I am a single handicap golfer. How can I improve my game to break 70?

Question

My handicap is 5, my problem is I don't have much confidence in short putts(5-10 foot), How can I improve my putting?

Answer 1

First off you're on the right track. You've defined your area of weakness. Being a single handicap means you've got a consistant swing which is great. But in this fickle game a 3 foot putt counts the same as that 300yd drive. So to improve your putts from 5-10 feet and your confidence do this for about 30 minutes each day you can.

1. There will be 3 stations in this drill. 1 from 5 foot way, then the next from 7.5 foot away on the same line, then the third from 10 foot, again on the same line.

2. Starting at the first station hit puts until you make 5 in a row. Once and only when you do this can you move back to the next station. Only move from the second station when you've made five from there.

To put some pressure on yourself, don't let yourself leave until you've made 15 in a row. You're nerve's will be tested but your putting will get better.

Don't worry too much about your stroke just concentrate on makeing the putts. You're stroke will get better as you do this.
Also try going through your pre-putt routine before each stroke. Just really emerse yourself in the whole process and don't think to much about the putt itself.

P.S. I am a certified teaching professional as well as player. I give about 30 lessons every week so I've seen it all.

Answer 2

Work on developing a consistent routine when you face these putts....most people have a hard time with 3-10 foot putts and often see breaks that are not there. Step back and allign yourself. Clear your mind. Breathe deeply, don't second guess yourself, and keep your head down. Smooth stroke, and then follow through cleanly. Practise as much as you can and don't beat yourself up!

Answer 3

Being a single handicap golfer, the only thing you need to work on, it your mental edge on the game. I know absolutely nothing about putting drills, and i am a fairly good putter. I just go out to the putting green, and just practice putting, from different places, to different cups.

Answer 4

Well short game always help but you need to fine tune everything, including mental part. I have a lot of good links on my blog roll to help but here is the best of the group
Here is a link with tips form Rick Martino. They will help you
http://www.pga.com/improve/tips/rickmartino/index.cfm

Answer 5

You're far much better than those averages.
If you don't want to turn 'Pro' why bother?

Golf is solitare. You only beat yourself.
Meditation will help.

Answer 6

If you are a single handicapper, then this is a stupid question to ask since you already know the answer.

Answer 7

Practice, practice, practice.

Answer 8

make sure your don't come short