A guide to better green reading
Target, slope measuring system, bringing an updated Plumb Bob system (with a twist) into the 21st Century.
Within this paper I would like to share some of my theories on green reading and introduce you to my newly developed slope measuring system (SMS). You will learn to see and assess the extent of the degree of slope on any given putt and, with a little practice on your part, you will soon start to improve your green reading skills and hole more putts.
I am always a little surprised at just how few golfers consider taking a green reading lesson. Did you know that amateur golfers miss as many as 70% of their putts on the low side of the hole? A normal percentage should be 50%, allowing for the process of natural adjustment. Missing more than 50% on a given side is a systematic error. Obviously missing putts on the low side is not the only reason that golfers miss putts; we can simply misjudge the line or even see a slope where there isn’t one. Another interesting fact is that 70% of putts missed from inside nine feet are missed due to a misread of the green. I have developed my SMS to address these issues.
For both pros and amateurs, three to seven feet is the distance range that separates good putters from the average. Learning to read greens better WILL make a massive difference to your score.
I believe it is important that a green reading routine suits your own putting process. My SMS has been designed so that it can be used on different levels: you can use it as a stand alone system, add it as an aspect of layering to a process you may already use or use it on the practice ground to better reinforce your own putting technique.
What is the SMS technique?
The aim of the system is to help you judge the size of slope and see a slope when it’s not easily visible. By identifying the degree of slope, you will learn to intuitively recognise the desired shape of the putt, which will assist you in picking the correct line and thus HOLE MORE PUTTS!
As a putting coach, I work very hard to keep putting as instinctive as possible; this new system has been developed with that same mantra. No system can be perfect, as you don’t always have a perfect slope with the exact same degree all the way down your line. Crucially, the speed of the putt can still make a massive difference to the amount of break. Therefore, you will still need to observe the putt and make your own judgment.
Please Note: This system might not be suitable if you have posture or balance issues.
Overview of the technique
Step 1 – SMS Target Explained
Step 2 – Check the Putter's Vertical Hang (Plumb Line)
Step 3 – Hang the Putter
Step 4 – Calibrate the Putter Hang
Step 5 – Body Setup & Perpendicular Read Position (PRP)
Step 6 – Practice and Putting Things Together
"For both pros and amateurs, three to seven feet is the distance range that separates good putters from the average. Learning to read greens better WILL make a massive difference to your score."
www.target-green-reading.com
Developed by Nick Riley PGA Advanced Professional