The Speed Control Secret: To master speed control, you must understand your backstroke length and ensure it is measured correctly against your forward stroke length.
The Common Error: Many players have a backstroke that is too slow and too short, which forces them to try and generate power by over-accelerating and lengthening the through-stroke.
The Equidistant Drill: Set up two markers—one behind the putter and one in front. For a short putt, use a distance of seven inches back and seven inches forward to train your body to swing evenly between the two points.
How to Measure: Consistency is key when measuring. Measure from the front edge of the putter for both the distance back and the distance forward to ensure your markers are accurate.
Avoid Brain Compensation: If your backstroke is too long for the putt required, your brain will subconsciously slow the putter head down mid-stroke to compensate, leading to inconsistent contact.
Practice with Feedback: Using a tool like a Blast Motion sensor can tell you exactly how many inches your putter moved, allowing you to check if your actual stroke matches your target length.
Questions and Answers
Q: Why shouldn’t I just “feel” the power in my follow-through?
A: If you rely on the through-stroke to generate power because your backstroke was too short, you create a “jabbing” motion that makes speed control very difficult to repeat.
Q: Where should I measure from on the putter head?
A: To keep things specific and consistent, measure the distance from the front edge of the putter for both the backstroke and the forward stroke.
Q: What happens if my backstroke is too long for a short putt?
A: Your brain will sense the putter has traveled too far and will subconsciously force the putter to slow down, often resulting in a decelerated stroke.
