What is a lag putt?

A lag putt in golf is a putt that is intentionally hit with less power than a normal putt, aiming to stop the ball close to the hole without going in. It is typically used when the ball is a significant distance from the hole, and the golfer wants to avoid overshooting the target.

Lag putting is a crucial skill in golf, as it allows players to control the distance of their putts and avoid three-putting. This is especially important on greens with significant undulations or slopes, where a powerful putt can easily roll past the hole.

Technique

The key to lag putting is to control the speed of the stroke. This can be achieved by using a shorter backswing and a smoother, more controlled follow-through.

Golfers should also focus on making solid contact with the ball and keeping their eyes on the target throughout the stroke.

Benefits

Lag putting offers several benefits for golfers:

• Improved control: It allows players to precisely control the distance of their putts.
• Reduced three-putting: By avoiding overshooting the hole, lag putting minimizes the chance of three-putting.
• Increased confidence: Mastering lag putting can boost a golfer's confidence on the greens.

Practice

Lag putting is a skill that requires practice. Golfers can improve their lag putting by:

• Practicing on a putting green: Spend time hitting putts from various distances, focusing on controlling the speed of the stroke.
• Using a putting mirror: A putting mirror can help golfers visualize their stroke and ensure they are making solid contact with the ball.
• Working with a golf instructor: A qualified instructor can provide personalized tips and guidance on lag putting technique.

Conclusion

Lag putting is an essential skill for golfers of all levels. By mastering this technique, players can improve their putting accuracy, reduce three-putting, and ultimately lower their scores.