The Concept
The Circle Pyramid Drill builds accuracy step by step — starting close and working back gradually.
It reinforces consistent form under pressure while creating measurable progress.
Setup
Proper setup ensures you can focus on putting mechanics without distractions.
Equipment Needed
- Markers: 5–6 markers (mini discs, cones, or sticks)
- Distances: Place them at 10 ft, 15 ft, 20 ft, 25 ft, and 30 ft from the basket
- Discs: Use 5–10 putters (same mold for consistency)
- Tracking: Keep a notebook or app to track results
- Optional: Timer for pressure practice
The Rules
Follow these rules to maximize the drill's effectiveness.
Drill Sequence
- Start at the closest marker (10 ft) — begin where you're most confident
- Make 5 in a row to advance to the next marker — consistency matters
- If you miss, move one step closer — reset and try again
- Continue until you complete the full pyramid (all distances) — work through each distance
- Optional: set a time limit for added pressure — simulate tournament pressure
Focus Points
These focus points help you improve faster and build consistency.
Aim Point
Focus on aim point, not chains in general (e.g. right center link). Pick a specific target and aim for it.
Routine
Use the same pre-putt routine every time. Consistency in routine leads to consistency in results.
Follow-Through
Follow through toward the basket — don't "baby" longer putts. Complete the motion every time.
Watch Your Misses
Watch your misses: are they low, left, or right? Each tells a story about what needs adjustment.
Scoring System (Optional)
Track your progress with a scoring system to measure improvement over time.
Points System
Assign points per make:
| Distance | Points |
|---|---|
| 10 ft | 1 point |
| 15 ft | 2 points |
| 20 ft | 3 points |
| 25 ft | 4 points |
| 30 ft | 5 points |
Set personal bests each session — track improvement weekly to see progress.
Variations
Try these variations to build different aspects of your putting game.
Wind Pyramid
Repeat in headwind or crosswind days. Wind conditions add realism and challenge your mechanics.
Pressure Pyramid
3 makes in a row = stay; 2 misses = restart pyramid. This adds pressure and builds mental toughness.
Double Pyramid
Go up (10 → 30 ft), then back down (30 → 10 ft) in one session. This builds range and consistency.
Performance Mindset
The right mindset makes practice more effective and builds confidence.
Mental Keys
Confidence builds with repetition, not luck.
- Every make is data — learn from every successful putt
- Every miss is feedback — use misses to identify what needs work
- Treat practice like play — visualize every putt as a tournament stroke
- Stay positive — focus on improvement, not perfection
- Track progress — measure improvement over time, not just one session
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing through distances: Take your time. Focus on consistency over speed.
- Changing routine between putts: Keep the same routine every time for consistency.
- Baby-ing longer putts: Follow through on all putts, regardless of distance.
- Not watching misses: Learn from misses. They tell you what needs adjustment.
- Giving up too early: Stick with the drill. Improvement takes time and repetition.
- Not tracking progress: Track your results to measure improvement over time.