Putting confidence doesn’t come from making a few lucky putts. It comes from trusting that the ball will start on your intended line. When golfers lack confidence on the greens, the real issue is usually an unreliable stroke, not poor green reading.
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This simple putting stroke drill builds instant confidence by training one critical skill: starting the ball on line consistently.
A confident putting stroke is smooth and repeatable. There is no hitting or flicking of the wrists. The motion is controlled by the shoulders, allowing the putter to swing naturally back and through. When the stroke becomes predictable, confidence follows automatically.
To perform the drill, place two golf balls on the putting green about three feet from the hole, leaving a narrow gap between them. Then place a third ball centered between those two balls. Your goal is to roll the middle ball cleanly through the gap without touching either ball.
This drill provides immediate feedback. If the putter face opens or closes during the stroke, you will contact one of the outside balls. When the stroke is square and smooth, the ball passes cleanly through the gap.
Start with short strokes and focus on clean contact and steady tempo. Do not worry about making the putt at first. The goal is simply to start the ball on line. As success increases, confidence builds very quickly.
Once the drill feels comfortable, gradually move farther from the hole while keeping the same stroke tempo. Distance control becomes easier when you trust the start line.
Another variation is to use two tees placed slightly wider than the putter head, creating a gate. Rolling putts through the tee gate reinforces the same fundamentals and helps eliminate unnecessary hand movement.
Practicing this drill for just a few minutes before a round can dramatically improve confidence on the greens. When you trust your stroke, tension disappears and putting becomes far more automatic.
Confidence in putting is built through repetition and clarity. When you know the ball will start on line, your stroke becomes calm, consistent, and reliable.
Kevin Collier is an avid golfer and contributing author at AIGolfTips.com, where he shares his passion for the game through expert tips, techniques, and gear reviews. With years of experience on the course, Kevin offers valuable insights for golfers of all skill levels, helping them improve their game and maximize their potential. Whether discussing swing mechanics or the latest in golf technology, Kevin's engaging approach aims to inspire and educate fellow golf enthusiasts to elevate their performance and enjoy every moment on the green.
