Blog Series: Golf Drills That Actually Work – #1: The Alignment Stick Gate Drill (Putting Mastery)
At Pivot Golf, we believe practice should be practical, repeatable, and effective. This series brings you simple golf drills that deliver real results — starting with one of the most underrated putting drills used by pros and amateurs alike.
🎯 Drill #1: The Alignment Stick Gate Drill
Goal: Improve your ability to start the ball on your intended line — the foundation of making more putts inside 10 feet.
🛠 What You Need:
Two alignment sticks (or golf clubs)
A flat putting surface
3–5 golf balls
✅ Setup:
Place the sticks parallel to each other, just wider than your putter head.
Set a golf ball in the center of the "gate."
Align the gate directly at your target (a hole or chalk line).
▶️ Execution:
Hit putts through the gate without touching the sticks.
If you graze a stick, your face angle or path is off.
Start with short putts (4–6 feet), then increase distance.
💡 Why It Works:
This drill gives you instant feedback on face angle and stroke path — two of the biggest contributors to missed putts. Repeating this drill engrains a square face at impact and develops confidence in your stroke.
🔄 Make It Progressive:
Narrow the gate for more challenge.
Add a ball return or string line for even more precision.
Do 5-in-a-row to simulate pressure.
🔥 Stay tuned for Drill #2 in our series: “Tee Gate Drill – Your Fix for Mishits and Slices”
