at every green. This is a great way to strive for consistency.

If you want to do some putting practice at home, try getting an indoor putting green for your game room!

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Are There Different Putting Strokes For Various Levels Of Play?

Yes, there can be variations in putting strokes based on the skill level and experience of the golfer. Different putting strokes can suit different levels of play and golfer abilities. Here are some general considerations:

1. Beginner Level: Golfers who are new to the game or still developing their skills often benefit from focusing on the fundamentals of a consistent and repeatable putting stroke. They may be introduced to basic techniques such as the traditional or straight-back, straight-through putting stroke. These techniques emphasize simplicity, stability, and building a foundation for developing good putting mechanics.
2. Intermediate Level: As amateur golfers progress and become more comfortable with the basics, they may explore different putting techniques to find what suits them best. They might experiment with variations like the arc putting technique or the cross-handed putting technique. These techniques can help refine their stroke and improve consistency and control on the greens.
3. Advanced Level: Experienced and professional golfers at an advanced level may have honed their putting skills and developed a strong sense of feel and touch on the greens. They might have a preferred putting technique that they have refined over time.
   However, even at this level, golfers may continue to experiment and make adjustments based on their personal preferences and the specific demands of the courses they play. You see players on the PGA tour doing this all the time!
4. Junior Golfers: The putting technique for junior golfers should prioritize simplicity, consistency, and individual comfort, allowing them to develop a solid foundation while fostering their enjoyment of the game.

Related: Best Junior Putters

It’s important to note that the level of play is not the only factor in determining the putting stroke. Each golfer has unique characteristics, preferences, and physical abilities that can influence the choice of putting technique. It’s a highly individual aspect of the game, and golfers should explore different options, seek guidance from professionals if needed, and ultimately choose the putting stroke that helps them achieve the best results and feels most comfortable for their game.

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Recap Of Putting Techniques

It’s important to note that choosing a putting technique depends on individual preference and comfort. Some golfers may find success with one technique, while others may prefer a different approach. Experimenting with different techniques and finding what works best for you is key to improving your putting game.