The Bump and Run Golf Shot- When and the Way to Apply It

The bump and run shot, also referred to as the chip and run or run-up, is a golf shot every golfer must recognize the way to make.  It needs to be used only in certain situations, which we are going to cover later.  But for the golfer who really needs to improve his short game, similar to the lob shot this method of playing the ball adds another weapon to your arsenal.  And it isn't that tough to accomplish with a little practice.

First, just what constitues a bump and run shot?  It is a shot executed around the green where the golf ball is struck to roll on the ground a greater amount.  Generally when we pitch a shot in the direction of the green, our ball is going to remain in flight most of the time, and then it will roll a short amount.  It is right you can use this shot for greater control, but unless you are just showing off you should choose to strike all your shots for better control.  It's just under certain conditions the bump and run shot will be the one we'll choose.

At what time might the bump and run be the best golf shot?
1.     Provided you will find no hazards between you and your target.  This not only includes bunkers, but additionally wet grass or any terrain which will allow it to become uncertain how a golf ball will roll through.  If you do not know how a golf ball will release when rolled, wiser to try and fly the ball over it.
2.    If it is especially windy.  When the wind is going to influence the flight of the ball, the bump and run is going to eliminate how the ball might be effected.

3.    When you have a tight lie.  A tight lie is one where the golf ball lies on bare earth or extremely short grass.  The margin for error to make a bona fide pitch shot will be reduced, because if the ball gets struck just a little fat, the wedge will bounce from the turf, causing you to skull the golf shot or knock it awfully thin.  You'll hit a little higher on the golf ball using the run-up golf shot.

A few things you will want to apply for this shot will be:
1.    Start with the ball near the center or a little back within your stance, the weight to the front foot with the feel of leaning in the direction of the target.
2.    Make the club shorter by gripping downward on the club, stand closer to the ball, and press your hands forward.  This will decrease your club loft.
3.    Shorten the backswing and the follow-through.  The shorter the stroke, the improved control with the golf shot.
4.    This is crucial:  keep your wrists firm in the course of the stroke, and hit down and through the golf ball.  By no means attempt to lift it.

The final point is the selection of golf club.   Most people seem to prefer using different lofted clubs depending around the golf shot they tend to hit, perhaps going to as low as a five iron for the real long run.  I prefer using one club, my wedge, as I believe I can manipulate the one club for different results.  But that is just me.  The main thing is always to do whatever works for you.