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Testing… testing. This is test for all golfers who want to improve their putting. Next time you find that your having troubles putting try the following test.

Find a straight line, or use a string and make a couple practice strokes over the top of the line. Pay attention to how your putter swings along the line. Does your stroke start moving back outside the line, returning to the ball square and then outside again on the follow through (crescent moon shape)? Does your stroke move inside on the takeaway, back to square and then back inside (hinged door)? Or does your stroke move perfectly back and forth along the line, or none of the above?

The position of your hands in relation to your body causes these shapes and is one of the most common flaws in the putting stroke that is easily remedied. If your hands are too close to your body during the stroke your putter will move in a crescent moon shape. If your hands are too far away from your body your stroke will create a hinged door shape. The proper placement of your hands should fall under your shoulders to create a Pure-In-Line-Stroke (PILS). The PILS stroke works best when using your shoulders as a vertical rocker to create the power in your stroke.

Remember, allow your hands to fall directly underneath your shoulders in your putting stroke and use the big muscles in your shoulders to rock your way to better putting!

If you have any questions regarding this tip or any part of the wonderful game of golf, please write Brad Pluth at pluthb@aol.com or call 763.753.8383.

Happy Golfing!