How to Stop Pulling Golf Putts
How to Stop Pulling Golf Putts: Tips from Phil Kenyon
Phil Kenyon explains the common issue of pulling putts in golf, emphasizing the importance of proper arm and shoulder positioning to improve accuracy. He provides exercises to help golfers maintain a neutral shoulder position and connect their trail arm to their body, ultimately leading to better putting performance.
Golfers often struggle with pulling putts, a common mistake that can lead to missed opportunities on the green. In this article, we will explore the insights shared by Phil Kenyon, a renowned golf coach, on how to correct this issue and improve your putting game.
Understanding the Pull Putt
A pulled putt typically occurs when the golfer’s trail side moves incorrectly during the stroke. This movement can cause the clubface to close, sending the ball to the left of the target. Recognizing the mechanics behind this mistake is the first step toward improvement.
Key Factors Leading to Pull Putts
Kenyon identifies several key factors that contribute to pulling putts:
- Trail Side Movement: The way the trail side (the side opposite the target) moves during the stroke is crucial. If the trail side fires incorrectly, it can wrap the club around the ball, closing the clubface.
- Arm Position: Many golfers, especially those who are right-hand dominant, tend to position their right hand too far on top of the club. This can lead to improper shoulder alignment and movement.
Fixing the Pull Putt
To address the issue of pulling putts, Kenyon suggests focusing on two main areas: arm positioning and shoulder movement.
1. Adopt a Neutral Shoulder Position
A neutral shoulder position is essential for maintaining control during the putting stroke. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Arm Placement: Start by placing your arm at your side and flexing it at the elbow. Open your palm to promote external rotation of the arm.
- Grip the Club: From this position, grip the club. You will notice that your lower forearm will naturally move into a pronated position, which helps keep the trail arm connected to your body.
2. Focus on Up and Down Movement
Once your arm is positioned correctly, it’s important to adjust your shoulder and chest movement:
- Movement Direction: Instead of allowing your shoulders to move around, focus on moving them up and down. This vertical movement will help maintain the connection of your trail arm to your body, reducing the likelihood of pulling the putt.
Conclusion
By understanding the mechanics behind pulling putts and implementing the exercises suggested by Phil Kenyon, golfers can significantly improve their putting accuracy. Remember to maintain a neutral shoulder position and focus on vertical movement during your stroke. With practice, you can eliminate the pull putt and enhance your overall performance on the green.
