To reduce three-putting on the green, GOLF Top 100 Teacher Joey Wuertemberger shares his “8-4-4” drill focusing on speed control. By mastering this drill, golfers can improve their putting and ultimately lower their scores. The key to reducing three-putts lies in dialing in speed control and lagging the first putt within a reliable distance of the hole. Wuertemberger emphasizes the importance of tempo and stroke length for successful lag putting. Utilizing the 8-4-4 drill, golfers can practice proper tempo and stroke length, leading to more accurate putts and fewer three-putt scenarios.
The 8-4-4 drill involves hitting putts up to 30 feet while focusing on tempo and stroke length. By placing a tee eight inches behind the ball and matching the backstroke and forward stroke length, golfers can control the speed of their putts. The goal is to roll the ball about 10 feet with consistent stroke lengths. By analyzing the distance the ball travels, golfers can identify flaws in their stroke length and make necessary adjustments.
To further refine their putting skills, golfers can incorporate a metronome app to develop a consistent tempo. By matching their stroke tempo with the beats of the metronome, golfers can establish a rhythmic putting routine. The “4s” in the drill’s name refer to adding four inches of stroke length for every 10 feet of additional putt distance. This incremental increase in stroke length helps golfers adapt to different putt distances and improve their feel on the greens.
As golfers practice the 8-4-4 drill and refine their tempo and stroke length, they will establish a baseline for their putting performance. This baseline can then be applied to real course situations, leading to improved putting accuracy and lower three-putt percentages. By mastering the 8-4-4 drill, golfers can develop a reliable putting technique that enhances their overall game and helps them achieve lower scores on the course.
Implementing the 8-4-4 drill in their practice routine can help golfers gain confidence and consistency in their putting. By focusing on tempo, stroke length, and speed control, golfers can improve their ability to lag putts close to the hole and avoid unnecessary three-putts. With dedication and practice, golfers can master the 8-4-4 drill and see a significant reduction in their three-putt frequency, ultimately leading to lower scores and improved performance on the greens.
In conclusion, mastering the 8-4-4 drill is essential for golfers looking to enhance their putting skills and lower their three-putt percentages. By focusing on tempo, stroke length, and speed control, golfers can develop a consistent and reliable putting technique that translates to success on the course. Through dedicated practice and adherence to the principles of the 8-4-4 drill, golfers can elevate their putting performance, improve their overall game, and achieve lower scores. Give the 8-4-4 drill a try and experience the benefits of dialing in your speed control on the greens.
