Hole #5 at Interlachen CC - site of the 2008 Boys Junior Championship where Jay Kennedy is the Director of Golf

When playing golf there are two things that can cause a bad putting round. They are a lack of distance control and poor direction. Here are few ways to improve on both.

Make sure you make a smooth rhythmical stroke. There should be no sudden change of direction from the backswing to the forward swing. Good rhythm will improve distance control and make you a good lag putter.

On a lag putt always keep the ball on the high side of the hole, so as it starts to slow down, it is moving toward the hole. If the ball ever gets on the low side of the hole, it is now moving farther away from the hole.

Once you have decided where you want to aim the putt, pick out an intermediate target as close to the ball as possible, and this will help you line up properly.

Watch the ball until it comes to a stop. Be aware of how the ball breaks as it slows down, and this will help you determine the break on your next putt.

Try these tips the next time you play and watch your putting improve.