Frisbee Golf Techniques

If you find yourself looking for a new way to enjoy the outdoors and get exercise, then Frisbee golf might be a great idea. According to Innova Disc Golf, Frisbee golf is one of the fastest-growing sports in America, with more than 100 new courses installed every year. If you'd like to start playing, a few simple guidelines can have you banging chains before you know it.

  1. Driving

    • While there are dozens of different techniques for driving, the most common and most useful is probably the basic backhand throw. It's best to start learning with a slower disc, such as a fairway driver or mid-range; these discs are more forgiving and easier to learn. Grip the disc with all five fingers curled under the rim and your thumb flat on the top, holding on as hard as you can (this is called the "power" grip). With your arm at shoulder level, reach behind you as far as you can. Pull the disc across your chest in a straight line. Think of pulling a rip cord to start a lawn mower; don't curl your arm. Most players incorporate an X-step, a small run-up, into their drives. It's okay to just leave this out at first, but if you do use a run-up, keep it simple and focus on your arm speed and release.
      It's vital that you learn early on to keep the disc low and level. As top pro Cale Leiviska said, "smooth is far." Don't think that the secret to distance is over-powering the disc. That's more often the secret to shanked drives and injuries. Instead, focus on making your drive one fluid motion, and let distance come with time.

    Aiming Shots

    • With a backhand throw, you should produce a relatively straight throw that fades at the end. The natural flight path can be altered by adjusting the angle of release. Keeping the far edge lower than the edge in your hand will cause the Frisbee to bend farther to the left (for right-handed players) for a "hyzer" shot. Releasing the disc with the far edge higher than the edge in your hand will cause the disc to curve to the right for an "anhyzer" shot. These shots require practice to master but are a great way to increase the versatility of your game.

    Putting

    • As in ball golf, a good putting game can make up for other inconsistencies. Start by lining up your dominant foot in a straight line with the basket, with your other foot behind you a little further than shoulder's width. Unlike with the drive, you should let your first finger hold the edge of the Frisbee, with your thumb still flat on the top and your other fingers fanned out along the bottom. This is called the "fan" grip, which is also useful for accurate mid-range shots. Rock your weight onto your back foot, and pull the disc in close to your chest. As you transfer your weight back to your front foot, release the disc in a clean, straight line directly at the center of the basket. The ideal shot won't wobble a lot but will make a clean straight flight into the chains.
      As with any other sport or activity, the secret to success is practice. That means not only playing rounds but also practicing your throws in open fields and putting at home. If you would like hands-on assistance, don't be afraid to ask local players for their advice.