Tip From the Archives

Coming Up Short

Problem

You have a great line but the ball comes up short of the hole.

Cure

Many people end their putting stroke at the point of contact and the ball does not reach the hole. However, it is critical that you accelerate through the putt with a follow through that matches or exceeds the length of your backswing. You need to alleviate tension to help hit more solid and accurate putts. Reaching for the ball causes a build up of tension in your arms, prohibiting a natural swing.

Therapy

Allow your arms to hang down naturally instead of pushing them outward. Your arms should be under your shoulder sockets. When you are able to relax your arms, it will allow you to accelerate the putter through the ball so you can reach the hole. One trick to help you accelerate your putts is to shorten your backswing so you feel the need to accelerate a the clubhead a little faster. Before playing your round, go the practice green to work on accelerating through the ball by placing four tees into the ground in alignment to the hole. Now instead of using a ball, swing so that you not only knock over the first tee but you hit all of them. This will force you to create enough momentum and follow through so the ball will roll into the hole.

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