Game version
Putting ladder: a pair putts from one distance, then moves back a step whenever the pair has made two in a row. Swap putters.
Lag to the Zone
Leave long putts close enough for an easy next one.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Mark a circle about 3 feet wide around a hole.
Core: 5 feet. Beat your own farthest step on the ladder.
- Ages
- 11 and up
- Time
- 12 min
- Players
- Just you
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Putter, balls, string or tees
- Level · skill
- Developing · Putting
The steps
How it works
- Mark a circle about 3 feet wide around a hole.
- Putt 10 balls from 25 feet.
- Count the ones that stop inside the circle.
- Change to a new distance and repeat.
Coaching point
Pace first, line second.
Safety: Stand back from anyone who is chipping or putting, keep everyone clear of your club, and wait your turn before you walk onto the green.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a start: Less (3 feet), Core (5 feet), More (8 feet). Beat your own farthest step on the ladder.
Story
You are an explorer climbing a ladder to the treasure cup.
My best
Beat your own count
Beat your own farthest step on the ladder. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
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