For most average golfers, the experience of being in a sand trap often brings anxiety and fear. But with a clear understanding of a few basic keys, we can turn that anxiety into confidence and make it a strong part of our game.

1. The number one key is to swing the club with an open clubface throughout the entire golf swing. The do this properly, we must first open the clubface to begin with before we take our grip.

2. Next we must aim our body about 10 to 15 yards to the left of the target.

3. Our weight should be evenly distributed and we must dig our feet in to get a sound foundation.

4. We must play the ball in the forward part of the stance.

5. Focus on a spot in the sand about 2 or 3 inches behind the ball.

6. Swing the club smoothly on the line of your toes and feel as though you are picking the club up at a sharper angle than a regular shot.

7. Remember, we always want to swing the club with an open clubface. So how do we do this? A great visual is to imagine a small mirror on the clubface. We always want that mirror looking towards our face throughout the entire swing. This will ensure the clubface is open throughout the swing and we can pop the ball out of the sand nice and softly.

8. And lastly, always remember to accelerate the club aggressively through the hitting area.

So walk through these basic keys and your sand shots should improve greatly and bring that score down. And one more thing, be sure to take the time at least once a month to get out and practice these shots. I find most people don’t make bunker shots a part of their practice routine. If you do, you will be rewarded greatly.

Remember,

If you control the clubface, you control the ball

Dave Wesley,

http://www.clubfacegolf.com