Putting Practice: Coin on the Putter Head

Coin on the Putter Head

Placing a coin on the putter head is a drill focused on developing a consistent and controlled putting stroke. This drill is designed to enhance your ability to strike the ball cleanly and maintain a smooth stroke throughout, leading to improved accuracy and distance control on the greens.

Steps to Perform the Coin on the Putter Drill:

 Select a Flat Surface: Begin by finding a flat and level surface on the putting green. This drill is most effective on a relatively straight and unobstructed putt.

Place the Coin on the Putter Face: Balance the chosen coin on the center of the putter face. The idea is to keep the coin in place throughout the entire putting stroke.

Address the Ball: Take your normal putting stance, aligning yourself to the target line. Ensure that the putter face is square to the target.

Focus on a Smooth Stroke: As you initiate the putting stroke, concentrate on making a smooth and controlled movement. The goal is to roll the ball smoothly without disturbing the coin on the putter face.

Complete the Stroke: Follow through with your putting stroke, allowing the putter to swing freely. Maintain a steady pace, avoiding any sudden or jerky movements.

Observe the Coin: After completing the putt, check if the coin remains on the putter face. If the coin falls off, it indicates that your stroke may have been inconsistent or had unnecessary movements.

Repeat the Drill: Retrieve the coin and repeat the drill for several putts, gradually increasing the distance if you feel comfortable. This repetition helps reinforce a consistent and controlled putting stroke.

Benefits of the Coin on the Putter Drill:

Stroke Consistency: The drill emphasizes the importance of a smooth and consistent putting stroke, promoting a pendulum-like motion.

Face Control: By keeping the coin on the putter face, the drill encourages proper control of the clubface throughout the stroke.

Distance Control: Focusing on a steady stroke aids in developing a better sense of distance control, which is crucial for accurate putting.

Visual Feedback: The coin provides immediate visual feedback. If it falls off, you know there was some deviation in your stroke.

Increased Focus: The challenge of balancing the coin promotes heightened concentration, enhancing your mental focus during practice.

Tips for Putting Practice Success:

Start Short: Begin the drill with short putts to get a feel for the exercise before gradually extending the distance.

Smooth Over Power: Prioritize a smooth stroke over hitting the ball with excessive power. The goal is control and accuracy.

Experiment with Different Coins: Depending on the size of your putter face, you may need to experiment with different coin sizes to find the right fit.

Combine with Reading Greens: Integrate the drill with reading the contours of the green to simulate real-game situations.

Final Thoughts:

Remember, the primary goal of this drill is to strike the golf ball cleanly while keeping the coin in place. With enough practice you can develop the precision you need to strike the ball in the center of the putter. You will develop the control over the putter head needed to hit solid puts. Finally, you'll gain the focus and concentration needed to maintain a smooth and consistent putting stroke.