Even the best golfers can end up at the bottom of a sand trap every once in awhile and it pays to know how to get out of one. This is probably one of the most frustrating hazards you can run into while you’re golfing, but there are some tips that you can use that will help you keep your score intact. While it’s always best to avoid sand traps, when you do end up in one, these tips will help get you out.
1. Get the right kind of sand wedge.
There is a lot of variation in clubs, especially with different manufacturers. Ideally, you’re going to want to purchase a sand wedge that has a degree of 55 to 58 in loft. 57 or 58 is the best, but if you’re really a good player, you can get away with a 55. Simply by purchasing the right kind of sand wedge, you can conquer just about any trap. The bounce rate is also important here, and can have a big impact on where you end up on the green. Look for one that has a bounce rate on the lower end of the spectrum for greater control.
2. Correct your position.
If you are standing wrong, you’ll be putting the wedge too far underneath the ball, and the only place you’re going to go is down. It is important to open up your stance, and make sure that the club face is not closed. Work on this at home or in a practice trap until you develop the right feel. You should be able to see most of the club face when you are looking down at it from above.
3. Work on your swing.
It can be tempting to get really choppy with your swing, but this can spell disaster. Even though it is a pitch shot, you’re going to want to stay as fluid as possible. Work on bringing your club back slowly, along a straight line. The power will come when you connect with the ball, not with your backswing.
4. Learn how to snap your wrist.
We mentioned above that the point of impact is where you want to focus your power on this swing. Practice snapping your left wrist so that your hand is bent to left. Put your hands together without a club in a praying position and then snap them to the side. Add the club and make the same movement. That’s what it will feel like at the point when you are ready to hit the ball.
5. Putting it all together.
When you practice your sand trap shot, try to put all of these tips together so that it is one fluid motion. Start by working on the backswing and then add the snap at just the right moment. It can take a few tries to perfect this, but once you do you should see a big change in the way you play in the sand.
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