There’s something truly mesmerizing about watching Ernie Els on the golf course. His nickname, “The Big Easy,” perfectly captures his graceful and effortless swing, but it’s his putting that sets him apart from the rest. Els is a four-time major champion and former world No. 1, and even today on the PGA Tour Champions, he continues to impress with his putting prowess. In this article, we’ll delve into one of Els’ signature drills that can help you improve your putting game and sink more putts.
The pendulum motion drill, also known as the gate drill, is a simple yet effective way to improve your putting stroke. It involves setting up two tees on either side of the hole, creating a “gate” for your putter to swing through. This drill not only helps with accuracy and consistency, but it also promotes a smooth and rhythmic putting stroke.
To begin, set up two tees approximately two feet apart on either side of the hole. Then, place a ball in between the tees and address it as you would for a regular putt. The goal of this drill is to swing your putter back and through the gate without hitting the tees. This will ensure that your putter is staying on the correct path and that your stroke is consistent.
As you start swinging your putter, focus on keeping your arms and hands relaxed, and let the putter do the work. Els is known for his smooth and effortless putting stroke, and this drill helps to replicate that motion. By swinging the putter like a pendulum, you’ll eliminate any unnecessary movement and tension in your stroke, allowing for a more consistent and accurate putt.
Another key aspect of the pendulum motion drill is to pay attention to your tempo. Els is known for his slow and deliberate tempo, which is key in maintaining control and accuracy on the greens. As you swing the putter back and through the gate, focus on maintaining a steady tempo and rhythm. This will help you to avoid rushing your stroke and ensure a smooth and consistent putt.
Repetition is crucial when it comes to improving any aspect of your golf game, and the pendulum motion drill is no exception. To see real improvement in your putting, it’s essential to practice this drill regularly. Start by setting up the gate on a flat surface, and once you feel comfortable, you can start incorporating slopes and breaks to make the drill more challenging.
Els’ putting skills have earned him numerous accolades and titles, and the pendulum motion drill is just one of the many techniques he uses to stay at the top of his game. But it’s not just about technique; Els also has a strong mental game and a positive attitude on the course. As you practice this drill, try to adopt Els’ approach and maintain a calm and focused mindset. Visualize sinking each putt, and trust in your abilities.
In conclusion, if you want to improve your putting and sink more putts like Ernie Els, the pendulum motion drill is a must-try. It’s a simple yet effective way to promote a smooth and consistent putting stroke while also working on your tempo and mental game. So next time you head out to the course, remember to set up the gate and channel your inner “Big Easy.” With practice and determination, you too can become a putting master like Ernie Els.
