For any golfers out there, read this article on putting at http://onpar.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/06/27/the-key-to-improved-putting-could-be-staring-right-at-the-hole/?emc=eta1
I’ve been using this method for years and I’m thrilled to see the data supporting it. I read that some of the comments disagree with the analogy of shooting a basketball or throwing a baseball, but I don’t. My mindset is that I know where the ball is and my hands are attached to the putter. The ball doesn’t move. With practice, I can make solid putting strokes and not worry about mishits. In the past using the look at the ball method, my thinking side of my brain has interfered with the executing side. However, I make one accomodation. Within 15 feet I look at the ball, outside of 15 I look at the hole. My reasoning is that what matters most inside of 15 feet is the path to the hole, outside of 15 feet its the distance to the hole. In a short period of time, I’ve learned that by looking at the hole and softening my gaze, my mind and my hands know how much pace to put on the ball.
