A belly putter in golf is a type of putter with an elongated shaft that anchors against the golfer’s abdomen, allowing for added stability and improved stroke consistency during putting.
Introduction to Belly Putters
Belly putters in golf are designed for golfers looking to enhance their putting skills with a club that offers better anchoring and a more stable swing. These putters feature an elongated shaft, usually between 41-44 inches in length, that rests against the golfer’s abdomen, helping to reduce wrist movement and maintain a consistent stroke.
Advantages of Using a Belly Putter
There are several key benefits to utilizing a belly putter in golf, including:
- Stability: The belly putter’s anchor point against the abdomen provides additional support, resulting in more balanced and controlled strokes.
- Consistency: With reduced wrist movement, golfers can maintain a square clubface throughout their swing, leading to better accuracy on the greens.
- Confidence: Many golfers find that the distinct feel and contact of a belly putter instill increased self-assurance in their putting abilities.
Technique for Using a Belly Putter
Setup and Grip
To properly use a belly putter, the golfer needs to get into a proper stance by positioning feet shoulder-width apart and bending slightly at the hips and knees. The golfer then holds the belly putter’s grip section with both hands, similar to a traditional putter hold, but with the end of the grip anchored against the abdomen.
Putting Stroke
With the belly putter anchored, the golfer should keep their arms and shoulders in line to allow for a pendulum-like swinging motion. This stroke focuses on maintaining a consistent and controlled motion while keeping the wrist action to a minimum, allowing the golfer to direct the ball towards the target with greater accuracy.
Considerations Before Switching to a Belly Putter
While there are advantages in using a belly putter, several aspects need to be considered before making a switch:
- Custom fit: Ensuring that the belly putter’s length and specifications suit the golfer’s body dimensions and style is crucial for optimal performance.
- Legal restrictions: Belly putters used to be popular on professional tours, but in 2016, anchoring the putter against the body was banned by the USGA and R&A. Thus, it cannot be used in competitions adhering to the official rules of golf.
- Transition period: Switching from a conventional to a belly putter may require a period of adaptation as the golfer learns to master the new technique.
Choosing the Right Belly Putter for Your Game
Finding a belly putter that works well for you is key to unlocking its potential benefits. Golf Universe, a blog about golf, offers some valuable guidance on selecting the best belly putter to match your playing style and preferences. When choosing a belly putter, consider the following factors:
- Length: Ensure the putter shaft length allows you to adopt a comfortable setup position and keep the putter anchored against your abdomen.
- Weight: The optimal weight will help you maintain good tempo in your putting stroke without sacrificing feel and touch on the greens.
- Head style: Belly putters come in various head shapes and designs, such as mallet, blade, or cavity-back. Select a head style that feels comfortable and visually appealing to you.
The Golf Universe Take on Belly Putters
At Golf Universe, we believe that belly putters can be an excellent addition to a golfer’s equipment arsenal, especially for those struggling with consistency. Despite the ban on anchored putters in professional tours and official golf events, non-competitive and recreational golfers can still reap significant benefits from using a belly putter.
Our popular Golf Universe blog regularly reviews and features a range of golf equipment, including belly putters, helping our readers make informed choices. We encourage golfers to give belly putters a try, as they could potentially reduce unwanted wrist movements and enhance putting performance.
FAQ Section: Common Questions About Belly Putters
In this FAQ section, we provide concise answers to some of the most common questions related to belly putters and their use in golf. Explore the information to better understand this unique putting option and determine if it suits your gameplay needs.
Why do some golfers choose belly putters over traditional putters?
Golfers may opt for belly putters to gain the advantage of a more stable and controlled putting stroke. The anchored position against the abdomen restricts wrist movement, helping to improve accuracy and consistency on the greens.
Are belly putters legal in professional golf events?
No, belly putters are not legal in professional golf events. The USGA and R&A banned anchoring the putter against the body in 2016. Consequently, belly putters cannot be used in competitions adhering to the official rules of golf.
How do I know which belly putter length is right for me?
The ideal belly putter length varies among individual golfers and depends on factors like height and playing style. A proper length will allow for a comfortable setup and ensure the putter is anchored against your abdomen. Custom fitting is recommended to find the optimal length for your needs.
What types of head styles are available for belly putters?
Belly putters come in various head styles, including mallet, blade, and cavity-back designs. Each golfer may have individual preferences, so it’s essential to choose a head style that feels comfortable and visually appealing.
How long does it take to adjust to using a belly putter?
The transition period from a conventional to a belly putter may vary between golfers. However, with practice and patience, most players can adapt and start experiencing the benefits of improved accuracy and consistency on the greens.
