how to use a belly putter

Golf is a game of precision, skill, and a little bit of luck. For many players, the right equipment can make a world of difference. One such piece of equipment is the belly putter. If you’re curious about how to use a belly putter effectively, you’ve come to the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from choosing the right belly putter to mastering your technique.

What is a Belly Putter?

A belly putter is a type of putter that is longer than a traditional putter and is designed to rest against the belly, providing stability during the stroke. This unique design allows for a more controlled and consistent putting stroke, which is why many golfers have adopted it over the years.

The Benefits of Using a Belly Putter

Using a belly putter comes with several advantages:

• Stability: The belly putter helps stabilize your hands during the stroke.
• Consistency: Keeps your body and arms connected, which produces a repeatable motion.
• Less Misalignment: Encourages a more consistent alignment which can help to reduce the likelihood of mis-hits.

Choosing the Right Belly Putter

Selecting the right belly putter is crucial for reaping its benefits. When choosing a belly putter, consider the following:

• Length: Typical belly putters range from 41 to 44 inches. Ensure it rests comfortably against your body.
• Weight: Look for designed weight distribution that feels right in your hands.
• Grip: Choose a grip that feels good and allows for a strong feel without being too bulky.

Different Types of Belly Putters

Mastering the Technique

Setting Up Your Stance

The first step in using a belly putter is setting up your stance. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Position the Ball: Place the ball slightly forward in your stance—generally just inside your left heel.
2. Grip the Putter: Use a grip that feels natural, typically the traditional grip or the cross-handed grip works best.
3. Anchor the Putter: Rest the midsection of the putter against your belly while ensuring your elbows are relaxed and pointed down.

The Putting Stroke

When it comes to the actual stroke, follow these steps:

• Keep Your Eyes Level: This allows for a better line of sight to the hole.
• Use Your Shoulders: The motion should come primarily from your shoulders, not your wrists.
• Maintain Stability: Hold your body still as you execute the stroke; this helps keep the putter on line.
• Follow Through: Allow your arms to extend naturally to ensure a smooth and controlled follow-through.

Drills to Enhance Your Skills

Here are a few drills that can help you improve your belly putting skills:

• Line Drill: Place several coins in a line towards the hole. Practice hitting each coin to maintain straight strokes.
• Distance Control: Set up various targets at different distances and practice getting the ball to stop at those points.
• Consistency Drill: Hit several putts in a row from the same spot without adjusting your setup to ensure consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using a belly putter, like any piece of golf equipment, comes with its pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Anchoring Incorrectly: Make sure the putter is correctly anchored against your belly without excessive pressure.
• Using Too Much Wrist Action: Keep wrists steady and focus on shoulder movement.
• Poor Alignment: Always check your alignment before taking the putt. You should be able to draw a straight line from your ball to your target.

Additional Tips for Success

• Practice Patience: Learning to master a belly putter may take time. Practice regularly to build confidence.
• Get Feedback: Consider having a professional take a look at your setup and stroke to ensure you’re on the right track.
• Stay Relaxed: Tension can lead to poor strokes. Take a deep breath before each putt.

Key Takeaways

• A belly putter helps in stabilizing your stroke and can increase consistency.
• Choose the right putter based on length, weight, and grip to match your comfort level.
• Focus on shoulder movement and keep your eyes level during your putting motion.
• Regular practice with drills will enhance your belly putting skills and build muscle memory.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a belly putter if I’ve never used one before?
   • Absolutely! Many golfers switch to a belly putter as it can help improve consistency.
2. Why was the belly putter banned in professional golf?
   • The use of belly putters was banned for anchoring in 2016 because they were deemed to provide an unfair advantage.
3. What’s the best way to practice with a belly putter?
   • Incorporating drills that focus on distance control and stroke consistency is essential.
4. How do I choose the right length for my belly putter?
   • The putter should comfortably rest against your belly without excessive bending or reaching.
5. Can I use a belly putter for long putts?
   • Yes, belly putters can be effective for longer putts, but focus on controlling the distance through practice.
6. What grip should I use with a belly putter?
   • A traditional grip or a cross-handed grip is often recommended, but choose what feels best for you.
7. How often should I practice with my belly putter?
   • Regular practice (at least a few times a week) will help build confidence and improve your technique.
8. Is a belly putter suitable for beginners?
   • Yes, beginners can benefit from the stability and consistency that a belly putter offers.
9. What’s the difference between a belly putter and a long putter?
   • A belly putter anchors against the stomach, while a long putter is anchored in the chest.
10. Can I modify my belly putter?
    • Customizing your belly putter with different grips or weights can help tailor it to your preferences.

By following the above tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the use of a belly putter. With practice and patience, you’ll find yourself improving on the greens, and your game will thank you for it! Happy putting!