Two Proven Drills to Elevate Your Bunker Game, According to a Top Instructor

Bunkers are a source of anxiety for most recreational golfers. Whether stemming from insufficient practice or flawed technique, sand traps consistently challenge even the most seasoned weekend players.

David Armitage, a GOLF Top 100 Teacher, understands this all too well — and he is dedicated to changing that. While he teaches every aspect of the game, bunker play is his passion. In particular, helping students overcome their fear of sand.

Check out the full video below, or read on for an excerpt detailing the two drills Armitage recommends for improving your bunker play.

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Rake Drill

One of Armitage’s preferred drills utilizes a tool readily available in any bunker: a rake. He positions it behind the ball at roughly a foot’s distance, ensuring that any sway or backward movement during the swing will make contact with it. The drill helps golfers understand just how vertical the swing plane needs to be for a proper bunker shot.

“If I drift off the ball on the backswing, I’m gonna hit the rake,” Armitage says.

The rake also helps golfers ensure the downswing is steep and that the low point of the swing is positioned correctly. Armitage advises starting slowly — so as not to accidentally strike the rake — and using the drill to build the sensation of the correct motion.

“Do it slowly,” he says. “Maybe just do it in very slow motion just to get the image and the feeling.”

Once you grow comfortable with the drill, you can gradually build up to a full-speed swing.

Line Drill

The second drill is attributed to Ernie Els. Armitage explains that Els would draw two lines in the sand, set up with a wide stance, and make swings focused on striking the sand between those lines. He would then repeat this process two or three times before actually hitting a ball.

“That’s what the pros do, and one of the best players in the world,” Armitage says.

The takeaway for amateurs is the same. Rather than immediately hitting balls, begin by practicing the setup and the strike.

“Do the line drills first, get that impact where you want it, and then take that to the ball,” he says.

This drill helps develop a consistent feel for controlling the low point in your swing and an understanding of where the clubhead should enter the sand. If you can contact the sand between the lines with consistency, you’ll have no trouble splashing the ball out of the bunker when it matters on the course.

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