My Golf Blueprint
YOUR GOLF FIELD GUIDELearn · Practice · Play

MY GOLF BLUEPRINT

The bump-and-run: a low-risk short-game option

An iron clubhead beside a golf ball on short grass.
Photo: Mikhail Nilov / Pexels

A bump-and-run uses modest loft to carry a small obstacle and then roll. It works best when the landing and rolling surfaces are predictable.

Work through it

  1. Inspect the fringe for rough patches or uneven ground.
  2. Choose a short iron or wedge with enough loft to clear it.
  3. Make a compact motion and aim at the landing point.
  4. Watch how much the first bounce slows the ball.

A practical example

A small fringe followed by a broad green can favor a bump-and-run; a steep bank may make a different landing route safer.

Practice task

Compare an 8-iron and pitching wedge from the same lie. Land five balls on the same patch and measure their finishes. Choose the pattern with better control.

Common mistakes

Do not force a low shot through thick rough or across a bunker. A rolling route must actually exist.

Choose a comfortable movement and change one variable at a time. Stop if a movement causes pain; a qualified coach can adapt the task to your mobility and experience.

Sources and further reading

Related video

Watch the demonstration, then return to the practice check in this guide.

Choose a chip for the lie and landing space

Keep learning

Educational guide. See our editorial standards and review status.

Your progress

Was this guide helpful? Send feedback or report an error.

Questions about this lesson?

Ask below. Keep questions relevant and respectful. First contributions are moderated.

Sign in to comment