What Is the Proper Way to Use a Belly Putter?

Successfully putting a golf ball into a hole can be affected by many factors, including the condition of the green, slope towards the hole, and the golfer's experience level. One of the most difficult aspects of putting is maintaining a steady wrist throughout the motion of the putt, as any wobbling can lead to an inaccurate shot. Belly putters eliminate this variable, by positioning the longer shaft against the golfer's stomach, thus allowing for a smoother and more accurate putt. With increased use on the PGA Tour by golfers like Vijay Singh, belly putters are becoming more popular than ever, though their use differs slightly from traditional putters.

Things You'll Need

  • Belly putter
  • Golf balls
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Instructions

    • 1

      Stand in your normal putting stance, with the golf ball directly between your two feet. Hold the belly putter by placing the thumb of your non-dominant hand on top of the shaft and grabbing the shaft with your remaining fingers facing away from you. Pull the shaft towards your stomach, with the top of the shaft where your thumb rests pressing up just above your bellybutton.

    • 2

      Position the putter vertically from your stomach to the putting green, bending forward as necessary. Place your dominant hand on the shaft below your non-dominant hand, and hold it with your fingers, not in your palm. Position your dominant hand so your arm is nearly straight, about a foot below your non-dominant hand.

    • 3

      Adjust your head so it is nearly vertical with the golf ball, and set your eyes squarely on the ball. As if the belly putter was a pendulum, backswing with the dominant hand, and forward swing towards the ball, using the requisite amount of force depending on the distance to the hole. Your wrists should not move during the swing, as the belly putter is squarely and securely set into your stomach.