Follow along as I talk about direction, ball position, where to strike the ground, and the big key – body rotation!

If you want to improve your bunker shots, you need to practice. However, some bunker drills are better than others, and in this month’s video golf tip, Mel Sole will share with you an excellent and effective drill for becoming a better bunker player.

Direction

The ball will always travel in the direction of the clubhead path and not the clubface angle. So if the clubface is open because you are not striking the ball first, the clubhead path will dictate what direction the ball is coming out of the bunker.

Ball Position

In the bunker, draw three lines. First-line will be the direction. This line would point to the direction you want the ball to come out of the bunker. Not necessarily the flag of the green slopes. The second line will be a line drawn from the ball but 90 degrees to the first line. The third line is parallel to the second line but 2″ further back. Your ball position is where the first and second lines cross.

Where to strike the ground

You will strike the ground on the second line. That is 2″ behind the ball. If you cannot strike 2″ behind the ball consistently, you will have trouble controlling your distance.

Body Rotation

The big key in playing a successful bunker shot is body rotation! Most golfers slap at the ball with the arms and hit too far behind the ball. A fat shot will result. Set your weight on your front leg with the hips slightly open. This will promote clearing the hips much quicker.