Sink More Putts with an Open Stance

Bryson Bujak
February 7, 2023
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The game of golf is a sport that requires precision, accuracy, and patience. One of the most crucial parts of the game is putting, which requires a golfer to hit the ball into the hole with the fewest strokes possible.

Putting with an open stance is a technique used by golfers to improve their putting game. In this post, we will explore the concept of putting open stance and its importance in the game of golf.

An open putting stance refers to a stance where the golfer stands with their feet apart, with the left foot positioned slightly forward of the right foot. This stance allows the golfer to have a clear view of the hole and the line to the hole, which is essential for accurate putting.

Stance is critical in putting because it affects the golfer’s balance, aim, and stroke. A golfer’s stance can also impact their comfort level, which can directly affect their confidence and performance on the green.

A proper stance can help the golfer maintain balance and control, allowing them to make a smooth and accurate stroke. By using the putting open stance, golfers can improve their accuracy, confidence, and overall performance on the green.

In conclusion, the open putting stance is a critical aspect of the game of golf that can help golfers improve their putting game. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer, understanding and implementing the putting open stance can help you lower your score and play better golf.

What is an open putting stance?

An open stance is a stance where the golfer stands with their feet apart, with the left foot positioned slightly forward of the right foot.

This stance is different from the traditional stance where the golfer stands with their feet shoulder-width apart and facing the target.

Pros and Cons

One of the main advantages of using an open stance is that it allows the golfer to have a clear view of the hole and the line to the hole. This can help improve their aim and accuracy, leading to better putting results.

Another advantage is that it allows the golfer to make a more natural stroke, which can result in a smoother, more consistent putt.

However, one of the disadvantages of the open stance is that it can make it more difficult to maintain balance, especially for golfers who have difficulty with their balance.

Additionally, some golfers may find the open stance to be less comfortable than the traditional stance, which can negatively impact their confidence and performance on the green.

Setup

To position yourself for an open stance, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and facing the target. Then, rotate your left foot about 45 degrees to the left, with the heel still touching the ground.

This will open up your stance, giving you a clear view of the hole and the line to the hole. It’s important to find a comfortable stance that works best for you, so you can make an accurate and confident putt.

Understanding the open stance and its advantages and disadvantages is essential for golfers who want to improve their putting game. By practicing and implementing the open stance, golfers can improve their aim, accuracy, and overall performance on the green.

Practicing Putting with an Open Stance

Basic Drills

To improve your putting with an open stance, it is essential to practice regularly. One of the best ways to do this is through basic drills.

Start by practicing your open stance on the putting green, using a straight putt of about 10-15 feet. Make several strokes with the open stance, focusing on maintaining your balance and making a smooth, consistent stroke.

Repeat this drill with longer putts, gradually increasing the distance until you are comfortable with the open stance from any distance.

Helpful Tips

It is important to keep your head still when putting with an open stance. Move only your arms and shoulders, keeping your eyes focused on the ball and the hole.

Another tip is to focus on making a smooth, pendulum-like stroke, allowing the putter to do the work for you.

Additionally, it can be helpful to practice with a partner who can give you feedback on your technique and help you identify areas for improvement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most common mistakes when putting with an open stance is poor balance. Make sure to keep your weight evenly distributed between both feet, with your weight slightly forward on your front foot.

Another common mistake is gripping the putter too tightly, which can negatively impact your stroke. Make sure to keep a relaxed grip, allowing your hands to move smoothly through the stroke.

Practicing putting with an open stance can help golfers improve their aim, accuracy, and overall performance on the green. By avoiding common mistakes and focusing on basic drills, golfers can develop their putting skills and play better golf.

When to use the open putting stance

The open stance can be used on different types of putts, including straight putts, breaking putts, and uphill or downhill putts. However, it is essential to understand when and how to use the open stance in different situations.

For straight putts, using an open stance can help improve accuracy and confidence. For breaking putts, an open stance can help you better see the break and adjust your aim accordingly.

On uphill or downhill putts, the open stance can help you maintain balance and control, allowing you to make a smooth stroke.

When deciding to use an open stance, there are several factors to consider, including the length and speed of the putt, the slope of the green, and the overall conditions of the green.

Longer putts may require a more traditional stance to maintain balance, while shorter putts may benefit from an open stance. The slope of the green can also impact your decision to use an open stance, as it may affect your balance and control.

Finally, the conditions of the green, including the speed and grain of the grass, can also impact your decision to use an open stance.

Understanding when and how to use the open stance in different situations is essential for golfers who want to improve their putting game.

By considering factors such as the length and speed of the putt, the slope of the green, and the overall conditions of the green, golfers can make informed decisions about when to use an open stance, allowing them to play better golf.

Conclusion

Putting with an open stance can be a valuable technique for golfers who want to improve their putting game.

By understanding the definition and benefits of an open stance, practicing regularly, and using it correctly in different situations, golfers can make more accurate and confident putts, leading to lower scores and better overall performance on the green.

It is important to remember that the open stance may not be suitable for all golfers, and it may take time and practice to develop the necessary skills and comfort level to use it effectively. As with any technique, it is essential to listen to your body and find what works best for you.

In conclusion, incorporating the open stance into your putting routine can be a great way to improve your putting skills and play better golf.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer, the open stance is a technique that is worth exploring and incorporating into your game.

Thanks for giving our guide on an open putting stance a read! If you have any further questions feel free to leave a comment below!

Happy golfing!

FAQs

Should you open your stance when putting?

The decision to use an open stance when putting is a personal one that depends on individual preferences and skill levels. For some golfers, using an open stance can improve accuracy and confidence, while for others, it may not be the best fit.

It is essential to consider factors such as the length and speed of the putt, the slope of the green, and the overall conditions of the green when deciding to use an open stance.

If you are interested in using an open stance, it is recommended to practice regularly and listen to your body to determine what works best for you.

Ultimately, the decision to use an open stance should be based on what helps you make the most accurate and confident putts.

Do pros putt with open stance?

Many professional golfers use an open stance when putting, as it can provide benefits such as improved accuracy and confidence.

However, not all pros use an open stance, and the decision to do so depends on individual preferences and skill levels.

Some pros may prefer a traditional stance for its stability, while others may use an open stance for its versatility and ability to accommodate different types of putts.

Ultimately, the decision to use an open stance is a personal one, and what works for one pro may not work for another.

The key is to find what works best for you and practice regularly to develop the necessary skills and comfort level to use the open stance effectively in a game.

Did Jack Nicklaus putt with an open stance?

Jack Nicklaus, one of the greatest golfers of all time, is known to have used a traditional putting stance throughout his career.

Nicklaus was known for his consistent and accurate putting, which he attributed to his straightforward technique and mental approach to the game.

While Nicklaus did not use an open stance, many golfers today, including pros, have found success with this technique.

The decision to use an open stance is a personal one and depends on individual preferences, skill levels, and the type of putt being made.

It is important to find what works best for you and practice regularly to develop the necessary skills and comfort level to use the open stance effectively in a game.

What is the advantage of an open stance?

An open stance in putting can offer several advantages, including improved accuracy, better visualization of the break, and improved balance and control.

The open stance allows golfers to have a clearer view of the target line, helping them aim more accurately. It also allows for a smoother stroke, reducing the risk of pulling or pushing the putt.

Additionally, an open stance can help golfers maintain their balance on uphill or downhill putts, leading to more consistent and confident putting.

While the open stance may not be suitable for all golfers, it can be a valuable technique for those who want to improve their putting game.

It is important to practice regularly and listen to your body to determine if the open stance is right for you.

Bryson Bujak

Hey there, I'm Bryson. I love golfing and helping others improve their game. I own Golfer's Destination, where I review golf equipment and provide guides and how-tos.