By Bob Rosburg, PGA Champion and TV Golf Commentator

You can control the distance of any sand shot by modifying two things: the length and speed of your swing. A short, slow swing with a cupped wrist will result in a short, lofted spinning shot. A longer faster swing, with a firm wrist, will produce a lower, longer-rolling shot with much less spin.

Combine those two tips with these fundamentals and I guarantee you will improve your accuracy and consistency out of the traps:

1. Open the face of your club. To open the clubface, rotate the grip in your hands; DO NOT REPOSITION YOUR HANDS.

2. Choose the "size" of the sand cushion you want to use by picking a grain of sand that is an inch or two behind the ball.

3. Make sure your forearms take a leadership role and make an assertive swing that finishes well past the ball.

4. Control the distance using a short and slow swing (for lofted, spinning shots) or a longer, faster swing (for lower, longer rolling shots).

5. Restrict your lower body movement and your foot movement. This will keep you focused and increase your consistency.

The Natural Golf Sandshot:

Rotate the wedge in your hands to open the clubface in the Straight Line Setup.

Align your stance slightly left of the target line and pick a spot in the sand an inch or two behind the ball.

Make an assertive swing through that spot so the ball flies out on a cushion of sand.