Multiple feedback putting guide and method

Abstract

The present invention provides a putting guide for providing both physical and acoustical feedback of the proper putting stroke. The putting guide is comprised of a guide rail, a base, and securing receptacles. The guide rail is defined at an angle substantially perpendicular relative to the plane of the base to enable a golfer to practice a linear putting stroke. The securing receptacles extend through the base for receipt of a securing device. The putting guide is also provided with elastomeric end caps to hold the guide off an indoor putting surface which can dampen the aural feedback of the guide.

1 ] A putting guide for providing both physical and acoustical feedback of the proper putting stroke, the putting guide comprising: 
 a metallic guide rail defined at an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the plane of the base such that the guide rail is substantially vertical;    a base;    securing receptacles extending through the base for receipt of a securing device; and,    elastomeric end caps covering each end of the said metallic guide rail.    
     
     
         2 ] The putting guide of claim  1  wherein the guide rail further comprises an upper surface having calibration markings to provide visual feedback of the proper putting stroke.  
     
     
         3 ] A method of providing physical and acoustical feedback during practice of the proper putting stroke with a putter, the method comprising the steps of: 
 selecting metal bar stock with sufficient acoustical properties that an audible signal will be created through sliding contact with a putter; and    shaping the bar stock such that a guide rail is provided for contacting the putter throughout the putting stroke to physically guide the putter into the proper putting stroke.    
     
     
         4 ] The method of claim  3  wherein the bar stock is shaped such that the guide rail is substantially vertical.  
     
     
         5 ] The method of claim  3  further comprising the step of providing calibration markings on the secured guide rail to provide visual feedback on the backswing of the putting stroke.  
     
     
         6 ] A method of practicing a proper putting stroke using the putting guide of claim  1 , the method comprising the steps of: 
 placing the putting guide on a putting surface; aligning the putting guide with a target;    securing the putting guide to the putting surface by inserting the securing device through the securing receptacles; and    performing the putting stroke while maintaining the putter against the guide rail of the putting guide such that both physical and acoustical feedback is received.    
     
     
         7 ] A method of practicing a proper putting stroke using the putting guide of claim  1 , the method comprising the steps of: 
 placing the putting guide on a smooth indoor surface;    aligning the putting guide with a target; and    performing the putting stroke while maintaining the putter against the guide rail of the putting guide such that both physical and acoustical feedback is received.