How to Putt off the Fringe
By Steve Silverman
Putting from the fringe usually doesn't present too many problems for golfers. While the grass tends to slow the putt down, it will not impact the putt adversely if you put enough power behind it in the first place. Still, it is a factor that has to be considered; if a putt is not struck correctly, the fringe can push it off course.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Hit your putt firmly if you have an uphill lie. Most golfers like an uphill lie because it tends not to have as much break as a downhill putt. When the putt comes from the fringe, you need to strike it a bit harder.
Play a downhill putt from the fringe by putting enough power behind the shot to get it to the break and then let gravity take over. You have to get the ball through the fringe, but once it starts rolling downhill, it will go well past the hole if your strike it with too much force.
Use an even stroke when putting from the fringe. Take the putter back about 10 to 12 inches and bring it forward that much after you have made contact. Don't make a stabbing motion with your putter, or you will not hit it correctly.
Grip your putter about 6 to 8 inches below the top of the grip. This will give you a greater feel for the ball as you make contact.
Breathe as you take your stroke. Many golfers tend to hold their breath any time they take an important stroke, including while they are putting. You are much more likely to have a consistent putting stroke when you breathe normally.
Tips & Warnings
Practice putting from the fringe before you begin a round. Most courses have a practice putting green that will give you a chance to get a good feel for your putting stroke.
About The Author
Steve Silverman is an award-winning writer, covering sports since 1980. Silverman authored The Minnesota Vikings: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly and Who's Better, Who's Best in Football -- The Top 60 Players of All-Time, among others, and placed in the Pro Football Writers of America awards three times. Silverman holds a Master of Science in journalism from the Medill School of Journalism.
