Arm Position When Putting

Arm Position When Putting: A Guide to Consistency and Control

Mastering arm position when putting is crucial for delivering consistent and accurate putts. The correct arm position ensures a stable and repeatable swing, allowing you to control the speed and direction of the ball effectively. In this article, we'll explore the essential aspects of arm position and provide tips to help you improve your putting.

Proper Arm Position

When addressing the ball for a putt, your arms should hang naturally from your shoulders, with your elbows slightly bent. Your forearms should be roughly parallel to the putting line, creating an L-shape with your upper arms. This position allows for a smooth and pendulum-like swing, minimizing any excessive hand or wrist movement.

Elbow Position

The position of your elbows plays a vital role in controlling the putter's path. Your elbows should be slightly tucked into your body, not flaring out to the sides. This helps keep the putter head on the intended line and prevents you from pulling the ball or pushing it to the right.

Hand Position

Your hand position on the putter is also significant. The most common grip is the "reverse overlap" grip, where your left hand (for right-handed golfers) overlaps your right hand slightly. This grip promotes a neutral wrist position, allowing for a consistent and controlled stroke.

Shoulder Alignment

Your shoulders should be parallel to the putting line, not open or closed. This ensures that your swing path is aligned with the intended target line. If your shoulders are open, the putter will tend to drift to the right; if your shoulders are closed, the putter will drift left.

Swing Length

The length of your backswing and downswing should be determined by the distance of the putt. For short putts, keep your swing short and controlled, while for longer putts, you may need to extend your swing slightly. Maintaining consistent swing length helps you control your pace and strike the ball with the desired speed.

Practice and Consistency

As with any aspect of golf, practice is key to improving your arm position when putting. Spend time practicing your grip, elbow tuck, shoulder alignment, and swing length. Use a putting mirror or video analysis to ensure you are maintaining proper form. Consistency in your arm position will lead to more accurate and effective putts.

By following these guidelines, you can optimize your arm position when putting and improve the consistency and control of your shots. Remember that every golfer's body and swing are unique, so experiment with different positions to find what works best for you. With dedicated practice and attention to detail, you can master arm position and become a more confident and skilled putter.