Bunkerplay basics

In order to be a successful bunker player, firstly you will need to adopt the correct set-up fundamentals, as you would to successfully execute any other golf shot.

The lie of the ball, the steepness of the bunker face and the position of the pin on the green with dictate the shot you are going to play – high and spinning or low and running.

Throughout the swing it is imperative that you maintain posture and weight distribution which is pre-set at address to help generate a consistent entry point into the sand.

Finally, regardless of the method you use to play the bunker shot it is vital that you fully commit to the shot – too many golfers decelerate the club during the downswing causing the ball to be left in the sand!

• STANCE

Adopt a nice wide stance and settle the feet into the sand for stability. Lean slightly in favour of your lead leg to help prevent unnecessary weight transference through the swing and a slightly steeper angle of attack.

• SWING

Allow the swing to follow the line of your body. The stance you adopt at address will dictate how much across the ball to target line your swing is. In theory the more across the ball you swing, the more your clubface has to be open and the faster/harder you will have to swing the club.

• CLUBFACE

During impact and post impact keep the clubface looking at the sky. In doing so you will maintain the loft on the club which will help provide the necessary elevation.

Find out more

Gavin Abson is the Head PGA Professional at The Carrick. For lessons, call Gavin on 07967 206266. Follow him on Twitter: @GavinAbson

Originally published on bunkered on November 1, 2013.

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