Balance point during putting

This image shows the ideal weight placement for putting at address. It shows weight evenly spread between the heels and toes in both feet, but favoring the left foot with a 60-40 split. So, why is this ideal weight distribution for putting?

60% weight on the left foot

There are 3 reasons your weight should be left:

1)      This weight distribution helps your hands pull the putter head through. The putting stroke must be a pulling action in order to make sure the putter remains stable through the impact area. The easiest way to visualize this is when you go to the airport with your golf bag you will naturally pull the bag behind.  It will travel in a straight line as it is being pulled; but if you try to push the bag, it will go off line very easily. Your putting stroke is the same – the putter head is the golf bag.

2)      Setting your weight into your front foot activates the muscles in that leg, which helps you anchor yourself into a solid, grounded position.

3)      As the picture above left shows, having your weight forward encourages the putter to stay lower in the follow through. That helps maintain true roll as opposed to the putter rising too much and almost chipping the ball into the air.

Balance heel to toe evenly

Problems of poor weight distribution in your putting address

3 methods to feel the correct balance at address

1)      Practice with your toes up as with the full swing. The pressure down through your feet should be evenly spread between the ball of your foot and heel pads. Practicing with toes curled up is a good way to ensure you are properly balanced.

2)      Eyes closed – When your eyes are closed, your sense of your balance will increase.  In your address, with your eyes closed, move your weight from toe to heel and from left foot to right foot, gaining a sense of where your balance is. As your sense increases, finish your address with more weight on your left foot and a balanced position from toe to heel. It should feel very strong and stable.

3)      Put a club on the ground on your toe line and hold a club shaft against your thighs to check that your leg and hip alignment is square to your toe line.  This will fix any twisting at address and encourage a more neutral putter path.