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The Fine Art of Finishing: Anna Nordqvist’s Proven Techniques for a Perfect Putting Stroke
Anna Nordqvist, a respected professional golfer known for her remarkable putting skills, frequently enough emphasizes the importance of a consistent and repeatable putting stroke. One of the first things she teaches is the need for a balanced and prepared stance. When setting up for a putt, align your feet parallel to the target line and distribute your weight evenly, with a slight pressure on the balls of your feet. This setup not only provides stability but also allows for a smooth stroke without overcompensation or jerky movements.
The real magic happens in the execution of the actual putting stroke. Nordqvist stresses the importance of a pendulum-like motion, where the putter head moves in a straight line from target to target. Imagine the putter head as the pendulum in a school clock, moving back and forth in a consistent rhythm. Beginners might focus on a shorter arc, about 10 inches back and forward, ensuring the putter face stays square throughout. More advanced players can work on expanding this arc while maintaining face control. A key tip from Nordqvist is to ensure your hands never move forward of the putter face during the swing, to avoid unwanted face rotation.
The follow-through is another critical element often overlooked. Nordqvist recommends a smooth follow-through where the putter head continues along the same path as it approached, finishing softly but fully extended forward. This prevents any braking mid-stroke that could affect the putt’s direction and speed. To practice this, simply visualize keeping the putter face directed towards the cup throughout and beyond impact. Advanced players can use a mirror to observe their putter’s path and face angle for more precise guidance. By integrating these key points into your routine, you’ll find your putting consistency and accuracy improving markedly, turning those crucial short-range pars and birdies more routine than fluke.
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