How to hit a bump-and-run

Close to the green with no obstacles between you and the pin? You're in bump-and-run territory. Good days or bad, this simple shot will always show up for you. Make a few small adjustments, and you'll knock it on with little risk. —Joe Plecker, one of Golf Digest's Best Teachers in Georgia

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Choose a short iron
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  • Select an 8- or 9-iron over a higher-lofted wedge
  • Reducing the clubface loft means less backspin and more roll
  • With a less-lofted club, you can make a smaller, simpler swing
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Stand closer to the ball
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  • Move in a few inches from your normal stance
  • Standing closer pitches the shaft more upright at address
  • An upright shaft aligns your arms with the club
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Raise the handle
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  • Tilting the handle upward makes the club less likely to dig
  • Feel your lead wrist getting into a more arched or flexed position
  • This adjustment adds stability to your lead hand and wrist
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Match up your forearm
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  • Make sure the inside of your lead forearm lines up with the grip
  • This alignment promotes a more shoulder-driven swing
  • Wrist action is good for high shots, not for bump-and-runs
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Make a Putting stroke
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  • Think of the motion as stroking a long lag putt
  • Rock your shoulders to move the club back and through
  • Keep your head still until the ball is on its way
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