There are all kinds of discs used in the game of disc golf. If you have ever tried playing this great game with an everyday frisbee, you have probably had a poor experience. Frisbees just aren’t right for disc golf! By using discs that are specially designed for this sport, you stand a better chance of improving your scores and having a much better time on the field.
Every disc is made with a specific flight pattern in mind. When thrown flat, a driver should go straight as an arrow (stable) whereas others can turn right (understable) or even fade slightly left (overstable). These intended flight patterns exist in all of the discs but today, we are going to focus on disc golf drivers.
Today, we will guide you through the steps of throwing a disc golf driver so you can start playing this popular sport with friends and family. Maybe you’ll even start playing professionally! Continue reading our ultimate guide so you can throw a disc golf driver better than any of your competitors.
The Proper Way to Throw a Disc Golf Driver
This article is not just for beginners! Whether you are learning from scratch or just want to perfect your game a little, you should be aware that comfort and technique are two of the most important factors to achieving success on the disc golf course.
When it comes to technique, there are various ways of throwing, releasing, and following through. The more you play, the more you will develop these techniques in your unique style. Techniques can differ for each throw depending on what your intention and focus are and the disc you are using.
Speed is most important when throwing the disc further or if the wind is behind you. If there is wind, your release speed is key as lagging can let the wind build up and interfere with the disc’s speed and distance.
Disc golf can be played in different conditions and this is why strength is another important factor. If it’s windy or rainy, more strength can help the disc go further despite the conditions. If strength is the focus of your drive, then you will want to use heavier discs for the furthest possible throws.
Aiming a Disc Golf Driver
Your aim and throw are significantly impacted by your grip, the wind-up, and the release. All players have their own style and, depending on the shot they want to make, their throw can develop too.
Form and Stance
When throwing a disc golf driver, your stance is important. You can stand still for putting and then have running starts for longer shots. Remaining balanced and your point of release is what matters most in your form.
For a good posture, keep your feet spaced properly apart (about shoulder-width apart). Try and get lower to the ground for a better balance. Start with your knees slightly bent into a shallow crouch. This allows you to generate more power through your legs which will then be transferred to the disc at the point of release.
Some players also use a straddling stance where they face the target while keeping their feet in a parallel position. However, this method is best for backhand throws when the disc is to your left-hand side. The disc should be to your right side if you’re left-handed and vice versa. Move the disc in a forward motion before releasing it when your arm is fully extended.
You can also attempt a foot-forward stance but this doesn’t give you as much balance. This is a great form for short throws or putts, however. A less common stance is the side-straddle where your feet form a line to the target instead of facing it.
The Grip
Each player has a unique grip but there are several correct or acceptable ways to grip a driver. We all have grips that work best for us, whether it is a loose or tight one. When developing the ideal grip, there are three main parts to it. These are the disc orientation, finding the seam, and your finger placement.
You must consider the disc’s orientation to your arm. The disc should be seen as an extension to your arm. If you grip the driver incorrectly, it will angle upwards and not travel very far.
When finding the seam, you need to make a line from its mid-point between your index and middle fingers to the middle of your wrist. The axis of the disc needs to sit against this seam. Angle your wrist downward. This will help keep the disc aligned with your arm but do not keep your wrist straight as the disc will then be used in the wrong direction.
Your finger placement is critical. Your thumb should rest on top of the driver where it feels comfortable. Your other fingers must be below the disc, also in a comfortable position. Your index finger will put pressure on the disc’s top while your other fingers apply additional pressure to the driver’s lip.
The Windup
No, this isn’t some kind of joke! The windup serves an extremely important function. For the most straight and powerful throw possible, you need to take your time with your windup and focus.
For each backhand and forehand throw, your windup will be the same but different from when you are putting. Ensure you are in control or it will result in uneven throws. Use the same windup technique and approach with these throws, every time.
Your Release
This is considered the most difficult component of throwing a docs golf driver. When you release the disc, your arm must be fully extended as well as your fingers. Your legs should be thrusting your body weight forward.
Test your release by targeting something on a wall. Stand 10 feet away from your target and try to hit it, until you master your preferred stance.
Your forehand and backhand release points may differ but this is usually because your target is not always in the same position or place so you may not require the same momentum. Do not release too early as this can generate too little power and push your disc off target.
In Summary
The key to throwing a disc golf driver is PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE. In time, you will find your own technique and stance so you can become a master on the disc golf field.
