Toes in for stability

It's key for a solid strike in a fairway bunker

David Leadbetter

Normal setup: (left) This stance can lead to mis-hit shots. Adjusted setup: (right) Turning your toes in creates a quiet base.

By David Leadbetter
Photo By Stephen Szurlej April 2007

One of the biggest difficulties golfers have in a fairway bunker is keeping the lower body stable. If it's a full-swing shot, it's very easy to lose your footing, leading to mis-hit shots. Contacting the sand too far behind the ball is frequently the result. I can't stress enough that you need to be anchored in the sand.

To do this, dig your feet into the sand, then turn your toes inward as you take your stance. This secures your lower body in the bunker. Your weight should feel as if it's on the inside edges of your feet, and when you swing, keep your weight in that same position. Unlike a normal full-swing shot, there's not a lot of weight transfer. This swing is propelled more by the arms and shoulders, and the toes-in position provides the stability needed for a solid shot.

One more important thing to remember for a solid fairway-bunker shot: You should grip down on the club slightly to compensate for the amount you dig your feet into the sand. This helps you strike the ball first.

Golf Digest

SUBSCRIBE TO GOLF DIGEST

and get Two Golf Tips Guides FREE -- Just for ordering!

12 issues for $14.97
*Plus applicable sales taxNon-USA - Click Here
 
January 06, 2009

lesson tees

Annika Sorenstam
Video Drills
Check out the latest video tips from Annika
Johnny Miller
Johnny Miller
Johnny Miller's 10 rules for great iron play
Jim Flick
Jim Flick
Try Snead's technique to keep your ball on line
David Leadbetter
Here's one move to fix your slice
Hank Haney
Hank Haney
Why clubfitting is essential for junior golfers

Swing Sequences

Swing Sequences
View full-motion swing sequences some of the world's best players including Harrington, Els, Mickelson, Garcia and more!

Analyze Your Game

Want help with your game? Shot By Shot offers a free trial of its game analysis.
MORE INFO

Tip of the Day

If you shoot about 100, your best bet is to pitch out and set up your next shot (above). To … More

Rule of the Day

To speed play while playing a match in a club tournament, you and your opponent agree to concede all putts … More

Instructor Rankings

50 Greatest Teachers

Who are America's best instructors, as ranked by their peers? The names at the top are familiar to any serious student.

NEWSLETTERS

Golf Digest's newsletter
Golf World's newsletter

Golf Digest Subscribe >

Golf World

Visit Subscribe
Conde Nast Store
Subscribe

Best Places to Play — Course Finder

Advertiser Events & Promotions

holidaygifts
What's your ideal holiday golf gift?