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A Six-Step Guide to Master the Bump and Run Chip

By Brendon Elliott, PGA
Published on

Short game, short game, short game.
You hear how important it is to have a good short game and, well, it's true: performance around the greens is the make-or-break factor when it comes to playing well.
One go-to shot to learn? The bump and run. The vast majority of tour professionals adhere to this philosophy, opting for a low trajectory in their short-game shots unless a high shot is absolutely necessary.
The benefits of keeping the ball low in short game shots cannot be overstated. A low trajectory reduces the margin of error, and increases the chances of getting the ball close to the hole.
It's also a powerful tool for managing distances effectively. By using the ground for propulsion, golfers can achieve a consistent carry and roll, giving them control over the distance of their shots. This is particularly useful for navigating varying lengths and obstacles around the green and tailoring shots to specific distances with increased accuracy.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you learn to hit lower shots around the green:
1. Select a club with less loft, such as a pitching wedge or 9-iron, to achieve a lower trajectory.
2. Position the ball slightly back in your stance, closer to the right foot (for right-handed golfers) and adopt a slightly narrower stance than usual.
3. Place your hands slightly ahead of the ball at address to promote a downward strike, allowing you to compress the ball against the turf.
4. Focus on a shorter backswing and follow-through to ensure a more controlled and compact swing, minimizing the height of the shot.
5. Execute the shot with a steady and smooth tempo, focusing on maintaining a consistent rhythm throughout the swing.
6. Spend time practicing hitting lower shots around the green, adjusting your technique as needed to achieve the desired trajectory and distance control.
Prioritizing getting the ball on the ground quickly promotes a more efficient and reliable approach to short-game shots. This practical approach empowers you to take control of your game and improve your performance.
Mastering the art of the bump and run in short-game shots is paramount for a golfer’s success around the green. These six steps will have you well on your way to doing so!
Brendon R. Elliott, PGA

Sorrento, FL

Brendon Elliott

Director of Instruction, Freelance Golf Writer

After 16 remarkable years of nurturing young talent and fostering a love for golf through The Little Linksters Golf Academy, Brendon Elliott is excited to announce the transition of leadership to esteemed Coach Ricky Collado in 2025. As the baton is passed, Coach Ricky will take charge of all operations and become the primary point of contact for any Linksters-related inquiries. As Brendon steps into a new chapter, the focus will shift to launching and growing BE A GOLFER, a new academy dedicated to competitive teenage golfers. This initiative will continue both in-person and remote coaching, harnessing years of expertise to nurture the next generation of golfing talent. Further expanding horizons, Brendon will also dedicate time to One More Roll Golf Media. This venture aims to collaborate with various golf media outlets and businesses, delivering high-quality written, video, and voice content. Despite these new ventures, Brendon will remain closely connected with Little Linksters. A commitment to collaboration with Coach Ricky will continue, particularly with projects like the PGA Junior League, ensuring a lasting impact and smooth transition. “I am thrilled about the future of Little Linksters under Coach Ricky Collado’s leadership. This transition marks a change and an exciting new direction for me and the academy. I look forward to contributing my efforts towards developing competitive young golfers and advancing in the golf media landscape.” ~ Brendon R. Elliott, PGA More About Coach Brendon... Brendon Elliott is a distinguished PGA Professional who has received over 25 prestigious industry awards recognizing his contributions and influence in youth golf, most notably, the 2017 PGA of America National Youth Player Development Award. With numerous appearances on the Golf Channel and local news outlets in Florida, Brendon has established himself as a respected educator and influencer in the golf industry. Renowned for his expertise in all aspects of golf, he is a sought-after speaker at golfing events and panels. In the past three years, Brendon has expanded into media, writing for esteemed outlets such as PGA.com, PGA Magazine, Golf.com, GolfWRX.com, RG.org, and many others. Elliott is also part of the “Quiet Please Golf Podcast” crew and hosts a livestream show on the Golf Live App called “Monday Evening Tee Time.” Brendon’s dedication to advancing the sport has made a significant impact on the golf community.

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