How to get out of a greenside bunker
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Learn how to get out of a tricky greenside bunker in four easy steps
Many amateurs struggle from sand because they’re confused about technique. This leads to a lack of confidence, tentative swings and bad shots.
You can break that cycle now by adopting a more simple approach, explained here in four simple steps by Golf World instructor Chris Jenkins.
#1: LEAD FOOT FLARED AND BALL FORWARD
Adopt a wide stance with the ball well forward, opposite your left heel. Flare your lead toe outwards to get your knee out over your shoe; this improves stability and stops you falling onto the back foot in the downswing and try to lift the ball. The spine should be pretty much vertical rather than leaning away from the target.
#2: BODY SQUARE TO THE TARGET
You’re better off playing these shots with a square stance rather than opening everything up to your target because it’s much easier to be consistent – and consistency breeds confidence and accuracy. There’s no need to open the clubface significantly unless you need to get the ball up quickly.
#3: REDUCE YOUR WRIST HINGE
Tour pros play splash shots with long, lazy swings and plenty of wrist action but there’s no need to hinge the wrists aggressively. Reducing your wrist action keeps the swing more compact and helps you maintain the true loft on the clubface through impact.
#4: USE THE BOUNCE THROUGH THE SAND
A sand wedge’s bounce is there to make it easier to play bunker shots. Be confident the bounce will stop the club digging and release your hands down and through the sand with a scything motion that keeps the grooves facing the sky beyond impact.
