GOLF LESSONS

CLUBFACE GOLF: THE BUNKER SHOT

Golf hazards come in many forms, shapes and sizes. Sand traps are just one of the obstacles golfers come in contact with during a round of golf. Many golfers get nervous or anxious when they land their golf ball in a bunker, but at Clubface Golf, we don't think that's necessary. When golfers have a clear understanding of a few basic golf techniques, they can turn the golf bunker shot into a highlight of their golf game.

Golf Bunker Shot Techniques:

1. If you control the clubface, you control the ball. This holds true whether your ball is on the fairway or in a sand trap. Be conscious of keeping your clubface open before you even establish your grip.
2. Aim your body about 10 to 15 yards to the left of your target.
3. Distribute your weight evenly within and dig your feet into the ground to ensure you have a strong foundation for your golf bunker shot.
4. Play your ball forward in your stance.
5. When addressing the ball, focus on a spot in the sand about 2 or 3 inches behind where your ball lays.
6. Swing the club smoothly along the line of your toes and feel like you are picking the club up at a sharper angle than your regular golf swing.
7. Remember, the key to a proper golf bunker shot is to keep your clubface open. An easy way to visualize a golf swing with an open clubface is to pretend that you have a small mirror on your clubface. Throughout your golf swing, be sure that the mirror is pointing at your face. An open clubface will allow you to pop your golf ball out of the sand so that it lands softly.
8. Our final golf tip for a successful bunker shot is to accelerate your club aggressively through the hitting area.

Practicing these basic golf tips should help make that next bunker shot a successful one. Though disappointing, landing in a sand trap doesn't have to mean a higher score. Set aside the time, at least once a month, to practice your bunker shots and make your next sand shot the most rewarding shot of your round.