Use One Hand for Solid Putting

Putting with one hand improves your ability to sink them with two, according to Jackie Burke.

PuttingThis tip comes from Masters champ Jackie Burke, widely regarded as one of the best putters of his day and, perhaps, ever.

The tip is relatively simple: practice two-footers with your left hand only. Start with two-footers, and bang several dozen of them in. It may be difficult at first, but your stroke will become smoother as you continue. You’ll strike your putts more solidly. This helps to eliminate the dreaded breakdown of the left wrist.

When you’re confident in your ability to make the two-footers, move back to 10 feet. When you’re comfortable with that, put your right hand back on the putter. You’ll be surprised at the difference.

This drill works for cross-handed putters, “claw grip” putters, and more. According to Burke, it may be the quickest way to turn you into a good if not great putter nearly instantly.

5 thoughts on “Use One Hand for Solid Putting”

  1. Is one handed putting from any distance on the green legal per PGA/USGA rules? I am an abled bodied two handed and right handed player and find that within three feet I am more consistent and accurate using my standard short putter and using only my right arm and hand swing. My partners argue that it may not be legal.

  2. I have been putting One Handed for 16 years..would never switch back.. However, it may not be for everyone..
    jp

  3. I started putting 1-handed several years ago, using the right hand (I’m a righty). I grip half way off the grip, hold the top of the club firmly against the inner forearm, and stand slightly open.

    I just ordered some club parts to build a putter. I want to try facing the hole (shoes parallel to the line) and swing the club 1-handed more like pitching a ball underhand.

    I have also switched off & on looking down the target line or at the hole instead of looking at the ball when striking the ball. I’m hoping this new setup works better with that too.

  4. Glad to hear one-hand putting is allowed. I have started using it for long putts, the ball is closer to the hole and the set-up time is faster speeding play of the game. I use my right hand (I am right handed) with wrist away from the club shaft about 30 degrees.

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