Bunkers · Drill
Listen for the Thump in the Bunker
Part of our bunkers programs. Build a program with it
A good bunker shot has a sound. A low, deep thump. It comes from the bottom of the club hitting the sand with speed. Try it without a ball first. Swing and strike the sand with the sole of the club. Don't dig. Keep the club moving through. The sand lifts, and in a real shot, the ball goes with it. Once you can make the thump every time, add a ball and keep listening.
The drill
- Make swings in the sand without a ball.
- Hit with the bottom of the club.
- Listen for a deep thump.
- Keep the club moving; don't dig.
- Add a ball and keep the sound.
Why it works
In a greenside bunker you hit the sand, not the ball. The sole of the club slides under the ball, and the sand carries it out. A deep thump means the sole hit the sand with speed and kept moving. A sharp scrape or a dull stop means the club bit in or slowed down.
Common mistakes
- You swing slowly because you are afraid of the sand.Swing with the same pace you would use for a full shot and let the sand slow the club, not your hands.
- The leading edge digs in and the club stops in the sand.Feel the flat bottom of the club hit first, and keep the club moving through to a full finish.
- You focus on the ball and forget the sound.Draw a line in the sand where the ball would be, aim to thump just behind it, and listen on every swing.
How you'll know it's working
- You hear the same low, deep thump on most swings.
- The sand throws out in a clean, shallow scoop and the club finishes high.
- With a ball, it pops out on a soft, rising flight and lands on the green.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: Use a wide stance in soft, fluffy sand and take a smaller swing until the thump is steady.
Harder: Add a ball and vary the swing length while you keep the same thump, or play from a slightly downhill or firmer lie.
Common questions
Why does my bunker shot sound sharp instead of deep?
A sharp sound usually means the leading edge dug in or you hit too close to the ball. Aim to hit the sand behind the ball with the flat sole.
Should I hit the ball or the sand in a bunker?
You hit the sand, just behind the ball. The sand lifts and carries the ball out with it.
