Tips for Controlling Ball Speed from Bunkers

If you find yourself struggling with inconsistent ball speed when hitting from bunkers, the following tips can help you prevent the ball from coming out too hot or too soft:

• Proper Club Selection: Choosing the right club is crucial for controlling ball speed in bunkers. A sand wedge is commonly used, as it is designed specifically to help launch the ball out of sand traps. The lofted face and wide sole of the sand wedge allow you to slide under the ball and prevent it from coming out too hot.
• Adjusting Swing Tempo: Your swing tempo plays a significant role in determining the ball's speed. If you tend to hit the ball too hard, focus on maintaining a smoother and more controlled swing. On the other hand, if the ball consistently comes out too soft, try increasing your swing speed to generate more power.
• Slightly Open Clubface: Opening the clubface slightly at address can help increase the loft and prevent the club from digging too deep into the sand. This allows you to slide the club effortlessly through the bunker, giving you better control over the ball speed.
• Body Alignment: Proper body alignment is crucial when hitting from bunkers. Align your body left of the target (for right-handed golfers) to give yourself enough room to swing through the sand. This adjustment also helps prevent the ball from coming out too hot as you tend to hit it slightly left of target.
• Focus on the Center: When hitting from bunkers, aim to strike the sand approximately 1-2 inches behind the ball. This ensures that you get a clean contact with the sand, allowing the club to do its job. Striking the sand too far behind or ahead of the ball can result in inconsistent ball speed.
• Practice Your Technique: Like any other aspect of golf, practice is essential for improving your bunker shots. Spend time on the practice range or in a practice bunker, working on your technique and honing your skills. With practice, you'll gain more confidence and be able to control the ball speed effectively.
• Take Less Sand: In order to prevent the ball from coming out too soft, avoid taking excessive amounts of sand during your swing. Focus on a shallow entry into the sand and make sure to follow through with your swing. This allows the club to sweep through the sand rather than getting stuck, resulting in a more consistent and controlled ball speed.

Remember, controlling ball speed from bunkers is a skill that requires practice and patience. Implementing these tips and spending time refining your technique will help you achieve more consistent results. So, the next time you find yourself faced with a bunker shot, approach it with confidence and apply these strategies to ensure you have better control over the ball's speed.