The Golf Sand Shot: The Easiest Shot in Golf?

How many times have you read that in a magazine? Well...its sort of true. The reality is that a sand shot actually gives us the largest margin of error of any shot we will play in golf. However, for most players it is absolutely terrifying. So...technically...yes it is one of the easiest shots there is. But no..it's not because of our approach to playing a bunker shot. We first have to change our view about being in the sand.

The best way to do that is take the following lessons to build your confidence in the sand. It is amazing what this will do to your whole game. It will actually help your iron play because you won't be so worried about hitting into the sand because you know you will be able to get out of it.

The #1 Golf Sand Shot Rule: Don't Hit the Ball

This is where our trouble in the sand starts. A lot of players get into the sand and have the wrong mindset. They try to hit the ball to get out, but this leads to all kinds of trouble. The most important concept to understand about playing a golf sand shot is...DO NOT HIT THE BALL! I know it sounds strange...you spend so much time hitting the ball, and now I'm telling you not to. To hit a sand shot properly you want to...HIT THE SAND. Your club must contact the sand about two inches behind the ball so that your club slides under the ball. Truly speaking it is the sand that pushes your ball out of the trap so that it lands softly on the green.

The club is entering the sand behind the ball. The club is still on it's way down so that it will pass underneath the ball. The sand will splash the ball out onto the green.  Remember the Golf Sand Shot Rule...

It is very important in order develop your sand play.  You can truly become an escape artist from the sand. It is so much fun to hit a great recovery shot from the sand to save a shot on your scorecard.

For more tips and equipment to help progress your game visit the Pro Shop at Birley Wood or visit www.monster-sports.co.uk