The Bump and Run or Chip Shot

We are striving as golfers to develop a more consistent game. Whether it is becoming straighter off the tee, making more putts or simply just making better contact with the ball through the hitting zone. One area on the golf course where we can become more consistent and in turn experience better results relatively quickly is around  the greens and in particular, chipping. The idea behind a good chip shot is to have the ball land on the green and role toward your intended target. 1/3 of the total distance of the shot is in the air, 2/3 of the distance is spent running on the green toward the hole. The key to a good chip shot is the set-up position. It is designed to help you make better contact, by hitting down on the ball, allowing the loft to get the ball airbone.

Grip:

Regular grip, choked down for feel and control. The hands are always going to be ahead of the ball at set-up and throughout the stroke.

Stance and Posture:

Feet are slightly narrower than shoulder width apart with the weight more on the front foot. The stance is aligned left of the target (open) with the shoulders remaining (square) to the target and the knees will be slightly flexed. Arms are hanging in a nice relaxed position with the hands ahead of the clubface or forward. Ball position should be more in the back of the stance to ensure making contact with the ball first on the downswing. To achieve this, stand with the ball in the middle of your stance. When you open your stance, the ball will be closer to the back of your stance.

The Chipping Stroke:

The stroke is made with arms and shoulders only. Almost like a putting stroke (do not try and help the ball up into the air). Hitting up at the ball will cause you to hit the ball fat or thin. The weight will remain on the front foot throughout the entire swing and the hands will always remain ahead of the club head. This will ensure that the wrists do not become too active during the stroke. Try to make the club face the target as long as possible. Your backswing is always shorter than your follow through, ensuring that you are accelerating through and not decelerating. It is easier to control distance by accelerating rather than decelerating.

Club Selection:

Mike Weir has been quoted saying "the idea of one club for all chip shots is not one that most pros adhere to". The thinking of most amateurs players is to use the most lofted club for short shots. This is not always the most efficient way to play. If you have a 50 foot chip, a club that is too lofted like a lob wedge, will require a large swing to get the distance needed. Your margin for error is therefore much higher and your success rate decreases. A club with less loft, 7 iron for example, will require less backswing allowing better contact, lower trajectory and will be able to run towards the hole. Practice this shot and chip your way to lower scores.