Green-Side Bunkers
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Playing from a green-side bunker can indeed feel stressful and challenging, however with the right technique and consistent practice, you can turn this tricky shot into one of your strengths. One of the most important skills to develop is your interaction with the sand. Understanding the texture and how it will impact the ball strike can help to create the perfect explosion of sand that will elevate the ball up and out of the bunker.
Understanding Sand Interaction
Before diving into any shot, it’s crucial to learn how the sand reacts when struck by the club. Not all bunkers have the same type of sand, and the density and moisture level can greatly affect your shot. Here’s why understanding sand interaction is so vital:
- Texture and Density: Wet or compacted sand will feel much different compared to dry, loose sand. Learn to adjust your technique based on the sand’s condition.
- Explosion Effect: The goal is to hit the sand a couple of inches behind the ball, allowing the sand to “explode” and lift the ball out. This creates a cushion that helps control the ball’s trajectory.
- Controlled Flight and Distance: The way you interact with the sand will also impact the height and distance the ball travels. Mastering this will give you more control and reduce the risk of overshooting the green.
Evaluating and Visualising your Shot
Before stepping into the bunker and making your swing, there are a few key considerations to manage the shot effectively:
- Analyse the Lie: How is the ball sitting? Is it buried or sitting on top of the sand? The lie will determine how you approach your swing.
- Assess the Sand Condition: Is the sand wet, compact, or fluffy? This will influence how much force you need to generate.
- Consider the Distance and Green Layout: How far is your target? Is there any slope or undulation on the green that could affect your roll?
- Visualise the Shot: Building a mental picture of the shot is essential. Visualize the ball’s path, from the moment of impact to landing on the green and rolling toward the target.
By going through these pre-shot routines, you’re mentally preparing yourself for a confident and committed swing. A clear and focused mindset can dramatically improve your bunker game, making your swings smoother and more effective. Take time to watch our Introduction Video (sighted below) that gives an overview of lesson tutorials available in this section. Alternatively if you prefer you can dive straight into a lesson and take your bunker game to the next level!
As part of Golfing Partner’s coaching offer here’s what you can expect:
- Free Video Tutorials: Begin with the basics that apply to all areas of your golf game.
- Premium Content: Access a wealth of over 100 video lesson tutorials, swing drills and fun games to play to personalise your learning.
- Lesson Packages: Target specific areas of your game for improvement or development with the support from a PGA Golf Coach.
To access Premium Content, simply click on a lesson and sign up. This grants you access, not only to your chosen lesson but also to all other Premium Content in your lesson package (details are available at the bottom of the page).
Our V1 Swing Analysis technology allows you to send video of your swing and receive tailored coaching support from an experienced PGA Golf Coach who is skilled in all areas of game development. Each video feedback will come with a series of swing drills and practice games designed to help you establish a structured practice routine for sustainable game improvement.
Best of all, Golfing Partner video tutorials are easily accessible on your mobile device, so you can view a lesson while practicing — whether it be practicing at the golf club, nipping into the Range for a quick basket, practicing at home or during your break at work.
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1 Month Lesson Pass = £9.99
- Designed to quickly fix a Swing Fault, this Lesson Pass opens a range of Premium Lesson Tutorials, Swing Drills, and Practice Games.
- Gain access to my unique ‘Fault Finder’ that gives a qualified explanation of common swing faults that typically cause problematic ball strikes and flights.
- Receive regular Golf Tips.
- To see more detail, head to the 1 Month Sign Up box sited at the base of this page.
3 Month Lesson Pass = £27.99
- Designed to create a structure of practice to fix your Swing Fault, this Lesson Pass opens a range of Premium Lesson Tutorials, Swing Drills and Practice Games.
- You can access 3 x V1 Swing Analysis Online Lessons.
- Gain access to my unique ‘Fault Finder’ that gives a qualified explanation of common swing faults that typically cause problematic ball strikes and flights.
- To see more detail, head to the 3 Month Sign Up box sited at the base of this page.
6 Month Lesson Pass = £54.99
- This lesson pass will give you full access to all Premium Lesson Tutorials, Swing Drills and Practice Games so a structured practice plan can be designed to fix or further improve any area of your game.
- You can access 6 x V1 Swing Analysis Online Lessons.
- Gain access to my unique ‘Fault Finder’ that gives a qualified explanation of common swing faults that typically cause problematic ball strikes and flights.
- To see more detail, head to the 6 Month Sign Up box sited at the base of this page.
12 Month Lesson Pass = £99.99
- If you’re serious about taking your game to the next level, then this is the Lesson Pass for you! With access to over 200 Swing Tutorials, Swing Drills and Practice Games, I’ll purposefully create a practice structure specifically designed for you and your golf game that if followed, will take your game to the next level!
- You can access 13 x V1 Swing Analysis Online Lessons.
- Gain access to my unique ‘Fault Finder’ that gives a qualified explanation of common swing faults that typically cause problematic ball strikes and flights.
- To see more detail, head to the 12 Month Sign Up box sited at the base of this page.
