Disc golf, also known as frisbee golf, is a fun and easy to play sport. Many people enjoy playing frisbee golf as it provides numerous, physical as well as mental, health benefits. The sport is much similar to throwing plastic frisbees, except a few differences. In frisbee golf, the disc must reach the target hole (basket) in order for one to score.
Since the basket is placed at a considerable distance, it requires the player to correctly know the dynamics of a throw in order to win. The correct motion for a throw is complex and it may be difficult to learn at first. However, if you know the skill and practice enough, you too can master the frisbee golf throw. In this article, I will explain the steps of throwing a frisbee golf and then give an overview of some tips which will help you to improve your throw.
The Elements of a Throw
A frisbee throw is dependent on a number of steps. Namely, the grip, stance, windup, and release. It is crucial that the player focuses on mastering each step to ensure that the target is scored.
It is important to note that a throw may also be impacted by environmental factors. Variables such as the direction of the wind and rain can also influence the direction of the throw.
1. The Grip
There is no one right, standard way to grip a golf frisbee. A loose grip works for some players while a tight one for others. However, you should take care to ensure that your grip is not too tight or loose otherwise the disc can slip out in the wrong direction. Modify your grip and keep it something in the middle, not too sturdy or too loose.
Now that you’ve learnt to grip the disc, two things should be kept in mind when attempting a throw. Firstly, it is essential that the golf disc is in alignment with your arm. If the golfer is holding the disc, angling it upwards or downwards, his or her grip is incorrect and the disc will fly away from the target. Secondly, it is also important that the disc should be in the seam of the hand. The thumb should be on top of the disc while the rest of the fingers should be wrapped underneath the ring.
2. The Stance
A stance refers to the way you stand when generating a throw. This is arguably the most important aspect of a quality throw. A good stance is primarily composed of good posture.
Altering posture allows you to control the power that is transferred to the disc when throwing. This can be changed depending upon the distance of the throw. Two popular stances that you can try include:-
• Backhand Throw
A backhand is the best position for beginners since it is easy. To attempt this, always stand sideways to the target, and keep the weight of your body placed on your back foot.
For the disc to fly in a straight line the dominant shoulder should be facing the target. The feet should ideally be kept apart and straight in front of the target so that they make a 90 degree angle with the target.
• Forehand Throw
Point your non-dominant shoulder to the target keeping your feet shoulder-width apart. Hold the disk firmly and throw. This position is hard for beginners so keep practicing to make perfect.
3. The Windup
Contrary to what most people think, windup serves an important role in your game. The throw evolves from the wind-up and if proper attention is not paid to having the right wind-up then it seriously affects the quality and consistency of your game.
The wind-up changes based on the throw however it is mostly the same for most throws. In short, the windup should be slow, calculated, and methodical.
4. The Release
According to most players, this release is the most difficult aspect to master in frisbee golf. This is because the release is where the entire throw comes together, thus even the slightest bit of mishandling at this point may impact results.
When releasing, ensure that the disc is released when the arm is fully extended. For a forehand throw, release the disc when your hand is pointing at the target and the arm reaches a horizontal position. The speed of the disc depends on how fast you flick your wrists.
For a backhand throw, swing your arm forward and release the disc once the elbow reaches the belly button. Straighten out your arm and transfer your weight to your front foot.
Tips to Improve Your Technique
The following tips will ensure that you achieve the best throw at each try.
1. Hip Rotation
For a quality throw, one should get as much hip rotation as possible at the same time keeping your balance by making appropriate changes in your posture is the key. This translates to higher velocity and power in the throw.
2. The Reach Back
A greater reach back thrusts more power, momentum, and speed onto the disc. To further enhance these the arm should be fully extended. The reach back itself depends on how much you rotate your hips during the release.
3. Look Away from the Target
Contrary to what most people do after they reach back, look towards the disc. This causes a greater hip rotation leading to greater velocity and distance. However, it is recommended that you look back to the target at the point of release.
4. Follow Your Elbow
For a more efficient throw lead with your elbow and keep the disc close to your chest. This increases the control you have over the disc before the release which leads to more velocity. The elbow shout is straightened out before the throw. By doing this the person can get a whipping motion onto the disc.
5. The Final Step
A strong final step is crucial. The momentum generated during the drive leads you towards it. After the final step the back leg can be used to push off giving the throw more distance.
6. The Follow Through
Allowing yourself to move in the direction of the throw leads to a more effective drive. This makes the ending smooth and can prevent falling over.
The Bottom Line
In short, disc golf is complicated and requires a lot of skills. Through practice, one can easily master these skills. Following these techniques can lead to an effective drive, a perfect release, higher velocity, and momentum on the disc and the disc hitting the target.
