Golf Drills: How to Practice Putting at Home

The National Golf Foundation says that 45 million Americans play golf. If you're one of them, you probably want to improve your putting game.

Wanna do it without needing regular access to the golf course?

Today, we're taking a closer look into how to practice putting at home with expert tips and drills that will enhance your skills indoors. From basic drills to advanced techniques, this guide will help you get perfect putting technique without leaving the house.

Setting Up Your Home Putting Area

To practice putting at home effectively, you need a dedicated space. This space should be flat and free of obstacles, allowing you to focus on your technique.

Many people use areas like living rooms, hallways, or even patios, as long as the surface is smooth. The key is to find a spot where you can set up and practice consistently without needing to rearrange furniture every time.

Next, you'll need some basic equipment. A putting mat is a great investment, providing a realistic surface that mimics a golf course. If you don't have one, you can use a piece of carpet or any surface that closely resembles the feel of a green.

In addition to a mat, you'll need a putter and a few golf balls. For those who want to go a step further, adding alignment aids or putting gates can help you refine your stroke and improve accuracy.

Putting Surface

Creating a realistic putting surface is essential for effective practice. A putting mat is the best option, but you can also get creative. For example, some golfers place a cup or small object as a target if a hole isn't available.

The goal is to simulate the conditions of an actual green as closely as possible, allowing you to practice with purpose. By setting up your home putting area thoughtfully, you'll be well on your way to improving your skills without leaving the house.

Now let's get into some great home putting drills!

The Gate Drill

The gate drill is a simple yet effective way to improve your putting accuracy. To set it up, place two objects, like tees or small books, on either side of the ball, forming a gate.

The goal is to putt the ball through the gate without touching the objects. This drill helps you focus on striking the ball cleanly and straight. Over time, it can help reduce off-center hits and improve your aim. Practicing this regularly can help build muscle memory, so your putts are more consistent on the green.

Coin Drill

The Coin Drill is another great exercise to improve putting accuracy. Place a coin or small object on your putting surface and try to hit it with the ball. The small target forces you to focus on your stroke, helping you develop a more accurate aim.

It also encourages a smooth follow-through, which is key to consistent putting. By practicing with smaller targets, you'll find it easier to aim for the hole during actual play.

Distance Control Drill

The distance control drill is perfect for mastering the speed of your putts. Set up targets at different distances and practice hitting each one. The goal is to control the speed of your putt so the ball stops close to the target.

This drill is especially helpful for improving your ability to judge distances, which is essential for avoiding three-putts. Consistent practice with this drill can give you better control over your putts, both short and long.

The Clock Drill

The Clock Drill is a great way to work on your putting from different angles and distances. To perform this drill, place several balls around the hole at various points, forming a circle or clock face.

Start by putting from each position, focusing on maintaining the same stroke regardless of the distance. The drill helps you practice those tricky putts you might encounter on the course, where the angle and distance can vary. It's an excellent way to build confidence and consistency.

One-Handed Putting Drill

The One-Handed Putting Drill is another effective exercise that focuses on grip and stroke control. By practicing with just one hand, you can better understand the role each hand plays in your putting stroke.

The drills helps develop a smoother, more controlled stroke. It also reinforces the importance of using your body, not just your hands, to guide the putter. Practicing with one hand can make your regular two-handed putts feel more stable and precise.

The Ladder Drill

The Ladder Drill is designed to improve your control over different distances. To do this drill, place several targets at increasing distances from your starting point.

The goal is to putt the ball to stop as close to each target as possible. It teaches you to control the speed of your putts, which is critical for avoiding long or short misses. By practicing distance control, you'll become more confident in judging the speed needed for different putts, reducing the likelihood of three putts during a round.

Each drill targets a different aspect of your putting game, helping you become a more versatile and skilled putter. Regularly practicing these drills can lead to noticeable improvements in your overall performance on the green.

Maximizing Your Practice

Consistency is key when practicing putting at home. The more you practice, the more you'll develop muscle memory and confidence in your putting stroke.

Setting aside even a few minutes each day for practice can make a significant difference over time. By sticking to a regular routine, you'll see gradual improvements in your accuracy and control.

Focusing on form and technique is just as important as the drills themselves. Pay attention to your grip, posture, and the way you strike the ball.

How To Practice Putting at Home

Now you know how to practice putting at home! It's a simple and effective way to improve your golf game. 

Falcon's Fire Golf Club is one of the finest public golf courses in Orlando. We have an immaculate course featuring the highest level of service and amenities. And we're conveniently located just steps from the Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando International Airport, and more!

Get in touch today to find out how we can help your game!