Brad Faxon: How the Putter Should Load

Recent questions

• How does Brad Faxon emphasize loading in putting strokes?

  By discussing the importance of lag and flex in the shaft, Brad Faxon highlights the need for proper loading throughout the putting stroke. He mentions that poor putters lack loading, resulting in slow, short strokes with minimal wrist movement and shaft flex. Faxon also correlates putting principles to the full swing, emphasizing the importance of winding up and transitioning to explode through the ball.

• What is the significance of grip strength in improving putting strokes?

  Brad Faxon suggests that practicing with one hand, focusing on grip strength and hand dominance, can help improve loading and feel in putting strokes. By softening arm pressure and maintaining a grip pressure of three or four, players can feel the weight of the putter head and achieve proper loading. Faxon advocates for lighter putters with toe hang for better feedback and easier transition, promoting a more traditional putting style.

• How have modern putters evolved compared to older models?

  Brad Faxon notes that modern putters are heavier with bigger grips, leading to less feel and difficulty in loading the putter. In contrast, he recalls his upbringing using light putters like the Bullseye, highlighting the need for lag and flex to generate distance. Faxon advocates for lighter putters with toe hang for better feedback and easier transition, promoting a more traditional putting style.

• What practice techniques does Brad Faxon recommend for improving putting strokes?

  Brad Faxon recommends practicing with one hand to focus on grip strength and hand dominance, which can help improve loading and feel in putting strokes. He also suggests softening arm pressure and maintaining a grip pressure of three or four to aid in feeling the weight of the putter head and achieving proper loading. Faxon demonstrates a longer practice stroke, emphasizing a forward press and allowing the putter head to move farther than the grip for proper loading and hitting the ball accurately.

• How does Brad Faxon compare putting strokes to the full swing?

  Brad Faxon correlates putting principles to the full swing by emphasizing the importance of winding up and transitioning to explode through the ball. He discusses the loading of the putter throughout the stroke, highlighting the need for lag and flex in the shaft. Faxon mentions that poor putters lack loading, resulting in slow, short strokes with minimal wrist movement and shaft flex.