Dialing in your speed is key to being a good putter from distance.
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Putting would be easier if every putt you faced was the same length. But during any round, you need to manage all kinds of distances: short putts, mid-rangers, long-rangers and, of course, long lags. Therefore, in addition to learning exactly how the putt will break, it is important to know how to adjust your stroke to power the ball the right distance. Unless you are an experienced golfer, your hope is only a guess.
When I ask my students how they adjust their strokes to roll the ball different lengths, they always answer, “by changing the speed of my side.” That’s why they don’t come close. The important fact is that the speed of your stroke naturally changes based on the length of the backstroke. Short putts warrant short backstrokes and long putts require long backstrokes. Everything else remains the same. It’s that simple.
The question asks, “How long should I do the backstroke?” Here’s an easy way to find out.
For any putt, stand next to the ball and simply walk to the cup. Count how many steps you need to reach the hole. (One step should equal three feet.) Now, some simple math: Add one inch of backstroke length to every step you take. For example, if it takes you five steps to reach the hole, then plan to make a backstroke five inches longer (with minor adjustments if the putt goes up or down or if the green is running faster or slower).
As you swing your putter, resist the urge to add speed – great putters complete their backstroke, then let the putter fall on the ball. You won’t always sink the putt this way, but you will always be closer to the hole, regardless of length.
Kellie Stenzel is a GOLF Top 100 instructor who teaches at Palm Beach Par 3 and The Boca Raton in Fla.
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