Golf Teaching Aid - Long Bunker Shots

For the weekend golfer, a sand shot of any kind can be a frightening shot to face. But, a long fairway bunker shot can be difficult for golfers of any skill level. Here are some tips to help you with this part of your game.

Having your ball sitting in a sand trap 175 yards away from the green can be very intimidating. Keep in mind that you won't be able to take the same approach in hitting this shot as you would with blasting out of a greenside bunker.

With a bunker around the green you're hitting well behind the ball so you can get it up and on the green. With a fairway bunker you're concerned with getting the most amount of distance and the least amount of sand.

The first step in hitting this shot is to get a good, firm base. Plant your feet firmly in the sand with the ball being in the middle of your stance.

Keep a firm grip just as you normally would on a shot out of the fairway. Don't choke down on the shaft or try to do anything different with your grip.

Swing through the ball normally. You don't want to use any type of down force to get under the ball. Your goal is to take the least amount of sand as possible.

One key you'll want to keep in mind is to use an extra club length with this shot. So, if you hit a 5 iron from 175 yards out on the fairway, take a 4 iron for this bunker shot.

Never try to steer the ball with this shot. Accelerate through the shot and watch it go. With a little practice you can begin hitting this golf shot with confidence.