A putting approach that deliberately moves āaway fromā standard coaching cues is gaining traction on practice ā¢greens adn in online instruction circles as a potential remedy for chronic shortāgame accuracy⣠issues. Advocates describe a system ā¤that prioritizes refined stroke mechanics, sensory āfeedback and pace rather⤠than rigid textbook āpositions, promising steadier results on midātoāshort putts – a claim that has drawn trial by club players and teachers alike. The label fits theā common definition of “unorthodox” – departing fromā customary practice – and the conversation now focuses on whether the compromises āof an atypical stance and stroke produce ā¤measurable improvements in putting outcomes.Note: ā”Unorthodox” is also the title of āa Netflix miniseries about a young Hasidic Jewish ā£woman who leaves her community for Berlin – unrelated to the putting concept discussed here.
Coach Demonstrates⣠Unorthodox Eye Alignment That Improves Aim and Impact
At a recent practiceāgreen session that drew notice, an ā¢instructor unveiled an unorthodox ā£eyeāpositioning intended to sharpen both direction and strike by altering how the āplayer visually referencesā the ātarget line. ā¢Observers reported the coach telling rightāhanded golfers to position their dominant eye about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) inside the target line rather than directly above the⣠ball. That slight shift creates ā¢a new sightline that tends toā promote a square putter faceā at impact and encourages a more neutral path. According to āthe instructor, the tweak helps prevent theā face from closing through impact and improves accuracy on downhill and breaking putts. This unorthodox putting technique could be the fix your putting needs for players who haven’t found ā¤consistent face ācontrol and distance on⤠the greens using “eyes āover the ball”⣠cues.
The coach provided a clear setup routineā any golfer can follow. Start with⢠a relaxed⢠stance approximately shoulderāwidth (roughly 20-24 inches), a small knee bend and a hip⣠hinge⢠placing the eyes roughly 34-38 inches off the ground depending on height. then tilt the head so the dominant eye sitsā 1-2ā inches inside the target line and check that the putter face looks square to that new line. Key technical points include a putter⤠loft near 3-4 degrees, hands slightly forward of the ball at address, and either a straightāback/straightāthrough stroke or a āvery āmild āarc based on individual⣠release tendencies. Suggested practice drills:
- Gate drill with alignment āsticks to confirm the putter ātravels square to the revised sightline;
- oneāhand pendulum drillā (30-60 āseconds per hand) to build wrist stability and consistent contact;
- Mirror work to visually lock⤠in dominant eye placement until āit feels natural.
These checks establish a repeatable preāshot routine that’s approachable for beginners and⣠tunable for lower handicappers.
Moving from the range into actual rounds,⢠the coach explained how the eye offset changes reads and pace decisions. With a different visualā anchor many players report⢠the putter face more reliably returns to ā£square, helping on ā¢breaking shots and cutting down face rotation that produces pulls and pushes. The āinstructor offered measurable practice targets: make ā¤40-50 consecutive putts from 3 ā£feet, achieve ~60% success āon 8-12 footers during practice, and aim āto lower threeāputt frequency by at least 20% inside six weeks. To transfer the change into real play use⣠situational drills⤠– ālagging to a towel at 30-40⤠feet to simulate greenā speed and pressure, and practicing holing downhill leftātoāright and uphill rightātoāleft putts to see how the new⤠sightline altersā reads.Common faults and fixes include:
- “Looking through” instead of focusing on the ball – remedy by fixing the⤠gaze on the ball’s equator;
- Compensating with ā£excess shoulder rotation – correct āwith⤠shorter⣠strokes and mirror feedback;
- Gripāpressure shifts – keep a light, consistent hold and test tension in 10āminute blocks⢠to find a repeatable feel.
Equipment and ā¤the rules of the game were part ofā the discussion.The coach recommended ensuring putter length and lie work with the adjusted eye position: many players benefit ā¤from a length that allows a slight forward press ⣠so the eyes maintain the intended offset ā£without excessiveā stooping. Subtle alignment aids – a single sightline on the putter head or a discrete headcover stripe – can help preserve the new visual reference duringā play. Crucially, the āmethod adheresā to the Rules of Golf: it involves no anchoring and uses standard club characteristics acceptable under R&A and ā¢USGA regulations.To deal with course variables, slightly alter stroke lengthā and face angle for quicker greens (higher Stimpmeter numbers) and windy conditions; test changes on practice greens with known Stimpmeter values to dial in feel.
The coach also tied the physical adjustment to the psychological and āstrategic elements of scoring. He suggested a phased twoāweek rollout: phase oneā – build baseline consistency with 15-20 minutes of daily drills; phase ātwo – introduce pressure through matchplay or timed āroutines; phase three – use the alignment during full rounds targeting a 0.5 stroke reduction on scoring holes. The plan catered to different learning⣠preferences – visual players use video and mirror checks, kinesthetic learners try blindfolded stroking and oneāhand work, and analytic types monitor statsā like putts per round⣠and make percentage by distance. With disciplined practice and onācourse application theā approach can become a practical component of a⤠player’s shortāgame toolbox.
Grip⤠Adjustment ā£and wrist Lock Techniques Recommended by Tour Players for Cleaner Roll
At tour level the ā¤smallest adjustments at address often yield the ācleanest roll. Observers note the best results appear when golfers adopt a mild forward shaft lean of 2-4°,a shoulderāwidth stance (ā18-20 in),and position the ball just slightly forward of center. That setup produces aā shallower attack angle so the 3-4° builtāin loft on most putters ācan deliver topspin quickly rather than a prolonged skid. Playersā who pair a light, steady grip (about 2-3 on a 10āpoint scale) āwith a controlled wristālock report improved distance control and fewer threeāputts. From setup to stroke, initiate motion from the ā¤shoulders and keep forearms and hands actingā together to preserve the initial roll.
To create a reliable wristālock and compatible grip, follow a simple progression appropriate for all levels. First, pick a grip that discourages unwanted wrist action – for example, reverseāoverlap or a claw for those prone to flicking.Next,ā set the forward shaft lean and brace the lead wrist to a neutral or slightly extended position⤠rather than letting it collapse. Remember anchoring was banned inā 2016, so any longā shaft must ābe ā£used free of ā¢body anchoring.⤠Useful drills include:
- Mirror checks to confirm eyes over or slightlyā inside the⤠ball and minimal wrist hinge;
- Towelāunderāarmpits drill to ensure the shoulders – not the wrists ā¢- drive the stroke;
- Gateāandātee exercises āto encourage a square face at impact.
these checkpoints promote consistency when stakes are high.
Wristālock should be thought of as a controlled restriction, not a rigid freeze: limit wrist ā¤break to roughly 10-15° through the stroke to produce a shoulderādriven, āpendulumālike motion. beginners can feel ā£the movement with oneāhand drills using the ā£lead hand; ā£advanced players benefit from highāframeārate video (120 fps) to analyse wrist angles and sequencing. A practical benchmark is getting the ball⣠to true roll⣠within 12-18 inches of contact; if⤠the ball hops or delays rolling beyond that,⢠reduce loft at impact with a⢠slight forward ā¤press or relaxā grip pressure for cleaner āfaceātoāball⤠contact.
Gear and surface conditions influence which technique suits you. Larger, heavier grips help dampen wrist action and assist those fighting a flick; fingertip grips increase feedback but require better wrist discipline. Putter loft and face technology⤠matter – 3-4° of loft is typical āand pairs wellā with a neutral attack angle to⢠encourage topspin. on fast, firm greensā shorten your stroke and trust the roll; on slow or wet surfaces lengthen followāthrough to preserve pace.Test new methods in practice rounds rather than competitive events so you can adapt to true green⣠speeds without risking scorecard consequences. This unorthodox putting ātechnique could⢠be the fix⢠your putting needs, but give itā time to bed in before using it under tournament pressure.
Turn technical workā into āscoring gains with structured practice and āmental routines.A sample session could be: 15-20 minutes warming up on short putts (3-6 ft), 20 minutes of lag⣠practice from 20-50 ft using target circles⤠and logging misses, plus weekly video review. A metronome or internal count helps establishā a 2:1⣠backswingātoāfollowāthrough ratio for steady tempo.⢠Typical errors – gripping⢠too tightly, early wrist⤠collapse and overāreadingā breaks – are corrected through the drills and ā¢a preāputt routine that includes one committed practice stroke⣠and a single speed thought. By combining ā¤grip tweaks, wristālock mechanics, equipment selection and course strategy, players from beginners to lowāhandicappers can achieve a truer roll and cut putts per round.
Body Positioning and Stroke Length prescriptions to Eliminate Yips and Decelerations
Coaches often find the antidote to poor speed control and yips starts with aā disciplined, repeatable setup that lowers variability in the stroke. ā¢Establish a stance about shoulderāwidth (roughly 8-12 inches between insteps), a āslight knee bend and a spineā tilt of 5-8° forward so the eyesā sit ⣠directly over or just inside the⣠ball. From āthere adopt a neutral grip with the shaft leaning slightly forward so hands ārest 1-2 inches ahead of the ball at address – promoting forward roll and reducing skid. Setup checkpoints:
- feet and toe lines parallel to the target line,
- eyes over or marginally insideā the ball,
- minimal wrist hinge so the hands act as an extension āof ā¤the shoulders,
- soft, engaged knees and hips with no active lowerābody shifting during the stroke.
These fundamentals create āthe biomechanical platform for a shoulder⤠pendulum and limit the small, āerratic motions that produce yips and late deceleration.
Coaches then⣠prescribe measurable stroke lengths and ā¢tempos to stop deceleration before impact.ā A common guideline is to scale backswing roughly 0.8-1.0 inch per foot ofā putt – as a ā£notable example, a 6āfoot⤠putt uses about a 5-6⢠inch backswing. Pair that with a steady rhythm such as a backswing:forward tempo near 2:1 to encourage acceleration throughā the ball. The objective is no deceleration at contact; the putter should be accelerating as it passes the ball toward the hole. Helpful drills:
- impact⤠tape or a marker to verify a single, repeatable strike point,
- metronome practiceā (60-80 BPM) to internalize tempo,
- the “oneāinch test” on very short putts to feel ā¤consistent acceleration through the ball.
These prescriptions lead to better distance control and fewer decelerated failures.
For players plagued by yips, shifting the motion into larger muscles reduces dependence on spasmodic fingers. Adopt a shoulderādriven pendulum stroke where ā¢the arms swing from the chest and wrists remain passive with the head steady. ā£Variations supported by this unorthodox thinking include fixedāarm chest strokes (nonāanchored) or a crossāhand⢠grip⢠to interrupt the reflex loop that produces āyips.ā A stepwise ātransition plan:
- Practice three minutes daily with a⣠broom handle across the chest to feel shoulder rotation;
- Progressā to a ā¤short indoor putter concentrating only on ā¢backstroke length;
- Introduce eyesāclosed strokes ā¤to build proprioceptive consistency.
Set targets such as reducing wrist hinge to under 5° on short putts and performingā 100 shoulderādriven repetitions per session until you can roll 10⣠of 12 oneāfoot targets reliably.
Weekly practice structure ties mechanics to onācourse results. A sample week couldā include:
- Alignment and shortāputt competition – three sets ā¢of 20 fiveāfooters aiming for ā„70% makes,
- Distance ladder – tees at 3,ā 6, 9, 12, 15 feetā with 10 putts each using prescribed backswing lengths and tracking proximity within⣠a 24āinch circle,
- Yips desensitization – 50 shoulder strokes with eyes closed followedā by 50 openāeye strokes,
- Greenāreading⢠under pressure – a mock 9āhole ā£sequence where⣠every lag inside⤠6 feet counts as a “save” and conversion rate isā tallied.
Practice across conditions – fast, windy mornings and slower, dewier evenings – to learn how green speed and grain affectā your stroke length āand tempo. Use a concise 5ācount preāshot routine during competition, lock to a single speed target and maintain oneā forward acceleration thought to avoid lateāstroke deceleration.
Equipment and ācourse management connect the technical work to lower scores. Ensure your putter dynamics fit your method – many fitters suggest ⢠3-4° of⢠loft for modern⣠greens to encourage forward rollā and a grip size that limits wrist action (oversized grips can ā¢help reduce flicking). Troubleshooting checklist:
- If the ball skids – add about 1° of loft or increase forward press ~0.5-1 inch,
- Ifā putts finish short – lengthen backswing by 10-15% or slightly quicken tempo,
- If yips appear under pressure – try a⣠crossāhand or claw grip and focus on shoulder rotation drills for two weeks.
On the course, favour lagging to the high side on fast greens and adoptā conservative twoāputt tactics āinto strong winds. Over an 8āweek block, set milestones such as a 10%ā drop in threeāputts, a 15% lift in make rate⢠from 6-8 feet, and consistent lag conversions to within 18 āinches.with disciplined setup, āstroke prescriptions, targeted drills and equipment tuning, golfers from novices to low handicappers can āreduce decelerationā and the yips⢠while ā£improving scoring consistency.
Practice Drill Featuring Parallel Ball Line Test to Calibrate Speed and⣠path
Presented as a practical⤠field routine, the parallel ball line test is an evidenceāoriented calibration drill that links shortāgame feel to measurable speed and path outcomes, enhancing putting consistency and scoring. The goal is straightforward: train eyeāhand timing so the putter face is square āat ā¢impact and the ball’s āroll matches green⤠speed. For reference, many public⢠courses⢠run between Stimpmeter 8-11 ft, so tailor practice targets to that range. The drill also reinforces tempo and rhythm ā¢- qualities that transfer between putting and the full swing.
Set up clearly: lay⣠an alignment stick or⤠string to mark the ā¢intended line, place two balls parallel to that line 6-12 inches apart and ā£station them 6-15 feet from the ā¢hole depending on training focus. Take your normal setup āwith eyes over or slightly inside the ball line and a shaft lean that gives roughly 3-4° loft at address.⣠hit ā10 strokes trying to send each ball between the parallel markers and score whether⣠each ball tracks inside, square or outside āthe corridor. The drill exposes toeā or heelāside tendencies in real⣠time and helps diagnose faceāpath relationships beyond subjective feel.This⤠unorthodox putting technique couldā be the fix your putting needs āwhen recurring direction ā¢errors appear.
Progress the drill by difficulty and specificity. Beginners tighten spacing (e.g., 6 ft with a 6 in gap) to focus on centered⣠strikes. Intermediates⤠extend distance to 12-20 ft and vary spacing āto challenge speed āand path control.ā Low handicappers add pressure (e.g., 8/10 accomplished runs) and simulate subtle breaks by angling the alignment stick 1-2°. Variations:
- Parallel ā£Ball Drill – basic calibration, 6-12⣠in spacing, 6-15 ft distance
- Accent Speed Drill – same ālayout but aim to leave the ball withinā 6 inches past the hole
- Path Correction Drill⤠– place a small tee near āthe putter toe to observe rotation throughā impact
These versions serveā visual, kinesthetic āand analytical learners alike.
Common errors show up quickly and are straightforward to correct. If balls consistently travel left of the corridor, ācheck for an open face at impact or an outsideāin path – correct with a gate drill using ā¤tees to promote squareātoāsquare motion. If they run right,look for a closed face or insideāout path and address with mirror faceāangle checks and a reduced takeaway. Technical targets: aim for a nearā1:1 backstrokeātoāfollowāthrough ratio with a slight forward press, and keep the ā¤putterhead moving ā£lowātoāhigh through impact to encourage true roll. Adjust for conditions – on very fast, dry greens shorten stroke length by about 20-30%; on slow or damp greens ramp up acceleration through the ball. these ināround adjustments help decide when to go for āaā birdie putt⢠or⢠play conservatively for two.
Make this drill part of preāround routines for better scoring. Spend 5-10 minutes on the practice green running the parallel ātest to⤠calibrate to the day’s Stimpmeter; doing so regularly can lead to āfewer threeāputts. Check equipment⢠– putterā loft, lengthā and grip size should match your motion (a longer putter ā¢can definitely help players withā limited shoulder rotation). Couple the physical work with a short preāshot routine, visualizing the ball rolling between the parallels and setting a numeric session goal (e.g., 80% control at 10-15 ft). Used ā£consistently, the drill provides repeatable metrics and practical scenarios that convert practice into lower scores.
when to useā the Unorthodox Method During Competition and How to Transitionā Safely
Competition ā¢context dictates when switching from a⢠conventional technique makes sense. Consider the unorthodox method if a persistent mechanical flaw or reading issue is costing you strokes – for example, frequent threeāputts inside 30 feet, inability toā judge pace on greens ā£running 9-11ā ft on theā Stimpmeter, or a repeatable directional miss despite⢠sound alignment.Remember anchoring āthe club to⤠the body is banned under the Rules of Golf, so any variation must be nonāanchored and⤠fully legal.⤠before switching, use a ādecision checklist: confirm the fault reproduces in practice, ensure the choice āconforms to the Rules, and allow at least one full practice ā¢session (30-45 minutes) on tournament greens before deploying it in rounds.
Transitioning safely means a staged, metricsābased plan to protect confidence in pressure moments. Reaffirm basics: set ball position slightly forward of center for a shorter arc, adopt hipāwidth stance, ā¢keep eyes over or slightly inside the ball, and use a shoulderālead pendulum with minimal wrist motion.Equipment notes: standard⤠putter lengths run ~33-35 inches,while long⣠putters are typically 48-52 inches – if you choose āa longer shaft,employ it without anchoring and āwith a twoāhanded ātechnique.Suggested progression:
- practice on a⤠level mat indoors until you make 8/10 putts from 3 ft consistently;
- Moveā toā 6-10 ft on the practice green āand reach⣠~50% makes within two sessions;
- Then test on downhill and sidehill lies before using in competition.
Taking small steps reduces midāround surprises and preserves pace of play.
Concrete drills speed adaptation and provide objective ābenchmarks. Try:
- Gate Drill: two tees outside the putterhead toā enforce a square face at impact; goal – 9/10 passes āfrom 3 ft;
- Ladder⣠Drill: balls at 3,ā 6, 9, 12, 15 ft; record make ratesā and aim for weekly improvements of +10% ā at each distance;
- Tempo Metronome: use 60-70 bpm to target a 1:1 backswing:followāthrough rhythm; seek consistent launch with 1-3 inch variance;
- Speed Control Rollouts: from 20-30 ft, measure stopping position⣠(within 1.5 ft = acceptable); target ā70% inside this radius.
Log results and use them āto decide whether⢠to introduce the unorthodox elements into competition.
Typical ā£mistakes are identifiable and correctable with immediate actions. Common faults include excessive grip⢠tension (aim for 3-4/10 on a⤠relaxed scale), wrist failure at impact, and āincorrect face alignment (toe/heel bias). Remedies: mirror checks for face angle, a towelāunderāarmpits or short armālock (nonāanchored) drill to promote a shoulderādriven stroke, and gripāpressure holds ā£of 30 seconds between reps to engrain the feel. For finer tuning, change loft and lie in 1-2° steps if launch is off, and consult a fitter ā¤to match head weight and shaft flex to your pendulum frequency. Small, measured tweaks often produce immediate improvements in roll and reads.
Integrate course strategy and mental routines so changes pay off under tournament stress. āSwitch only when expected value favors the change – for example, if you currently average +0.5 āstrokes per hole inside 30 feet, āa new method that projects to ā¢lower that to +0.2 is worth testing. Before doing so in a round, warm up forā 5-10 minutes and perform one or two competitive preāround tests (e.g., three consecutive putts from 10 ft). adjust for conditions: on cold, slow greens focus on accelerating through the ball; onā brisk greens shorten backstroke⤠and emphasize face control. Mentally commit with breathing cues, a ā¢shortā preāshot routine⢠and one performance metric (such as speed control) to avoid overthinking. Combined technical drills, gear checks and situational strategy let golfers safely and measurably transition to an unorthodox putting method and turn practice experiments into scoring gains.
Data shows ā¤Drop in⤠Multiple Putt Frequency After Consistent Short Game Work With New Technique
Coaches running structured programs report consistent reductions in āmultipleāputt rates after players adopt a focused shortāgame regimen coupled with a newā putting approach. Across several coaching cohorts, ā£disciplined practice produced average declines of 20-40% in multiple putts within 6-8 weeks, with āthe largest improvements coming from better lag putting and steadier upāandādown conversions from 10-30 yards.In short, repeatableā technique changes plus smarter course decisions – not equipment alone -⤠are driving the numbers,ā and golfers of varying ability can reproduce the gains with objectiveā trackingā and consistent repetition.
Technically, the approach centers on repeatable setup and impact geometry to sharpen distance control and cut returns to the bag. Begin with a neutral putter faceā square to the intended line at impact, aim for a shaft lean ā£of aboutā 3-5° forward at address āso hands sit slightly ahead of the ball, and target effective loft near 0-2° at impact (stock loft is frequently enough 3-4°). Implementation cues: stand with feet slightly narrower than shoulder width, position the ball heelātoātoe centered to ~0.5 inch forward of center depending on arc, and keep eye position directly āover or just inside the line to⤠limit lateral head motion.Following the Rules ā£of Golf, use a firm yet ānonāanchored grip and a shoulderāled pendulum to limit wrist collapse; strive ā£for face rotation within ±2° at impact for a consistent roll.
Reducing multiple putts begins before you reach the green: ā¤better wedge control and smarter chip play reduce long lag requirements. Progress with drills that hone contact and landingāzone control, for example:
- 3ā5ā8 Drill – from 3, 5 and 8 yards hit 10 shots to a 3āfoot target and log proximity and makeā rates;
- Clock Drill ā¤- test from 3, 6 and 9 feet around the hole to refine reads and pace under pressure;
- Bumpāandārun practice – use a ā£lowerālofted club to keep the ball on the⤠green and ā¢inside 6-8 āfeet on tight approaches.
Perform these with session targets (e.g., 70% inside 6 feet from 30 attempts) and on a variety of green speeds – practice⣠on Stimpmeterā readings of ā 8-12 where possible to⢠mimic typical course conditions.
On course, blend the mechanical work with⣠strategic choices: when a pin is⣠wellāguarded or theā green has two tiers, prefer leaving an uphill or centerāofāgreen twoāputt rather than risking a lowāpercentage birdie that creates a long, breaking lag. rules of thumb: aim to leaveā yourself a 6-10ā foot uphill āputt rather than a risky 20āplus foot tester; play conservative lines into heavy wind and consider using a club with one or two degrees more loft on firm days; on soft greens use spin to hold the ball ācloser rather ā¤of bumpāandāruns that might leave longer putts. Those tactical choices combined with improved technique lead to measurable drops in multiple putts by converting tough twoāputt scenarios into manageable finishes.
Measure enhancement and address ā¤recurring problems with simple ā£metrics and corrective exercises. Keep a log of putts per round, multipleāputt percentage, and upāandādown conversion, and set staged goals such as a 30% reduction in multiple putts within ā8 weeks or āa oneāputt rate inside 10 ā¤feet of⤠95%. Typical faults and fixes:
- Excess āwrist action – switch to a controlled shoulder stroke⣠and narrow your stance to stabilize the lower body;
- Inconsistent contact – use impact ā£tape or a tee drill to train centerāface strikes;
- Poor distance control – practice metronomeāpaced strokes and the 3ā5ā8 ladder to develop dependable tempo.
Adapt coaching to learning preferences: visual players use video playback, kinesthetic players use weighted putters or aids, and analytical golfers collect shot data. ā¢combine these technical, tactical and mental āelements into a weekly plan (for example, three short 20-30 minute sessions on lag control, one 45-60 minute green session for drills, and one onācourse application hour) to produce measurable scoring improvement and maintain the reduction in multipleāputt frequency.
Q&A
Headline: This unorthodox putting technique could be the fix your putting needs -⣠Q&A
Whatā is the technique?
– It’s a putting system that stresses a rhythmic, pendulumāstyle motion with the putter head traveling about a single central axis ā¢so the head follows a smooth, repeatable arc. Advocates claim this yields steadier speed control and improved distance consistency on the greens.
Why is it described ā£as “unorthodox”?
– The term reflects how the method departs from⤠common coaching cues and customary setups.ā Rather than emphasising face āmanipulation or wrist action, it āfocuses on preserving an even arc and a stable central axis – a concept some instructors view as unconventional relativeā to classic instruction.
Who popularized it?
– The idea has spread through online lesson platforms and videos; one prominent presentation and writeāup on golflessonschannel.com helped accelerate awareness among early adopters⤠and instructors.
What evidence supports its effectiveness?
-⣠Current support ā£is largely anecdotal:⤠player reports, coach demonstrations and practice outcomes. ā£Early adopters note quicker gains ā¢in distance control, but there are no extensive peerāreviewed studies proving it⣠outperforms established methods. Coaches ā£advise onāgreen validation and objective measures (ballāspeed devices or consistent drill metrics) before making a competitive switch.
How do you try it on the practice green?
– Recommended steps:
1. Set the⢠putter head to a single central axisā you’ll keep⤠through the stroke.
2. Use a relaxed pendulum backswing and followāthrough with a āstable upper body.
ā 3. Prioritise backswing length matched to desired distance rather than wrist flicks.4.Begin with short ladderā drills (e.g., 6, 12, 20ā feet) to track consistency before extending range.
5. Record sessions or have a coach ā¤confirmā the path is a smooth arc and you’re not adding compensations.
Are there risks or ā¢downsides?
– Yes. Any meaningful stroke change can cause shortāterm volatility, especially on short, pressure⤠putts. Players attached to prior feel may lose confidence āuntil the⤠new motion becomes reliable.Avoid wholesale changes immediately before competition and trial the method in⢠practice rounds first.Who benefits most?
– Golfers struggling with distance control – those who routinely leave putts ā¢short or long – and players open to experimental practice. goodā candidates are those stuck on aā plateau who need a mechanical cue to stabilise tempo and arc.
What do coaches say?
– Reaction isā mixed. Some coaches āembrace new cues that improve repeatability; ā¤others warn against global prescriptions and stress customizing mechanics. Many recommend supervised trials and objectiveā measurement.
Where can golfers learn more?
– Watch credible instruction videos and demonstrations, test ā¢the method on practice greens and consult a certified putting coach for tailored feedback. The technique has been discussed online and featured on lesson channels like golflessonschannel.com.
Bottom line
– This unorthodox putting technique presents an intriguing alternative that many players reportā helps āwith distance control. itā merits onāgreen testingā and coach oversight; it appears promising for certain golfers but is not yet proven as a oneāsizeāfitsāall fix.
Note: other uses of the word “Unorthodox”
– Definition: “Unorthodox” generally means departing from the usual or expected. (See Cambridge ā¢Dictionary.)
– Memoir: ā¤Unorthodox is the title of Deborah Feldman’s 2012 memoir ā¢about leaving a Hasidic community.
– TV: Unorthodox was ā¢adapted into a 2020 miniseries based on the memoir.
Sources forā the term: Cambridge Dictionary and public summaries of the memoir and miniseries.
Whether the method becomes a shortālivedā curiosity or sparks a broader change in strokeā thinking, instructors and players will beā monitoring tournament ā¤results and āmore systematic data. For now,ā it offersā a⤠practical alternative⤠for struggling putters – but experts recommend cautious testing and professional guidance⣠before fully committing to ā£the switch.

Revolutionize Yourā Short Game: The Unconventional Putting⤠Technique Transforming Golfers’ ā¢Scores
What is the “Unconventional”ā Putting Technique?
The⤠unconventional putting technique isn’t āa singleā new ā¢grip or a trendy gimmick -ā it’s a hybrid, evidence-based approach that reduces unwanted degrees⤠ofā freedom in the stroke and prioritizes repeatability, micro-roll, and proprioceptive feedback. By combining a stabilized-shoulder pendulum, a controlled forward press, and precision distance drills, this method helps golfers ā¢improve alignment, green reading, and distance control āfor fewer three-putts and more made putts.
Why call it “unconventional”?
“Unconventional” āsimply means it deviates from the common putt-by-wrist/snap⣠approach.Instead of relying primarily on wrist action, this technique emphasizes:
- shoulder-driven pendulum motion,
- minimal wrist hinge,
- micro-forward press at setup, ā¢and
- early launch/topspin ā£to ā¤shorten the skid andā create faster, truer āroll.
Biomechanicsā & Motor Control: The Science Behind Better Putting
Prosperous putting is about controlling the putter face angle at impact and delivering consistent speed. Biomechanics and motor-control science suggest:
- Reduce degrees of freedom: fewer moving joints (minimal wrist action) = better repeatability.
- Pendulum mechanics: shoulder rotation creates a ā¤stable arc, reducing lateral deviation.
- Tempo and rhythm: āconsistent backswing-to-forward-swingā ratios produce⤠reliable⣠distance control.
- micro-roll and launch: a slight forward press⤠and lower loft at impact reduce⢠initial skid time, cutting down on roll-out variance.
Key Components of ā¤theā Unconventional Technique
1. Setup & Alignment
- Feet: narrow stance (~shoulder-width orā slightly narrower) āto allow the torso to rock āevenly.
- ball position: slightly forward of center for most strokes to promote forward-lean impact.
- Eyes: directly over or just inside the ball to aid aim and line perception.
- Grip: neutral or cross-handed⤠(left-hand ālow for right-handed players) optional – focus on comfort āand reduced wrist motion.
- Forward press: a small forward press⢠(think 1-2 cm) at address reduces loft and starts the putt with ā¤topspin.
2. Stroke Mechanics
- Shoulder-driven pendulum: shoulders rock; elbows āremain soft; wrists quiet.
- Short, repeatable ā¢length: match backswing length āto target distance; use tempo to scale speed.
- Face ācontrol: work to haveā the putter face square through impactā – a mirror orā headcover drill helps.
- Follow-through: keep the arc consistent; ā¢the finish should mirror the start.
Practical Putting Drills That āBuild the⤠Unconventional Stroke
Each drillā targets a specific component: alignment,⤠face control, tempo, distance, and roll.Do ā£each drill with focus and track your results.
Gateā Drill forā Face-Strike Consistency
- Place two tees āslightly wider thanā the putter head on the hitting line.
- Make 20 putts without hitting theā tees. If you hit a tee, reset and analyze face angle.
Shoulder Rock Mirror Drill
- Standā inā front āof a mirror ā£or āphone camera.
- Practice a slow pendulum using only shoulder motion; wristsā must remain still.
Micro-Press Topspin Drill
- Set up with a slight forward press. āPutt 10 balls from 6-10 ft, aiming⢠for minimal skid.
- Watch the ball: less initial hop and earlier roll indicates correct loft⤠control.
Ladder Drill for Distance⣠Control
- Place markers at 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 ft.
- Hit five ā¤putts to āeach marker, recording how ā£many are inside a ā¢3-ft circleā around the hole.
8-Weekā Putting Practiceā Plan (Compact⢠& ā£Trackable)
| Week | Focus | Primary Drill | Daily Minutes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Setup & Alignment | Gate Drill + Mirror | 20 |
| 2 | Shoulder Pendulum | Shoulder Rock⢠(100 reps) | 20 |
| 3 | Forwardā Press & Launch | Micro-Press Topspin | 25 |
| 4 | distance Ladder | Ladder Drill | 25 |
| 5 | Pressure Short Putts | Clock drill (3,⤠6,⤠9 ft) | 30 |
| 6 | Lag Putting | 20+ ft Lag Sessions | 30 |
| 7 | Integration | Mixed⤠Drill Sets | 30 |
| 8 | Course⣠Simulation | On-green Rounds | 40 |
Measuring Progress: Metrics That Matter
Track these to see real enhancement in your short āgame ā£and golf putting performance:
- Putts per round and putts per GIR (greens in regulation)
- Three-putt frequency
- Distance control: percentageā of putts inside a 3-foot circle at ā6-20 ft
- Stroke repeatability: video analysis of⢠face angle and path
Case Studies & First-Hand Examples
Weekend Hacker to ā¢Consistent 30s
ā¢A mid-handicap player replaced⤠a weak āwrist-driven stroke with the shoulder pendulum + micro-press approach. After āfour ā¤weeks⢠of focused practice, putts per⢠round dropped from⣠35 to 30, largely from cutting three-putts in⣠half and converting more ā£5-10 ft opportunities.
Club Coach Implementation
A āteaching pro introduced the technique to a⣠junior squad using the Ladder Drill and gate drill. Within two months juniors showed improved green-reading confidence and better⢠speed control in ācompetition, āwith a 12% increase in putts made from 8-12 ft.
Common Mistakes &ā How to Fix⣠Them
- Too large a āforward press – keep ā¢it micro (1-2 cm) to avoid⢠hooking the ball.
- Wrist reactivation⤠on the downswing – use mirror or tape across theā wrists to āfeel stillness.
- Overlong backswing for short putts – match length to distance,not effort.
- Ignoring green speed – re-test ladder targets on different speeds and adjust tempo.
Equipment & Putterā Setup Tips
- Putter loft: ā£modernā putters typically 3-4°, but reduce effective loft through forward press for quicker roll.
- Head shape: choose whatever you align to ābest; mallets āhelp with face ā£balance for the shoulder pendulum.
- Grip ā£size:ā larger grips can reduce wrist action and promote⢠shoulder stroke.
- Use a premiumā ball for consistent roll and feel when practicing distance control.
On-Course Request &ā Short Game Strategy
Integrate the unconventional technique into⣠course play by practicing short pre-round routines (5-10 minutes) that⣠include:
- Two mirror strokes to sync shoulders and tempo,
- Three micro-press putts at 6-8 ft to lock in forward press,
- One lag putt to⤠check touch for the day’s greens speed.
āā On the course, use conservative lag putts for 20+ ft and aggressive approach to three-ten footers with confident setup and strike. Reduce gambling on ā¢long ā¤attempts; prioritize avoiding three-putts.
FAQs – Quick Answers for⢠fast Improvement
Does this technique workā forā all skill levels?
Yes. āBeginners get consistency faster by reducing⤠wrist actions;ā scratch players benefit from improved distance control and reduced variability on fast āgreens.
How long āuntil⤠I see results?
Many players see measurable improvements (fewer three-putts, better short-range make ā¢percentage)ā within 3-6 weeks of focused practice. Consistent daily practice accelerates gains.
Will changing my putting style⣠hurt my short-term performance?
Possibly ā¤in theā short term.Expect an āadjustment period – use practice ā¢rounds to transition and keep a⣠few putters you’re comfortable⣠with duringā competition until the⣠new stroke is reliable.
Practical Tips to Accelerate Mastery
- Practice deliberately: set one measurable goal per session (e.g., 80% ā¢inside 3 ft from 6 ft).
- Record andā review: video⤠your stroke from face-on and overhead to check shoulder action and face path.
- Simulate pressure: have consequencesā for missed putts⤠in practice to replicate on-course stress.
- Keep ā¢a putting journal: recordā greenā speeds,putts made,and drill outcomes for trend analysis.
SEO-Focused ā£keywords to Remember
For players and content creators: weave theseā target phrases naturally when writing about this method ā- short game,⤠putting technique, putting drills,⢠green reading, distance control, lag putting,ā putting stroke, āalignment, tempo,⣠sinking putts, putting practice plan, and golf putting.

