YOU SPEND TOO MUCH TIME IN THE SAND

According to Shot Scope figures, 22 percent of us leave the ball in the bunker after our first attempt. But this graph shows just how this figure changes with handicap; two-handicappers leave the ball in the bunker only 1 percent of the time, compared to 21 percent of the time for a 26 handicapper. Clearly, getting the ball out first time from sand has a significant role to play in getting your handicap down.

1 Hit the sand first!

If you don’t count the air shot, the bunker shot is the only one where you don’t hit the ball. The club impacts the sand, and the pressure forces the ball to rise. Focus your eyes an inch or two behind the ball, and commit to hitting that spot with the club’s sole.

2 Stand squarer

Forget everything you’ve been told about opening up your stance and clubface. Yes, the greenside bunker shot works best from a very slightly open position, but do not overdo it. Adopt a square position, open the face fractionally, then pull your lead foot back a touch to open your stance. This will allow you to make a much more orthodox swing, with some assistance to launch created by cutting across the ball very slightly.

3 Make a full follow-through

You will leave the ball in the sand when you are not committed to the stroke. So always complete your swing. Check these three elements are in place: Your spikes are showing to someone stood behind you. Your belt buckle is facing the target. Your hands have reached head height.