Ultimate Frisbee Throwing Tips

Ultimate Frisbee is a globally growing team sport played using a Frisbee disc. Knowing how to throw properly is an essential basic skill and driving mechanism of the game. The goal is to get the disc to the opponent's scoring zone by passing it to your team members. Throwing technique can be improved by focusing on key elements such as grip, body position and release.

  1. Grip

    • Your grip of the disc can affect how well you throw. Grips vary depending on the type of throw. Most throws are variations of the backhand and forehand throws.

      For a backhand throw grip, place the index finger on the outside rim of the disc. Tuck the rest of your fingers along the inside rim with the middle finger extending toward the center. The middle and index fingers are switched on forehand throws with the middle finger against the inside rim. Both grips allow more control over the direction and stability of the throw.

      More experienced players grip the disc with all fingers for maximum power on the throw, though this compromises their control.

    Body Positioning

    • Your body position and foot placement are crucial to the right balance and form for a good throw. Feet should be shoulder width apart with knees bent to keep your torso upright. This maintains balance by keeping your center of gravity over the hips.

      Face your chest, hips and throwing shoulder toward your target. Point your feet in the same direction as your knees and hips to avoid injury.

    Stepping and Releasing

    • Concentrate on flicking the wrist rather than throwing the disc with your arm. Step forward with your nonpivot foot as you release the disc. The force behind the throw should run from the shoulder to the elbow to the wrist and finally the fingers.

      Picture it as a whiplash motion rather than an arclike swing with your wrist snapping forward.

    Spinning and Curving

    • Increased wrist snapping causes the disc to spin while flying. Spinning allows it to glide smoother, farther and straighter through the air. This can also be achieved by tilting the disc slightly back as you throw it.

      Releasing the disc at an angle will make it curve either from left to right or vice versa. Be sure to match the angle of your hand to the angle of the disc. Any inconsistencies will result in a wobbly trajectory.

      Slower speed throws focus more on wrist action, while faster throws gain power from the arm movement.