Putting Practice at Home: 5 Effective Putting Drills That Don't Require a Putting Green

Who says you need a putting green to sharpen your skills? If you're like many golfers over 50, balancing the time between work, family, and golf can be a challenge, and sometimes, braving the elements or making a trip to the course just isn’t feasible.

With that said, you can still work on your putting game right in the comfort of your own home with these house-based drills that will make your putting as solid as a rock (or as solid as that sweet 10-footer you sank last weekend).

Check out these tips to get those putts rolling with precision and confidence.

One of the easiest ways to practice your putting stroke at home is with the trusty towel drill. Simply lay a towel flat on the floor, creating a target area where you’ll aim to roll your putts. The goal is to roll the ball so it lands on the towel or stops on it without sliding past the edges.

This drill helps you focus on distance control and maintaining a smooth stroke. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your putting practice from turning into a game of dodge-the-bouncing ball — your spouse or pets will thank you!

For those of you who prefer a bit of challenge mixed with your practice, the coin or tee drill is perfect. Place a coin or a tee on the floor as your target. The idea is to putt the ball so it hits the coin or tee directly or lands very close to it.

This drill will help improve your accuracy and develop a steady hand. It’s like trying to sink a shot into a tiny cup, except you don’t have to worry about the wind or pesky sand traps.

Need to work on your alignment? The doorway drill is your answer. Stand in a doorway with your putter and practice your putting stroke while aiming for a spot in the middle of the doorframe.

This drill helps you maintain proper alignment and ensures that your putter face is square at impact. Plus, it doubles as a great excuse to finally practice your putting without having to worry about tripping over the family cat!

This one’s for all the detail-oriented golfers out there. Lay a sheet of paper flat on the floor and use it to practice your putting stroke. The paper should be positioned so that the ball rolls directly along it.

This drill helps with keeping your putter face square and ensures a smooth stroke. If you’re struggling to keep the ball on the paper, it’s a good indicator that you might need to work on your stroke path or follow-through. Think of it as the golf equivalent of a fine-tuning session!

If you’ve got a full-length mirror at home, you’re in luck. Position yourself in front of the mirror and practice your putting stroke while watching your reflection.

This drill is invaluable for self-correction, as you can see if your putting stroke is straight or if your posture needs adjustment. It’s like having a personal putting coach right in your living room—minus the golf cart and the coffee breaks!

Practicing your putting at home can be both effective and enjoyable. By incorporating these drills into your routine, you’ll find that your short game improves without ever having to step foot on a putting green.

Remember, it’s not just about the quantity of practice but the quality. Whether it’s using a towel to perfect your distance control or a mirror to fine-tune your stroke, these drills will keep you sharp and ready for your next round. Keep practicing, stay positive, and most importantly, enjoy the game. Your best putts are just around the corner.

To better golf,

Matt Stephens

Founder & Inventor, Pyramid Golf