Which strategy is effective for teaching putting?

In teaching putting, incorporating drills for distance control is a highly effective strategy. Distance control is crucial for successful putting as it directly impacts the player's ability to get the ball close to the hole. By using specific drills, instructors can help students better understand how various factors such as stroke length, tempo, and clubface angle influence the roll of the ball. These drills provide practical experience and reinforce the connection between the player's intent and the resulting distance, thereby improving their ability to judge speed on the green.

Incorporating practical drills also allows for immediate feedback, which is essential for learning. Students can see their progress through measurable outcomes and make necessary adjustments based on their performance in a controlled environment.

On the other hand, focusing solely on the power of the swing may not yield the desired improvement in a game where precision is often more important than power. Off-course discussions, while valuable in some contexts, do not provide hands-on practice that is critical for developing the fine motor skills needed for putting. Relying exclusively on verbal instructions can lead to misunderstandings and may not effectively translate into physical execution, as putting requires a physical feel that verbal guidance alone may not impart. Thus, the most effective approach for teaching putting centers around drills that enhance distance control.