How To Hit A Bump and Run

Golf is a game of finesse, strategy, and skill, and one of the most challenging shots to master is the bump and run. Also known as the chip and run, this shot requires precision, control, and a deep understanding of the dynamics involved. Whether you're a novice golfer looking to enhance your skills or an experienced player aiming to refine your technique, this guide will take you through the essential steps to successfully execute a bump and run shot.

I. Understanding the Bump and Run

The bump and run is a shot played close to the ground, typically with a lower lofted club such as a pitching wedge, 9-iron, or even a 7-iron. It's employed when you're near the green with a considerable distance to cover but minimal obstacles between your ball and the hole. Unlike a high-lofted chip shot that requires the ball to fly a significant distance, the bump and run utilizes roll to navigate the ball toward the target.

II. Selecting the Right Club

Choosing the appropriate club is crucial for executing a successful bump and run. Opt for a club with less loft to minimize the height the ball will travel. Generally, a pitching wedge or a 9-iron is a popular choice, but depending on the lie, distance, and conditions, you might even go for a 7-iron. Experiment on the practice range to determine which club works best for you in various scenarios.

III. Set Up and Address

Stance: Position your feet closer together than your usual full swing stance. This promotes stability and a more controlled swing.

Ball Position: Place the ball slightly back in your stance, closer to your back foot. This encourages a downward strike, resulting in a lower ball flight.

Weight Distribution: Shift your weight slightly toward your front foot, maintaining a 60-40 or 70-30 distribution. This helps ensure clean contact and prevents the club from digging into the turf.

IV. Swing and Execution

Minimal Wrist Action: Keep your wrists firm throughout the swing to maintain a consistent, straight-line contact. The bump and run is all about a controlled, no-nonsense motion.

Controlled Backswing: Focus on a shorter backswing compared to a regular full shot. This controlled backswing generates the necessary power while maintaining accuracy.

Accelerate Through Impact: Initiate your downswing with your hips and lead with your hands, allowing the club to strike the ball crisply. The key is to accelerate through impact, creating a clean, low trajectory.

Follow Through: Maintain a compact follow-through, extending your arms slightly in the direction of your target. This promotes accuracy and control over the shot.

V. Reading the Green

Understanding the green's slope, speed, and texture is paramount in executing a successful bump and run. Analyze the terrain between your ball and the hole to predict how the ball will roll after landing. Take into account uphill and downhill slopes, as well as any breaks in the green that could influence the ball's path.

VI. Practice, Practice, Practice

As with any golf shot, mastering the bump and run requires consistent practice. Spend time on the practice range honing your technique and getting a feel for how different clubs react to various distances and lies. Simulate different scenarios to build confidence in your ability to judge distances and execute the shot with precision.

The bump and run is a shot that demands finesse, control, and a deep understanding of both technique and the course's conditions. By selecting the right club, setting up correctly, executing a controlled swing, and reading the green, you can add this valuable shot to your arsenal and tackle challenging situations near the green with confidence. With practice and patience, you'll be able to navigate the ball expertly along the ground, impressing your fellow golfers and improving your overall game.