In the game of golf, mastering the art of putting is essential to lower your scores and become a more consistent player. One crucial aspect of putting that often gets overlooked is the “lag putt.” In this article, we’ll delve into what a lag putt is, why it’s important, and how to execute it effectively.
What is a Lag Putt?
A lag putt is a type of putting stroke used when you are at a considerable distance from the hole and your primary goal is to get the ball as close to the hole as possible with your first putt. The term “lag” implies that you are attempting to control the distance of your putt rather than trying to sink it in one stroke. The primary objective of a lag putt is to leave yourself with a short and manageable second putt to complete the hole.
Why is the Lag Putt Important?
The lag putt is crucial in golf for several reasons:
1. Reducing Three-Putts:
One of the most common ways golfers add strokes to their scorecards is by three-putting. This occurs when you fail to get your first putt close enough to the hole, leading to a challenging second putt. By mastering the lag putt, you can significantly reduce the chances of three-putting and save strokes.
2. Course Management:
A well-executed lag putt demonstrates smart course management. By leaving yourself with a short second putt, you increase the likelihood of making the next putt, ensuring you finish the hole with the fewest strokes possible.
3. Confidence Boost:
When you consistently lag the ball close to the hole on long putts, it can boost your confidence on the greens. Knowing you can control the distance effectively can help you approach your putts with a more positive mindset.
How to Execute a Lag Putt Effectively
To become proficient at lag putting, follow these tips:
1. Assess the Green:
Before taking your lag putt, assess the slope and speed of the green. Consider the terrain and any potential breaks in the putt. This assessment will help you gauge how much power to put into your stroke.
2. Focus on Speed:
The key to a successful lag putt is speed control. Use a pendulum-like putting stroke with a smooth, even tempo. Avoid decelerating through the ball, as this can lead to inconsistency in distance control.
3. Select the Right Putter:
Choose a putter that suits your preferences and allows you to feel comfortable with distance control. Some golfers prefer a blade-style putter, while others opt for mallet-style putters for added stability.
4. Practice Regularly:
Lag putting is a skill that improves with practice. Spend time on the practice green working on your lag putts from varying distances. Developing a feel for different lengths of putts is essential for success.
5. Visualization:
Visualize the path and distance of your lag putt before addressing the ball. Having a clear picture of your intended outcome can help you execute the putt more effectively.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While understanding the fundamentals of lag putting is important, it’s equally crucial to recognize and avoid common mistakes that can hinder your success:
1. Overly Aggressive Putts:
One of the most significant errors in lag putting is being too aggressive with your first putt. Trying to sink a long putt instead of focusing on getting it close can lead to three-putts if you miss. Remember that the primary goal is to leave yourself an easy second putt.
2. Neglecting Green Speed:
Failing to adjust your lag putt based on the speed of the green is a common mistake. Greens can vary significantly from course to course and even from hole to hole. Pay attention to the green’s speed and adapt your stroke accordingly.
3. Inadequate Practice:
Many golfers spend the majority of their practice time on their full swings and neglect putting. To excel in lag putting, allocate a significant portion of your practice time to working on your distance control on the greens.
4. Ignoring Slope and Breaks:
Misreading the slope and breaks on the green can result in lag putts that come up short or run well past the hole. Take the time to analyze the green’s topography and adjust your aim and stroke accordingly.
Conclusion
In golf, the lag putt is a vital component of your overall putting game. By understanding what a lag putt is, why it’s important, and how to execute it effectively, you can become a more confident and skilled putter. Remember that lag putting is a skill that improves with practice, so dedicate time to honing your distance control on the greens. By doing so, you’ll not only reduce the number of three-putts but also increase your chances of lower scores and a more enjoyable round of golf.
