Embrace the Bump and Run

If you’re a newer golfer, you may be preoccupied with learning the basics, aiming to keep your game really straightforward for now. If the bump and run is not in your current arsenal, please know that it’s a simple shot, and one that can help you out in several common short-game predicaments.

What is the Bump and Run:

In the simplest terms, instead of hitting a high lofted chip, you bump the ball at a lower trajectory from outside the green, and let the ball release and roll on the green towards the hole. The bump and run is typically only used when you are in the fairway approaching the green, or green-side and not too far out. As noted below, there are a number of situations where a simple bump and run can save you strokes and headaches, i.e. when low-hanging tree branches are killing the angle of your potential lofted chip shot…

When a bump and run may come in handy:

• Tight Lie Situations
• Tree Trouble
• When Playing Links Golf
• You Have a Downhill Lie
• A Lot of Green to Work With
• Windy Conditions

How to hit the bump and run:

To hit a simple and effective bump and run, first choose a lower lofted club. The 7 iron is popular for this shot, and some golfers may choose an even longer iron based on preference and feel. Once you have club in hand…

• Stand the club up, and choke up on it a bit
• Keep your feet closer together than normal, only one club head apart
• Place the ball at the back of your stance
• Place more weight than normal on your front foot
• Create a controlled pendulum swing, the longer the arc the further the bump and run

Thats it, the balls flies lower, so you plan it out more like a putt. Less spin, more rolling, letting you work with the natural slopes of the green as you approach the hole. Wants some video on the subject? CLICK HERE!

Give this easy yet effective shot a try. You’ll be thankful next time you find yourself 5 yards out next to an expansive green, or under a low tree with all of your buddies watching your next move. 

-Scott Prestin