Bump and run - Strategy in the approach
In golf, not every approach shot needs a full swing or a high-arcing wedge. Enter the bump and run—a low-trajectory shot that rolls toward the hole like a putt after a short carry. While it might not look flashy, the bump and run is a powerful, strategic weapon that can save strokes and reduce risk, especially when the conditions or lie aren’t ideal for a lofted shot.
What Is a Bump and Run?
The bump and run is an approach shot played with minimal air time and maximum ground roll. Typically struck with a lower-lofted club like a 7-, 8-, or 9-iron, the goal is to land the ball just onto the green or the fringe, letting it roll out toward the hole.
This shot is particularly effective when:
- You’re close to the green but don’t have much room to fly the ball.
- There’s little to no hazard between you and the hole.
- The greens are firm and fast, making high shots tough to control.
- You have a tight lie or fairway-like conditions.
Key Strategy – Why Use It?
The bump and run is all about simplicity and control. Instead of trying to fly the ball high and judge spin, you rely on predictability—rolling the ball like a long putt.
Strategic advantages include:
- Lower risk: Less chance of chunking, blading, or spinning off target.
- Better in wind: A low shot won't be affected by gusts.
- Easier distance control: Especially on fast greens, letting the ball run can help with precision.
How to Execute a Bump and Run
Here’s a step-by-step guide to executing this shot:
1. Club Selection
Choose a lower-lofted club like a 7-iron for more roll, or an 8- or 9-iron for slightly more carry. The general rule: the lower the loft, the more the ball will roll.
2. Set Up for Success
- Stance: Narrow your stance, feet about a clubhead apart.
- Weight: Slightly favor your lead foot (around 60/40).
- Ball Position: Just back of center in your stance.
- Hands: Ahead of the ball, creating a slight shaft lean.
3. The Stroke
- Use a putting-like motion with minimal wrist action.
- Keep your swing compact and controlled.
- Focus on making clean contact, brushing the grass, not digging.
Practice Skills: Build the Bump and Run Into Your Game
Here are three drills to develop your bump and run:
1. The Landing Spot Drill
- Place a towel or alignment stick 2-3 feet onto the green.
- Practice landing your shots on the towel, letting them roll out.
- Change your club to see how each affects rollout.
2. Putt with an Iron
- On the fringe, hit short bump and run shots using your 8-iron like a putter.
- Focus on tempo, follow-through, and distance control.
3. Distance Ladder
- Set up targets at 5, 10, and 15 yards.
- Try to bump and run to each target with the same club.
- Learn how to adjust your stroke length, not your power.
Final Thought
The bump and run is more than just a safety shot—it’s a strategic play that belongs in every golfer’s toolbox. By learning how to judge rollouts and control contact, you'll find yourself avoiding blow-up holes and setting up more makable putts. It’s not about power—it's about precision.
So next time you’re just off the green, ask yourself: Do I really need a lob wedge… or is it time to bump and run?