The success to most sand shots is the position of the clubface on impact. For years I tried to hit my sand shots with a square clubface only to be met with disappointment. Most of the time, my sand wedge would turn into a shovel that did not facilitate contact with the ball. It was very frustrating until I was taught to open my club face in order to allow the bounce to do its magic. Now, sand shots do not bother me one bit. However, there are a few things to remember when hitting out of the sand that will increase your chance of success.

First, let me address the importance of an open club face when making a sand save. Opening the club face allows the technology of the club to come into play. It allows the sole of the club to slide through the sand because of the bounce. If you are not sure what bounce is, then take a look at my infographic:

Opening the clubface on a sand shot is important and here is why:

There are three other aspects of the sand shot that should not be forgotten. First, most of the shot is completed with very little lower body movement. I find swinging with my arms helps control the depth of club in the sand which in most cases is about an inch.

Second, do not decelerate through contact. Many times, amateurs will slow the club head down and try to help the ball launch out of the sand. The exact opposite is required. Maintaining a constant speed through the ball (or slightly faster) is important. The speed of the clubhead will determine the distance the ball travels, so like all chip shots accelerating through contact is key to success.

Lastly, follow through! Your club head should travel at least to the hips or higher. By creating a longer follow through the chances of my second point happening are slim. Stopping our follow through robs power from contact causing the ball to land short all the time. A long follow through is very important out of the sand.

Opening the clubface on a sand shot is important. It allows for better touch, control, and additional spin on the ball as it launches out of the hazard. When you head to the practice area, try hitting some balls out of the sand with an open clubface. You will be surprised how easy it is to hit your ball.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!