Alignment Sticks in Golf Training: Putting

Alignment sticks are an essential tool for improving your putting skills. They help you perfect your alignment, swing path, and ball address.

Aim of the exercise:

The main goal of these drills is to develop a consistent address and a straight putter swing that's directly aligned with the target. This leads to more precise putts and better distance control.

Execution of the exercise:

• Preparation: Place two alignment sticks parallel to each other on the ground. The distance should be slightly wider than your putter head, allowing it to swing freely between the sticks. The sticks should be aligned directly toward the hole or your target.
  
  
• Alignment: Stand with your feet parallel to your sticks and position the putter head between them. Make sure your body, shoulders, and eyes are parallel to the target line.
  
  
• Swing path: Now slowly and controlled, move the putter back and forth between the two sticks. The putter should not touch the sticks. This trains a straight, pendulum-like swing, which is crucial for a straight putt.
  
  
• Address: Make sure you hit the ball in the center of the putter and that the swing is in a straight line through the ball.
  
  

What you should pay attention to:

Focus on maintaining a steady head position throughout your swing and maintaining a consistent tempo. A common mistake is accelerating the putter at impact. Keep your swing smooth and controlled.