GOLF has a habit of presenting challenges you have never practiced for. One of the trickiest is finding your ball in a bunker where you can only get one foot – or sometimes neither foot – into the sand.

While the situation may look intimidating, a few simple adjustments to your set-up, swing and expectations can help you escape successfully. The objective is straightforward: get the ball back into play and avoid leaving your next shot in the bunker.

Remember: In awkward bunker situations, success is measured by escape rather than precision. Stay balanced, swing under control and focus on getting the ball safely back into play.

1. Slow it down

Maintaining balance is crucial when playing from an awkward stance. Because your footing is less stable than normal, resist the temptation to swing aggressively. Instead, make a slightly slower, more controlled swing to ensure you strike the sand exactly where you intend to. A smooth, balanced motion will give you the best chance of producing a clean bunker shot.

2. Prioritise the escape

This is not the time to focus on holing out or even getting close to the pin. Choose the safest target that allows you to make a confident swing and get the ball out of the bunker. Your primary goal should be simple: ensure your next shot is played from the fairway or rough, not from the sand.

3. Get low and match the slope

Since the grass edge sits above the bunker surface, you will need to lower your body position. Bend your knees and get as low as possible while remaining comfortable and balanced. Allow your shoulders to match the angle of the slope, and position the ball slightly forward of centre in your stance.

4. Let your arms do the work

This is one of the few shots where the swing should be driven almost entirely by the arms. Keep your lower body as stable as possible to maintain balance. By minimising leg movement, you will improve your chances of striking the sand a couple of inches behind the ball, allowing the club to slide underneath and lift the ball out cleanly.