Playing the Bump and Run Shot

The Purpose of the Bump and Run: The bump and run is a critical shot for your arsenal, especially when playing on courses where you need to navigate the fringe and run the ball up to the hole. It provides a reliable, low-trajectory alternative to high-lofted chips, making it much easier to control your distance and direction.

The “Chippy” Setup: To hit this shot effectively, set up as you would for a traditional chip:

Open Your Hips: Position your hips so they are open to the target.

Foot Positioning: Keep your feet inside your shoulder width.

Ball Position: Place the ball in the center of your stance.

Passive Lower Body: This is primarily an upper-body motion; you do not need to activate your lower body for this shot.

The Forward Press: The key difference between a standard chip and the bump and run is the “forward press”. Move the handle of the club forward toward the target until it rests against the center of your lead thigh. This forward lean delofts the club and ensures a lower, rolling trajectory.

The Putting Motion: Treat the actual swing as if you are using a putter. The distance you take the club back should be determined by the same feel you would use for a 20-foot putt. After impact, hold your finish with the club pointing directly at the target to build confidence and ensure a consistent path.

Questions and Answers

Q: How do I determine how far back to swing?

A: Meredith suggests pretending you have a putter in your hand. Use the same backswing length you would use to putt the ball from your current distance to the hole.

Q: Why should I hold my finish?

A: Holding your finish with the club pointing at the target helps build confidence and ensures you aren’t “quitting” on the shot. It confirms that your club path followed through toward your intended line.

Q: When is the best time to use this shot instead of a high chip?

A: Use the bump and run when you have plenty of green to work with and no major obstacles between you and the hole. It is a much lower-risk shot because the ball stays closer to the ground