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The Battle of the Bunkers

Escaping the Sandpit with Style

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Hey there, golf warriors! Today, we’re venturing into the sandy side of the course—those bunkers, traps, and beach-like hazards that seem to pop up exactly where you don’t want them. Bunkers are like the quicksand of golf; one wrong step and your game could sink faster than a golf ball into a water hazard. But don’t worry—I’ve got your back. Let’s dive into the art of bunker escapes with a touch of humor and, hopefully, without too much sand in our shoes.

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  1. The Sand Trap Strategy: Aim for Survival
    First things first: getting stuck in a bunker isn’t the end of the world (though it might feel like it if you’ve found yourself in one of those “death traps” where the lip is higher than your dreams of breaking 90). The key? Survival. Don’t overthink it. Your goal is simple—get out and live to putt another day. Sure, you’d like to land softly on the green, but let’s be honest—getting anywhere onto solid grass feels like a win.
  2. The “Flop It and Flee” Approach
    Ah, the flop shot. When executed correctly, it’s one of the most beautiful shots in golf, and when it goes wrong, it’s like flinging a shovelful of sand in your face. The trick to a good flop out of a bunker? Open the clubface wide, aim slightly behind the ball, and swing like you’re trying to toss a pancake onto the green (without the sticky mess). The real key is your confidence—flop it and flee before anyone realizes you were as nervous as a cat in a dog park.
  3. The 3 Types of Bunker Players: Which One Are You?
    There are three types of golfers when it comes to bunkers:
    • The “Pretender” – This golfer steps into the bunker and instantly regrets every life choice that led them here. Their bunker shot might go sideways (literally), but they’ll put on a brave face and laugh it off. Bonus points if they brush off the sand with a half-smile, pretending it’s no big deal.
    • The “Digger” – Armed with a sand wedge and a mission, they dig into the bunker with full commitment. Every swing gets them closer to the surface… but mostly it’s just a lot of sand. By the time they’re out, they’ve practically built their own bunker.
    • The “Pro” – This rare breed strides into the bunker like it’s their personal beach. They barely disturb the sand, and the ball floats gracefully out, landing inches from the pin. These people exist to make the rest of us look like amateurs, but we all secretly want to be them.
  4. The Secret? It’s All in the Follow-Through
    Here’s the big secret that’ll change your bunker game: the follow-through is everything. You need to swing through the sand like you’re cutting through butter with a hot knife. Don’t stop after contact—keep going, and let that momentum carry you (and the ball) to freedom. Think of it as the golf equivalent of running through the finish line, not to it.
  5. Own the Sand Dance
    Lastly, let’s not forget that bunkers aren’t just about survival. No, my friends, they’re about style. The moment you step into that sandy pit, you’re not just a golfer—you’re an artist about to perform a masterpiece. Own the bunker like it’s your stage. And when you finally hit that ball onto the green, do the post-swing sand dance—you know, that little twist as you casually sweep the sand with your foot, pretending that was all part of the plan.
  6. Keep Calm and Rake On
    When all is said and done, remember: bunkers are temporary, but raking is forever. After your escape (or at least after you’ve dug yourself out), it’s time to channel your inner zen gardener and rake the bunker smooth for the next poor soul. It’s golf karma—leave it better than you found it. And don’t forget to smile while you rake—it’s part of the healing process.

So there you have it, fellow golf gladiators—the battle of the bunkers, waged and (hopefully) won. Next time you find yourself knee-deep in sand, remember these tips: survive with style, embrace the flop, own the follow-through, and most importantly, laugh it off. You’ll get out, eventually, and when you do, you’ll be a little wiser—and possibly a little sandier. Until next time, may your swings be clean, your sand traps be shallow, and your escapes be legendary. Swing on, my friends!

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Struggling with Focus? Here’s How a Pre-Shot Routine Can Transform Your Golf Game

Struggling to focus on the course? A solid pre-shot routine boosts confidence, sharpens your mind, and leads to better swings and lower scores. Here’s how to build your own.

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There’s nothing more frustrating than flushing it on the range, only to crumble once you step onto the first tee. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone—and your swing might not be the issue.

More often than not, what’s missing is mental consistency.

The truth is, your brain craves structure, especially when tension is high and pressure builds. That’s where a pre-shot routine comes in—a simple, repeatable sequence that calms your mind, centers your focus, and allows your body to do what it already knows how to do.

Whether you’re lining up a tee shot or facing a tricky downhill chip, a reliable pre-shot routine gives you the confidence and clarity you need to execute.

What Is a Pre-Shot Routine And Why It Matters?

A pre-shot routine is a structured sequence of actions and thoughts you go through before every shot. It’s your mental warm-up.

Think of it like an autopilot system—by triggering familiar steps before each swing, you reduce overthinking and let muscle memory take over.

“The brain doesn’t like surprises. Routines give us the freedom to perform without hesitation.”
— Dr. Bob Rotella, Golf Sports Psychologist

Tour pros swear by it. Watch Rory, Tiger, Nelly Korda—you’ll notice they do almost the exact same thing before every shot. It’s no accident.

A great pre-shot routine:

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  • Calms nerves
  • Builds rhythm
  • Improves focus
  • Creates consistency under pressure

The 5 Key Steps to a Simple, Effective Pre-Shot Routine

No two routines are exactly alike, but the best ones include these core elements:

1. Pick a Target and Commit

Before anything else—decide what you’re aiming at. Pick a small, specific target (like a tree behind the green, not just “the fairway”).

Then—and this is key—commit to it. No second-guessing. You’ve got one shot. Choose it and trust it.

2. Visualize the Shot

Take a moment to see the shot you want to hit in your mind’s eye. High draw? Low spinner? Picture it from start to finish. This connects your brain and body.

Visualization is a powerful cue to bring your focus away from distractions and into the present.

3. Feel the Swing

Take one or two slow, deliberate practice swings. Match the feel to your intended shot. Don’t just go through the motions—feel the tempo, balance, and rhythm.

This tells your muscles what they’re about to do.

4. Step In with Purpose

This is the physical transition into go-mode. Walk up, align your clubface to the target, set your feet, and glance once more at the target.

At this point, you’re no longer thinking—you’re executing.

5. Pull the Trigger Without Delay

Once you’re set, don’t freeze. Take a breath and go. Overthinking kills more good swings than bad mechanics ever will.

From setup to swing, this part should take 5–10 seconds max.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcomplicating the routine: Keep it short. 15–20 seconds total is plenty.
  • Changing it mid-round: Consistency is the key. Stick with your process—even if you’re struggling.
  • Focusing on outcome: Once you’ve committed, let the result go. Focus only on the execution.

Pro Tip – Practice It Like a Skill

Here’s where most amateurs drop the ball: they practice swings, not routines.

Next time you hit the range, practice your full routine on every shot. Visualize, commit, breathe, swing. You’ll not only groove your motion—you’ll make your process automatic.

Build One That Fits You

Here’s a simple example you can adapt:

  1. Pick your target
  2. Visualize the ball flight
  3. Take 1 practice swing
  4. Step in, align clubface, set feet
  5. Glance at target
  6. Breathe and swing

It should feel natural, not robotic. Once it does, you’ve got something you can rely on in the clutch.

The difference between a great shot and a chunked one often happens before the club ever moves. With a consistent pre-shot routine, you’ll play with more confidence, stay focused under pressure, and hit more solid shots—even when nerves kick in.

Want to play better golf without overhauling your swing? Start with your routine.

And when you’re ready for more real-world, no-BS golf tips that make you better—come back to ClickItGolf.com.

@clickitgolfofficial Struggling with focus on the golf course? Discover how a simple pre-shot routine can transform your game, boost your confidence, and improve your consistency. Learn the key steps to developing your own routine and take your golf to the next level! #GolfTips #PreShotRoutine #GolfImprovement #MentalGame #GolfConsistency #ClickitGolf #GolfAdvice #GolfPerformance ♬ original sound – Clickit Golf
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Scheffler vs. DeChambeau: A Tale of Two Golf Giants

A Clash of Styles in Modern Golf

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In the ever-evolving world of professional golf, few rivalries capture the contrast of style and substance like Scottie Scheffler versus Bryson DeChambeau. While both have claimed massive wins and global headlines, their paths to success and how they play the game couldn’t be more different. Here’s a deep dive into their strengths, weaknesses, career highlights, and what makes each stand out in today’s competitive landscape.

Backgrounds and Styles

Scottie Scheffler
The Dallas-born Scheffler embodies a classic, workmanlike approach to golf. Known for his calm demeanor, efficient swing, and remarkable consistency, Scheffler has risen to the top of the world rankings with little flash but elite-level substance. His game is built on balance, precision, and one of the most reliable tee-to-green performances the sport has seen in years.

Bryson DeChambeau
Nicknamed “The Scientist,” DeChambeau has taken an analytical and experimental approach to the game. He’s redefined physical fitness in golf, adding serious bulk to increase driving distance. Known for using single-length irons and obsessing over launch angles and biomechanics, Bryson is a true disruptor. His aggressive style polarizes fans and analysts, but it undeniably commands attention.

Strengths

Scheffler

  • Tee-to-Green Excellence: Leads the PGA Tour in strokes gained tee-to-green.
  • Consistency: Rarely misses cuts and often finishes in the top 10.
  • Short Game: Exceptional touch and creativity around the greens.
  • Mental Game: Composed under pressure; rarely rattled.

DeChambeau

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  • Driving Distance: One of the longest hitters in the game; regularly over 320 yards.
  • Innovation: Willing to take unconventional approaches for marginal gains.
  • Power Play: Dominates par 5s and shortens long courses with his length.
  • Confidence: Self-belief and boldness to attempt shots most won’t.

Weaknesses

Scheffler

  • Putting: Historically his weakest stat, though he’s shown improvement.
  • Media Presence: More reserved; lacks the big personality that moves the needle for fans and brands.

DeChambeau

  • Inconsistency: Can be volatile—either dominating or struggling.
  • Course Management: Aggressiveness sometimes leads to trouble.
  • Injury Risk: His physical transformation has come with some health setbacks.

Biggest Wins

Scottie Scheffler

  • The Masters (2022)
  • The Players Championship (2023)
  • Multiple WGC and Signature Events
    As of 2025, Scheffler has claimed over 10 PGA Tour titles and continues to rack up top finishes in majors and elite events.

Bryson DeChambeau

  • U.S. Open (2020)
  • Arnold Palmer Invitational (2021)
  • Multiple LIV Golf Wins
    DeChambeau made headlines by joining LIV Golf, where he’s claimed multiple high-stakes victories, including a team championship and a dominant individual LIV win in 2023.

Career Earnings

Scheffler:
Over $50 million in PGA Tour earnings alone, with additional income from endorsements like Nike, TaylorMade, and Rolex.

DeChambeau:
Estimated $60–$80 million, largely boosted by a reported $100+ million LIV Golf contract and additional prize money. His endorsements have shifted due to his controversial LIV move, but he remains a marketable figure.

Similarities

Both are U.S.-born and played collegiate golf (Scheffler at Texas, DeChambeau at SMU).

Each has reached the top 10 in the Official World Golf Ranking.

Both have won majors and represented the U.S. in Ryder Cups.

Each has shown a willingness to be different—Scheffler through quiet dominance, DeChambeau through outspoken innovation.

Key Differences

TraitScottie SchefflerBryson DeChambeau
Playing StyleTraditional, consistentAggressive, experimental
Physical TransformationMinimalExtreme (bulk and strength)
EquipmentStandard setupSingle-length irons
Public PersonaReserved, groundedOutspoken, controversial
Tour AffiliationPGA Tour loyalistLIV Golf convert

Final Thoughts

Scheffler and DeChambeau represent two archetypes in modern golf: one a quiet technician, the other a showman scientist. Whether you admire Scottie’s stoic efficiency or Bryson’s radical reinvention, both are changing the game in their own way. And in a sport where individuality meets performance, there’s room—and demand—for both.

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Why Proper Club Fitting Is the Real Game Changer

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If you’ve ever walked off the 18th green thinking, “It’s not me, it’s the clubs,” well… you might be half right.

As a PGA Professional who’s watched thousands of swings—from scratch players to first-timers—I can tell you that one of the most overlooked keys to better golf is proper club fitting. Not just buying shiny new sticks off the rack, but taking the time to find clubs that are tailored to your swing.

You don’t need a Tour card to get Tour-level precision. Let’s talk about why club fitting matters, what it changes, and how it can truly transform your game from the tee box to the final putt.

The Myth of “Good Enough”

“I’m not good enough to be fit for clubs.”

That’s the most common thing I hear—and it’s completely backwards.

High-handicap golfers have even more to gain from club fitting than low-handicappers. Why? Because the equipment can help you fix ball flight, optimize distance, reduce mis-hits, and build confidence—all without having to reinvent your swing.

Off-the-rack clubs are designed to fit “average” specs. But no two golfers are the same. Length, lie angle, shaft flex, grip size—these all play a massive role in how the club interacts with your body and the ground.

What Happens in a Proper Club Fitting?

At its core, a fitting session is about matching the equipment to your natural swing—not forcing you to swing a certain way to fit the gear.

Here’s what a proper club fitting includes:

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1. Interview & Swing Assessment

A certified fitter (or PGA pro like myself) will ask about your current set, ball flight tendencies, common misses, and goals. Then we’ll watch you hit some shots to get a baseline.

2. Launch Monitor Data

Using tools like TrackMan or Foresight, we’ll capture numbers like:

  • Ball speed
  • Launch angle
  • Spin rate
  • Club path and face angle
  • Carry distance and dispersion

These numbers don’t lie—and they tell us what to tweak.

3. Testing Head & Shaft Combinations

You’ll hit several combinations of club heads and shafts to find what gives you the best performance. One degree of loft or a different shaft flex can make a huge difference.

4. Dialing In Lie Angle & Length

Lie angle affects directional control—too upright, and you might pull shots left; too flat, and you’ll miss right. Club length affects control, consistency, and strike location.

5. Grip Size & Feel

Don’t underestimate this. A grip that’s too thick or too thin can alter your grip pressure and release pattern.

Real Results—Backed by Data

One of my students recently went through a full iron fitting. He was using clubs he bought off the rack 10 years ago. His miss was a push-fade, and he struggled with distance control.

After 90 minutes, a combination of slightly shorter shafts, softer flex, and two degrees more upright lie changed everything. His dispersion tightened by 40%, and he gained an average of 12 yards per club. More importantly—his confidence skyrocketed.

And it wasn’t just him. Across the board, golfers who get fitted:

  • Gain more consistent contact
  • Reduce directional misses
  • Improve distance gapping
  • Hit more greens in regulation
  • Score better, without changing their swing

The Mental Game Boost

Here’s a secret: it’s not just about numbers. Fitted clubs give you confidence. When you know the tool in your hand is built for you, you swing freer, commit more fully, and stop second-guessing every shot.

Confidence leads to better swings. Better swings lead to better results. It’s a cycle—and it starts with the right equipment.

What About Cost?

Yes, a proper fitting might cost $75–$150 depending on where you go. And yes, custom-fit clubs may be slightly more than what you’d pay at a big box store.

But if you’re already spending time and money on golf, wouldn’t you want to get the most out of it?

A one-time investment in fitting can save you years of frustration—and possibly hundreds spent chasing fixes that won’t work with ill-fitting clubs.

Look—I’ve given thousands of lessons in my career, and nothing changes a golfer’s outlook faster than finally swinging clubs that work with them, not against them.

Whether you’re a 5 handicap trying to fine-tune yardages or a 25 handicap tired of slicing your driver, a proper club fitting can absolutely be a game changer.

You don’t need a new swing—you just need the right tools.

So before you spend another dollar on swing gadgets or tip videos, find your local PGA professional or certified fitter and book a session. Your game (and your sanity) will thank you.

Want more ways to play better without starting over?
Visit ClickItGolf.com every week for practical golf improvement tips, equipment reviews, betting insights, and advice from golfers who live the game every day.

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