The bunker shot is said to be the easiest shot for tour pros, and yet it remains ... one of the hardest shots for amateurs. Why? Well, as Titleist staff member James Sieckmann explains in this video, bunker shots become very difficult when you don't set up properly. As James tells us, many amateurs set up far too open in an effort to cut across the ball. This is unnecessary and leads, unfortunately, to dropping the club on too shallow a plane. This causes fat shots, thin shots and everything in between.

Instead, follow James' simple keys for setting up square to your target line, with a wide, stable base. Then, pulling off a high soft shot is just a matter of hinging the club, pulling the handle towards your lead lag and letting the club head pass your hands as you splash the sand. Follow these basic thoughts and watch your bunker play improve immediately.