Few shots in golf create more frustration than bunker shots.
Many golfers walk into a greenside bunker already expecting the worst. They swing harder, try to “help” the ball out, and often leave it right where it started.
The problem isn’t the sand.
The problem is the approach.
One of the biggest mistakes golfers make in bunker shots is trying to hit the ball directly. In reality, the best bunker shots happen when you focus on the sand, not the ball.
Once you understand this concept, bunker shots become much easier and far less intimidating.
WHY?
Bunker shots work differently than regular golf shots.
When playing from the fairway or rough, the club strikes the ball first. But in a bunker, the club should enter the sand before the ball.
The sand lifts the ball out of the bunker and sends it toward the green.
Think of it like this: you’re not trying to scoop the ball out. You’re using the sand to carry the ball.
When golfers understand this concept, bunker shots immediately become more manageable.
REASON?
1. Trying to Hit the Ball Directly
The most common mistake is aiming to strike the ball cleanly.
When players try this, the club often digs too deep or strikes the ball thin, sending it flying across the green.
Instead of hitting the ball, focus on entering the sand slightly behind it.
2. Digging Instead of Splashing
A bunker shot should feel like a splash, not a dig.
When the club digs into the sand, the ball stays in the bunker.
But when the club glides through the sand, it creates a splash that lifts the ball softly onto the green.
This is why many golfers open the clubface slightly, it helps the club slide through the sand instead of digging.
3. Poor Entry Point Control
Where the club enters the sand matters.
If the club enters too far behind the ball, the shot will come out short.
If it enters too close to the ball, the club may hit the ball first.
A good reference point is about 1–2 inches behind the ball.
This allows the sand to carry the ball out smoothly.
4. Decelerating Through the Shot
Many golfers slow down their swing when hitting from a bunker.
This causes the club to stop in the sand instead of moving through it.
A committed swing with a full follow-through allows the club to splash through the sand and lift the ball properly.
Confidence and commitment are key.
Improving bunker play doesn’t require complicated mechanics. It starts with understanding the correct concept and building confidence.
Here are a few simple adjustments that can transform your bunker shots.
1. Open the Clubface Slightly
Opening the clubface adds loft and helps the club glide through the sand instead of digging.
This creates a smoother splash effect that lifts the ball onto the green.
2. Focus on the Sand, Not the Ball
Pick a spot just behind the ball and focus on entering the sand there.
This mindset shift alone can dramatically improve bunker performance.
3. Commit to the Follow-Through
A confident swing through the sand is essential.
Instead of stopping the club at impact, allow it to finish the swing fully.
The sand does the work of lifting the ball.
4. Practice the Splash Drill
One of the best drills for bunker confidence is the line drill.
Draw a line in the sand and practice swinging so the club enters exactly on that line.
Focus only on the entry point.
Once you can consistently strike the sand at the same spot, place a ball just ahead of the line and repeat the motion.
This drill helps develop consistent entry point control, which is the key to reliable bunker shots.
Bunker shots don’t have to be intimidating.
When you stop trying to hit the ball and start focusing on the sand splash, bunker play becomes much easier.
Remember the key ideas:
• Enter the sand before the ball
• Splash the sand, don’t dig
• Control your entry point
• Commit to your follow-through
With practice and the right mindset, bunkers can become just another manageable shot instead of a disaster waiting to happen.
Get more tips, connect with golfers, and be part of a community that plays with purpose.
Download the Golf Connection app on Google Play or the App Store and start playing with purpose today.
