How does a longer putting stroke affect distance control?

A longer putting stroke can lead to issues with distance control primarily because it increases the complexity of the stroke, making it harder to maintain a consistent rhythm and timing. When the stroke lengthens, it can introduce variability in how the putter moves through the ball, resulting in varying impacts with different speeds. This inconsistency can lead to difficulties in achieving the desired distance for putts.

Moreover, a longer stroke may require more coordination and feel, which can be challenging for many golfers. As players attempt to gauge the power required over greater distances, any slight variation in stroke mechanics can lead to significant differences in how far the ball travels. Therefore, while a longer stroke might initially seem like it would enhance control due to increased motion, it often has the opposite effect, making it more challenging to achieve precise distance control on the greens.