Tom Stickney Reveals Seven Putting Fixes to Lower Scores

The Path to a Better Stroke

Most golfers choke on the short game, but the fix usually hides in the basics. Tom Stickney laid out seven non-negotiables for turning into a better putter. This guidance comes straight from recent report by Golf.com. The focus stays on fundamentals any player can apply right on the practice green. Stickney’s approach cuts through the noise of complex theories. It centers on balance and simple mechanics. These changes don’t require a total overhaul, rather the need for attention to detail.

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The article, co-authored with Zephyr Melton, targets the core issues that plague amateur golfers. Golf.com notes that better putting starts with these specific fundamentals. The list is designed to be actionable for players of all skill levels.

The Seven Essential Fundamentals

According to Golf.com, the first step involves instantly balancing the setup. The reporting highlights a clever practice hack to achieve this balance. Without a stable base, the rest of the stroke falls apart. The article details how to correct weight distribution before the first stroke.

1. You need a neutral position that lets the arms swing freely, not just standing still like a statue. Stickney emphasizes that a poor setup guarantees a poor result.

2. Focus on the grip and hand position. Golf.com reports that the hands must work together as a single unit. Any separation here leads to face rotation issues.

3. Eyes need to be positioned directly over the ball. This ensures the golfer sees the true line.

4. Work the pendulum motion of the arms. The shoulders should drive the stroke, not the wrists. Stickney argues that too much wrist action kills consistency.

5. Don’t forget to control the pace. Ensure a lag putting drill to feel the correct speed for different distances during practice or your warm up each round.

6. Be patient, read the greens. Players need to look at the break from multiple angles

7. The putter face must stay square through impact on the follow-through. Golf.com explains that these seven elements work in unison. Ignoring one can break the entire chain. The article makes it clear that mastery comes from repetition of these basics.

Why These Basics Matter Now

Many players chase advanced technology to fix their putting. They buy new mallets or expensive lasers. Yet, reports suggest that technique often trumps gear. Stickney’s list proves that the human element remains the key. A balanced setup costs nothing but time to learn. The report implies that even pros can benefit from revisiting these roots. It is a reminder that the game is built on simple truths.

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For the average golfer, this advice is a game changer. It removes the guesswork from the short game. Instead of hoping for a good roll, players can rely on a process. The analysis from Golf.com shows that consistency is the ultimate goal. When the setup is right, the rest flows naturally. This approach reduces anxiety on the greens. It turns a high-pressure moment into a routine execution. Stickney’s method offers a clear path forward for anyone stuck in a slump.