Instructional Video
Equipment Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start with lead-hand-only: For a right-hander, putt using just the left hand on the putter (place your right hand behind your back or at your side).
Set up a straight 5-8 foot putt. Stroke the putt with only the left hand, focusing on maintaining a steady wrist (no flipping) and rocking the shoulders to move the putter.
Hit 5-10 putts this way. You will notice if you have any wobble or face rotation, as the left hand alone highlights it. The putter should swing like a pendulum from your left shoulder.
Now try trail-hand-only: Putt the same distance using just your right hand. This will feel different – it emphasizes touch and the release. Try to keep it smooth and let the right hand comfortably swing the putter.
Finally, return to your normal two-handed grip and putt the same distance. The stroke should feel more stable (from the left-hand practice) and also smoother (from the right-hand feel practice). Do this regularly to reinforce a balanced use of both hands in the stroke.
Professional Endorsement
Jordan Spieth has been known to practice short putts left-hand-only to ensure his lead hand (which is his top hand in his cross-handed grip) is controlling the stroke. Phil Mickelson similarly uses lead-hand putting drills to keep his stroke on track. These drills are common on tour to check that neither hand is getting too dominant.