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How to Play Fairway Bunkers

Fairway bunker shots can be a very intimidatiing and frustrating golf shots for many golfers. Expect your score to go up three stokes or follow these steps for getting some confidence to hit the shot.

To begin with, to play out of a fairway bunker it is a good idea to take one to two clubs more than if you were in the fairway for shot of similar distances. Next, take your normal stance but dig your feet in a bit for added stability and position the ball in the middle of your stance. Position your self with an open stance and aim left of your intended target. Because you have dug your feet in a bit, you will need to grip down on the club, this will also give you more control of the club as you swing.

At the moment before you start your backswing lift your chin a bit. This will raise your balance point and allows for hitting the ball first. For this shot to have a successful outcome you must hit the ball first. Swing less than your normal swing speed, maybe around 70% to increase the odds of a clean solid shot.

On long fairway bunkers shots, try a 5 wood instead of a long iron and try not to overpower your swing. Swing smoothly and restict your back swing just a bit.

That's all there is for a fairway bunker shot with a good lie.

1. Open stance, dig in
2. Play the ball back in your stance
3. Choke down on the club, remember to raise your chin
4. Swing
5. Watch a successful shot!

Oh, you don't always get a good lie, you say. Now is the time you need to access the situation and play for your next shot. Take a club you are comfortable and confident hitting, maybe a 7 iron or less. Most golfers will hit the shot around 75 yards. Play for a large target area that will give you a good leave for your next shot. Shoot for the middle of the fairway!




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