Fairway bunkers can be very penalizing if you do not know how to play out of them.

Attempting to hit unrealistic shots is the biggest problem that golfers have. Many times players try for too much distance and end up leaving the ball in the bunker.

If you find yourself in a fairway bunker, weigh your options and know your ability level.

When playing out of a fairway bunker remember that your footing will not be very stable. When your footing is not stable, you are going to have to use one more club to go a prescribed distance.

If you normally hit a 7-iron 150 yards you might use a 6-iron or even a 5-iron to get that 150 yards.

To make your fairway bunker play easier remember the following:

1. If your feet are an inch down in the sand, your club becomes an inch longer. Choke up an inch.

2. Because loose sand is not stable, your swing will be mostly with the upper body.

3. Try to hit the ball very cleanly and try not to take any sand before striking the ball.

4. Make sure you use a club with enough loft to get you safely out of the bunker.