Best Golf Putting Training Aids to Improve Your Game

We need to use the Best Golf Putting Training Aids to improve our Game. Golf is a game of precision, and nowhere is this more evident than on the putting green. A great putt can save a mediocre hole, while a poor one can ruin an otherwise stellar performance.

Serious golfers are always on the lookout for effective training aids to improve their putting skills.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 4 golf putting training aids that can significantly enhance your game.

Before we dive into the specifics, let’s consider some key factors that make a putting training aid effective:

• Accuracy: The aid should help you improve your aim and alignment.
• Feedback: Immediate feedback on your stroke is crucial for rapid improvement.
• Versatility: The ability to practice various aspects of putting is important.
• Portability: Easy to set up and use, both at home and on the course.
• Durability: The aid should withstand frequent use.

Now, let’s explore the top 4 golf putting training aids that meet these criteria and can take your putting game to the next level.

1. PuttOut Pressure Putt Trainer

The PuttOut Pressure Putt Trainer is an impressive device that has transformed my putting practice sessions. This compact and portable aid is designed to simulate real putting conditions and provide instant feedback on your stroke.

Design and Functionality

The PuttOut’s unique parabolic curve design sets it apart from other putting aids. When you make a perfect putt, the ball rolls up the ramp and returns to you at the same distance it would have gone past the hole.

If your putt is off-line or lacks the right speed, the ball will either roll off the side or fail to reach the micro-target at the top of the ramp.

Distance Control Training

One of the key benefits of the PuttOut is it’s ability to train your distance control. The micro-target is roughly the size of a golf hole, but it’s elevated, making it more challenging to hit.

This feature helps you develop a more precise stroke and trains you to hit the sweet spot consistently.

I’ve found that regular practice with the PuttOut has significantly improved my ability to judge distance and speed on the green. It’s also helped me develop a more consistent putting stroke, as the immediate feedback allows me to make quick adjustments.

Versatility and Portability

The PuttOut’s compact design makes it incredibly portable. You can easily pack it in your golf bag or carry it to the office for some quick practice during lunch breaks.

It’s versatility allows you to practice on various surfaces, from carpet to hardwood floors, giving you the flexibility to work on your putting skills almost anywhere.

Skill Progression

As you improve, you can increase the difficulty by aiming for the micro-target more consistently. This progressive challenge keeps your practice sessions engaging and confirms continuous improvement in your putting skills.

Pro Tip

Use the PuttOut in conjunction with a putting mat to create a finish indoor practice setup. This combination allows you to work on both your stroke mechanics and distance control, even when you can’t make it to the course.

2. Pelz Putting Tutor

The Pelz Putting Tutor, developed by renowned golf instructor Dave Pelz, is a comprehensive putting aid that focuses on improving your alignment, path, and face angle at impact. This device has been a game-changer for me in terms of understanding and correcting the subtle flaws in my putting stroke.

Design and Components

The Pelz Putting Tutor consists of a base plate with alignment lines and an adjustable gate system. The base plate helps you set up square to your target line, while the gates provide immediate feedback on your stroke path and face angle at impact.

Versatility and Skill Progression

What I love about this training aid is it’s versatility. You can adjust the width of the gates to match your skill level, gradually narrowing them as your stroke improves.

This progressive challenge keeps you engaged and continually pushing your limits.

Stroke Consistency

One of the most valuable aspects of the Pelz Putting Tutor is it’s ability to help you develop a consistent, repeatable stroke. By providing visual and physical feedback on your stroke path, it trains your muscles to follow the fix motion time after time.

I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my putting accuracy since incorporating the Pelz Putting Tutor into my practice routine. It’s particularly effective for identifying and correcting common issues like pushing or pulling putts.

Alignment Training

The base plate’s alignment lines are crucial for developing a proper setup. They help you position your feet, shoulders, and putter face square to the target line.

This consistent setup is the foundation for a reliable putting stroke.

Face Angle Feedback

The gates provide feedback on your stroke path and on your putter face angle at impact. If your putter face is open or closed at impact, the ball will hit the gates, giving you immediate feedback to make necessary adjustments.

Portability and Durability

While not as compact as the PuttOut, the Pelz Putting Tutor is still relatively portable. It’s durable construction confirms it can withstand frequent use, both indoors and outdoors.

Key Insight

Pay close attention to the feedback from the gates. If you’re consistently hitting one side, it’s a clear indication that you need to adjust your stroke path or face angle at impact.

This immediate feedback is invaluable for making quick corrections and developing a more consistent stroke.

3. SKLZ Accelerator Pro

The SKLZ Accelerator Pro is a putting mat with a difference. While many putting mats simply provide a flat surface to practice on, the Accelerator Pro is designed to train your putting tempo and acceleration through the ball.

Unique Design Features

What makes this training aid unique is it’s built-in ball return system and alignment guides. The mat features printed alignment lines that help you set up correctly and visualize your target line.

But the real magic happens when you make your stroke.

Ball Return System

The Accelerator Pro has a slight upslope and is designed to capture your ball and return it to you automatically. This feature allows for rapid repetition, which is crucial for developing muscle memory and a consistent stroke.

Distance and Speed Training

The mat is marked with different distances, and the ball return system is calibrated to only return putts that have been struck with the fix speed for each distance. This feature trains you to develop the right acceleration and tempo for putts of varying lengths.

Stroke Acceleration Training

I’ve found the SKLZ Accelerator Pro particularly useful for developing a smooth, accelerating stroke. Many golfers struggle with decelerating through impact, which can lead to inconsistent distance control and accuracy.

This mat trains you to maintain acceleration through the ball, resulting in more consistent putts.

Visual Feedback

The alignment lines on the mat provide excellent visual feedback for your setup and stroke path. They help you ensure that your putter face is square at address and that your stroke follows the intended line.

Versatility

While primarily designed for indoor use, the Accelerator Pro can also be used outdoors on a flat surface. This versatility allows you to maintain your practice routine regardless of weather conditions or access to a golf course.

Skill Progression

As you become more proficient, you can challenge yourself by aiming for the smaller targets at longer distances. This progression helps you continually improve your distance control and accuracy.

Pro Tip

Start with shorter putts and gradually work your way back as you become more consistent. This progression will help you develop a feel for the fix tempo and acceleration for putts of different lengths.

Pay attention to the feedback from the ball return system – it’s telling you whether you’ve struck the putt with the fix speed for that distance.

4. Eyeline Golf Putting Alignment Mirror

The Eyeline Golf Putting Alignment Mirror is a simple yet incredibly effective training aid that has become a staple in my practice routine. This device focuses on one of the most critical aspects of putting: alignment.

Design and Functionality

The mirror is designed to be placed on the ground, allowing you to stand over it and check your eye position, shoulder alignment, and putter face angle. It features alignment lines that help you confirm your eyes are directly over the ball and your putter face is square to the target line.

Instant Visual Feedback

What I appreciate most about the Eyeline mirror is it’s ability to provide instant visual feedback. It’s one thing to think your setup is fix, but it’s another to see it for yourself.

This immediate feedback allows you to make quick adjustments and develop a consistent, repeatable setup.

Stroke Path Training

The mirror also includes removable guide rails that can be used to check your stroke path. These rails provide physical feedback if your putter strays off the intended path, helping you groove a more consistent stroke.

Versatility

While primarily focused on alignment, the Eyeline mirror can be used to work on various aspects of your putting stroke. You can practice your takeaway, check your stroke path, and even use it to ensure your shoulders stay level throughout the stroke.

Portability

The compact and lightweight design of the Eyeline mirror makes it highly portable. You can easily carry it in your golf bag and use it for a quick alignment check before a round or during practice sessions.

Eye Position Training

One of the most valuable aspects of this mirror is it’s ability to help you consistently position your eyes directly over the ball. This is a crucial aspect of putting that many golfers overlook, and getting it right can significantly improve your accuracy.

Putter Face Angle Feedback

The alignment lines on the mirror provide clear feedback on your putter face angle at address. This helps you ensure that you’re starting each putt with the face square to your target line.

Skill Development

I’ve found that regular use of the Eyeline mirror has significantly improved my setup consistency. This, in turn, has led to more accurate putts and increased confidence on the green.

Key Insight

Don’t rush your setup when using the mirror. Take the time to check each aspect of your alignment carefully.

Over time, this attention to detail will become second nature, improving your setup even when you’re not using the mirror.

Integrating These Aids into Your Practice Routine

These four putting training aids – the PuttOut Pressure Putt Trainer, Pelz Putting Tutor, SKLZ Accelerator Pro, and Eyeline Golf Putting Alignment Mirror – offer a comprehensive approach to improving your putting game. Each focuses on different aspects of putting, from alignment and stroke path to distance control and tempo.

Creating a Balanced Practice Session

To get the most out of these aids, it’s important to incorporate them into a well-structured practice routine. Here’s a sample routine that uses all four aids:

1. Start with the Eyeline Golf Putting Alignment Mirror to ensure your setup is fix.
2. Move on to the Pelz Putting Tutor to work on your stroke path and face angle at impact.
3. Use the SKLZ Accelerator Pro to practice distance control and tempo.
4. Finish with the PuttOut Pressure Putt Trainer to simulate real putting conditions and work on your precision.

Frequency and Duration

Consistency is key when it comes to improving your putting. Aim for at least 3-4 practice sessions per week, each lasting 20-30 minutes.

This regular practice will help ingrain the fix movements and techniques into your muscle memory.

Tracking Progress

Keep a log of your practice sessions, noting your performance with each aid. This will help you identify areas of improvement and track your progress over time.

Many golfers find that seeing their improvement in numbers can be a great motivator to continue practicing.

Transferring Skills to the Course

While these aids are excellent for practice, it’s important to transfer the skills you’ve developed to the golf course. Try to incorporate some of the visualization and alignment techniques you’ve learned during your actual rounds of golf.

Customizing Your Approach

As you become more familiar with these aids, you may find that you benefit more from certain ones. Don’t be afraid to adjust your practice routine to focus more heavily on the aids that are providing you with the most improvement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best putting training aid for beginners?

For beginners, the Eyeline Golf Putting Alignment Mirror is an excellent starting point. It helps establish proper alignment and setup, which are crucial foundations for a good putting stroke.

Can putting training aids really improve my game?

Yes, putting training aids can significantly improve your game when used consistently and correctly. They provide feedback and help develop muscle memory for a more consistent putting stroke.

How often should I practice with putting training aids?

Aim for at least 3-4 practice sessions per week, each lasting 20-30 minutes. Consistency is key to seeing improvement in your putting skills.

Are expensive putting training aids worth the investment?

While there are effective budget-friendly options, high-quality putting aids like the ones mentioned in this article can provide more comprehensive feedback and training. The investment can be worth it for serious golfers looking to significantly improve their putting.

Can I use putting training aids indoors?

Yes, many putting training aids, including all four mentioned in this article, can be used indoors. This makes them excellent for year-round practice, regardless of weather conditions.

How long does it take to see improvement from using putting training aids?

With consistent practice, you may start to see improvements in your putting within a few weeks. However, significant and lasting improvements typically take several months of regular practice.

Do professional golfers use putting training aids?

Yes, many professional golfers use putting training aids as part of their practice routines. These aids help them maintain their skills and work on specific aspects of their putting stroke.

Can putting training aids help with the mental aspect of putting?

While primarily focused on the physical aspects of putting, many training aids can indirectly help with the mental game by building confidence through consistent practice and improvement.

How do I choose the right putting training aid for me?

Consider your specific putting weaknesses and choose an aid that addresses those areas. It’s also helpful to try out different aids if possible, or read reviews from other golfers with similar skill levels.

Are there any drawbacks to using putting training aids?

The main potential drawback is becoming overly reliant on the aid. It’s important to practice without the aid as well and to transfer the skills you’ve developed to actual putting on the golf course.

Key Takeaways

1. Consistent practice with quality putting training aids can significantly improve your putting skills.
2. The PuttOut Pressure Putt Trainer is excellent for developing distance control and precision.
3. The Pelz Putting Tutor helps improve alignment, stroke path, and face angle at impact.
4. The SKLZ Accelerator Pro is great for working on tempo and acceleration through the ball.
5. The Eyeline Golf Putting Alignment Mirror is crucial for developing proper setup and alignment.