Averaging 37 putts per round????

[pganapathy]

4 hours ago, JapanDave said:

Probably average about 30ft. I am pretty sure I am reading them correct, but I must admit I leave a fair few putts short of the hole on those 4 footers. I get worried that I will go too far past the hole and be left with another putt I don't want. So I guess it is taking the safe route and NOT hitting a 4 putt, but obviously that does nothing for my score.

Am sure it is a mental issue then.  The fear of potential failure (turning a 2 putt into a 4 putt) is making you settle for a 3 putt.  I think the best way to get over this is to go for your 4 footers but aim to hit it a max of 5 feet distance (this is control you need to work on in the practice area) and then try to ensure you can hit your comebacker if need be.  Once you get the confidence that you won't miss your comebacker, you will have the confidence to go for the 4 footers and start making way more of them.  Just my 2 cents

[Mr. Desmond]

Don't know where you are located, but I'd consider a putter fitting with someone who has a SAM Lab, Edel fitting would be great ... it may help your confidence as you are evidently a fine golfer.

[JapanDave]

9 hours ago, pganapathy said:

Am sure it is a mental issue then.  The fear of potential failure (turning a 2 putt into a 4 putt) is making you settle for a 3 putt.  I think the best way to get over this is to go for your 4 footers but aim to hit it a max of 5 feet distance (this is control you need to work on in the practice area) and then try to ensure you can hit your comebacker if need be.  Once you get the confidence that you won't miss your comebacker, you will have the confidence to go for the 4 footers and start making way more of them.  Just my 2 cents

I agree, definitely a mental issue, but I guess I tend to over read those short ones.

9 hours ago, Mr. Desmond said:

Don't know where you are located, but I'd consider a putter fitting with someone who has a SAM Lab, Edel fitting would be great ... it may help your confidence as you are evidently a fine golfer.

In the name, Japan.

[vangator]

Got a new grip for my putter.  I held it to one 3 putt yesterday.  Made 4 birdie putts and a couple of nice par saves. 

[RH31]

On ‎12‎/‎23‎/‎2015 at 5:47 PM, JapanDave said:

I agree, definitely a mental issue, but I guess I tend to over read those short ones.

In the name, Japan.

If you're uncomfortable with those shorties, I wouldn't hesitate to experiment with changing some things. Try a different style putter. Stand taller or crouch down a little more. Maybe try gripping the putter a little different. Anything to shake it up a little and maybe stumble onto  something that feels good.

I'm fiddling around with a left hand low grip this winter and it feels surprisingly solid on short putts. Can't wait to hit the practice green and give it a try.

[JapanDave]

Shot a 76 today with 31 putts!!! On top of that, only one 3 putt. Ball striking of my irons was not as good as I have been playing of late today. Still managed to throw in a double bogey as well. On the up side, 4 birdies.

[JBailey]

I just started playing golf again after a long hiatus.  My putting was horrible.  I averaged 38 a round.  I read all the suggestions on this site.  The one that made the most logic to me was the Edel fitting with a concentration on how your view of the putter can affect your aim.  I'm at least a 4 hour drive to the nearest Edel pro.  So, instead, I spent hours and hours at golf stores trying out putters to find what fit me best.  I'm a traditional guy and have never even considered a mallet type putter.  However, I noticed in my trials that the longer the line on back of the putter, the easier it was to take the putter straight back, and therefore, hit the ball more accurately on my intended line.  After that revelation, I started trying mallet type putters.  The difference on the indoor practice greens was startling.  I ended up buying an Odyssey Big T mallet and it has been a godsend.  I've played about 15 rounds with it and my average has gone down to 32 putts a round from the previous average of 38.  My scoring has gone down from around 90 to mid 80's.  My distance control has been amazing, but I'm also making those remaining 3-4 footers with regularity.

I'm not suggesting you go out and buy a mallet type putter.  I'm suggesting you find out what works for you.  If I had been closer to an Edel fitter, that's what I would have done.  I'm sure there are other ways to be fitted also.

Good luck with your quest.

Later,

John