Greenside Bunker Shot
Any greenside bunker shot. This is the most essential short-game skill to practice.
Grip
Open the clubface before gripping (pointing slightly skyward). Firm grip — the sand creates resistance.
Stance
Wide-ish, open stance (feet, hips, shoulders aimed left of target). Dig feet into sand for stability.
Ball position
Forward of center (just inside left heel).
Posture
Flex knees. Weight evenly distributed. Aim eyes at a spot 2 inches BEHIND the ball — not the ball itself.
Swing thought
Swing along your body line (not at the target). Splash the sand — the ball rides out on the sand explosion.
Contact goal
Club enters sand 1.5–2 inches behind the ball. Sand explodes, ball rides out on the sand splash.
Common mistake
Decelerating — by far the #1 cause of failed bunker shots. Commit to a full, aggressive swing through the sand. Also: trying to hit the ball itself.
One-minute drill
Draw a line in the sand. Practice swinging through and entering the sand on that line — no ball. Feel the 'splash'. Then add the ball.
This is a beginner refresher, not professional instruction — see a PGA pro for swing changes.