Routine and Ritual of Putting

by

Jeff Frasier, PGA

Director of Instruction

Let's forget about all the proper mechanics on putting and think about a way to provide a proactive way to approach your putting.  It exists in two very different forms:  Routine and Ritual.

Routine is the sequence of actions that are performed in preparing to execute your putt.  Almost every golfer has some sort of routine, but many do not repeat every step with consistency.  The actions you make following the process of reading the green would be considered a routine.  Next time you are practicing your putting, try breaking down the steps that you use in preparing to execute your putt.  It may consist of how you mark your golf ball, line up your putt or just simply making practice strokes.

The putting Ritual is a constant set of motions before making your putting stroke.  The motions are made in a constant rhythm and timing sequence that sets the tone and timing for the rhythm of your stroke.  It takes three beats to establish rhythm.  A simple movement to trigger the ritual and a look of motion towards the hole then back to the ball would be sufficient.

The combination of a steady Routine and the execution of a Ritual will allow you to stop thinking about making the proper stroke mechanics and focus on the touch and feel of the putting stroke.

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