Where to Put the Ball in a Greenside Bunker

A lot of bunker shots go wrong before the club even moves, just from how the ball is set up. Think about a basketball player at the free throw line. They don’t just walk up and shoot. They set their feet in the same spot every time because they know the shot depends on where they start. Bunker shots are no different. Take a stance that’s a little wider than a chip, roughly shoulder width, and play the ball just an inch or two ahead of center. That puts the ball right in the middle of where the club will splash, so you’re taking sand under it instead of hitting it first. From there, lean a little more on your front leg, swing L to L, and finish facing your target. It doesn’t take much speed or muscle. With the right club and a good setup, that small motion will carry the ball 8 to 10 yards, which is enough to get out of most bunkers you’ll run into. Give it a try on your next practice session and see how easy it can feel. Comment SAND below and we’ll send you the full video.