Hitting out of the sand, also known as a bunker shot, requires a specific technique to ensure a successful shot. Here are the basic steps to help you hit out of the sand effectively:
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Select the Right Club: Choose a sand wedge or a lob wedge for bunker shots. These clubs are designed with a higher loft, which helps to get the ball out of the sand and onto the green more easily.
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Open Your Stance and Clubface: Position your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart with your front foot flared open towards the target. Open the clubface by aiming it slightly to the right (for right-handed players) of the target.
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Dig Your Feet In: Sink your feet into the sand to stabilize your stance. This will provide a solid base for your swing and prevent your feet from slipping during the shot.
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Focus on the Sand Behind the Ball: Unlike shots from the fairway or rough, you want to hit the sand first when hitting from a bunker. Aim to strike the sand about 1-2 inches behind the ball. Visualize a spot in the sand where you want the club to make contact.
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Take a Steep Swing: To ensure the clubhead gets under the ball, take a steeper swing path compared to shots from the fairway. This means taking the club back on a steeper angle and returning it down into the sand aggressively.
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Accelerate Through Impact: Maintain a smooth and accelerating swing through impact. Avoid decelerating or trying to scoop the ball out of the sand. The clubhead should continue moving through the sand after making contact.
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Follow Through: Complete your swing by allowing the club to swing up and finish high, extending your arms and wrists fully. This will help loft the ball out of the bunker and onto the green.
Remember, practice is key to mastering bunker shots. Spend time at the practice bunker to refine your technique and gain confidence in hitting out of the sand. Additionally, understanding the specific conditions of the bunker, such as the texture and depth of the sand, can also influence your approach to the shot.