Master the green: step-by-step instructions on how to putt with a mallet putter for beginners

Putting with a mallet putter is a technique that golfers of all levels can use to improve their accuracy and consistency on the greens. Mallet putters are designed with a larger head and a heavier weight distribution, which makes them more stable and easier to control. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the fundamentals of putting with a mallet putter, providing you with step-by-step instructions, tips, and drills to help you master this essential aspect of the game.

Understanding Mallet Putters

Mallet putters come in various shapes and sizes, but they all share a few key characteristics. The head is typically larger than a blade putter, with a wider face and a heavier weight distribution. This design provides greater stability and forgiveness, making it easier to control the direction and speed of your putts.

Grip and Posture

The grip and posture you use with a mallet putter are slightly different than with a blade putter. Grip the putter with your hands slightly wider apart, with your thumbs pointing down the shaft. Your stance should be slightly open, with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent.

Alignment and Aim

Proper alignment and aim are crucial for successful putting. Stand behind the ball and take a few practice swings to get a feel for the putter’s weight and balance. Place the putter head behind the ball, ensuring that the face is square to the target line. Use your eyes to line up the putter head with the hole.

Stroke Mechanics

The stroke with a mallet putter is similar to that of a blade putter. Keep your head still and your eyes focused on the ball. Start the stroke with a smooth, pendulum-like motion, keeping your arms and body in sync. As you approach the ball, accelerate the putter head slightly to deliver a firm but controlled impact.

Speed Control

Controlling the speed of your putts is essential for making them consistently. With a mallet putter, the heavier weight distribution helps to provide more stability and control. Practice putting from different distances to get a feel for the speed required. Use a consistent backswing length and tempo to ensure that your putts roll at the desired speed.

Drills to Improve Your Putting

Regular practice is key to improving your putting skills. Here are a few drills that you can use to enhance your accuracy and consistency with a mallet putter:

• Aiming Drill: Place a target several feet away and practice aligning the putter head with the target. Focus on keeping the putter face square to the target line.

• Speed Control Drill: Set up a series of targets at varying distances. Practice putting to each target with a consistent backswing length and tempo. Aim to make the ball roll to the desired distance.

• Putting Gate Drill: Place two tees or alignment sticks a few inches apart, forming a “gate.” Practice putting through the gate to improve your accuracy and consistency.

Putting on Slopes

Putting on slopes can be challenging, but with a mallet putter, you have an advantage. The heavier weight distribution provides more stability, making it easier to control the speed and direction of your putts.

• Uphill Putts: On uphill putts, aim slightly above the hole and use a firmer stroke to compensate for the slope.

• Downhill Putts: On downhill putts, aim slightly below the hole and use a lighter stroke to prevent the ball from rolling too far.

Troubleshooting Common Putting Problems

• Missed Putts to the Left: This can be caused by an open putter face or an incorrect grip.

• Missed Putts to the Right: This can be caused by a closed putter face or an incorrect alignment.

• Short Putts: This can be caused by a lack of speed or an incorrect stroke mechanic.

• Long Putts: This can be caused by too much speed or an incorrect aim.

The Bottom Line: Elevate Your Putting Game with a Mallet Putter

Mastering the art of putting with a mallet putter takes practice and patience. By following the tips and drills outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can improve your accuracy, consistency, and overall putting performance. Embrace the stability and control that a mallet putter offers, and unlock your potential on the greens.

FAQ

Q: What are the benefits of using a mallet putter?

A: Mallet putters provide greater stability, forgiveness, and control compared to blade putters. This makes them ideal for golfers who struggle with accuracy and consistency.

Q: What is the best way to grip a mallet putter?

A: Grip the putter with your hands slightly wider apart, with your thumbs pointing down the shaft.

Q: How should I aim my mallet putter?

A: Place the putter head behind the ball, ensuring that the face is square to the target line. Use your eyes to line up the putter head with the hole.

Q: What is the key to controlling speed with a mallet putter?

A: Practice putting from different distances to get a feel for the speed required. Use a consistent backswing length and tempo to ensure that your putts roll at the desired speed.

Q: How can I improve my putting on slopes with a mallet putter?

A: On uphill putts, aim slightly above the hole and use a firmer stroke. On downhill putts, aim slightly below the hole and use a lighter stroke.