Many amateur golfers find bunkers intimidating, which often leads to hesitation and self‑doubt. Past experiences of mishitting from the sand reinforce this anxiety and make players apprehensive.
Nevertheless, with the right technique bunker play can be far simpler. The foundation of solid bunker golf starts with a correct setup, as demonstrated by David Armitage in the first episode of the Top 100 Teacher Sessions.
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Key Bunker Setup Mistake to Avoid
Armitage highlights that one of the most common errors recreational golfers make begins with the stance. While shifting weight forward is essential, tilting the upper body backward disrupts the low point of the swing and leads to inconsistent contact. He calls this a “big no‑no.” Instead, the sternum should remain forward and the lead knee slightly flexed, a posture reminiscent of Seve Ballesteros’ own bunker stance.
For a typical greenside bunker shot Armitage positions the ball just ahead of the middle of his stance. The strike point sits in the middle, with the sternum directly over or just in front of the ball. This alignment controls the swing’s low point and ensures the clubhead enters the sand at the correct spot.
“I’m looking at a really square stance,” he explains. “I’ve opened the face, taken my grip, and have a wide stance with a low handle. I then move my chin, sternum and belt buckle onto the ball—or just in front of it.”
Mastering these setup fundamentals makes consistent bunker shots much more attainable.
