Disc Golf Technique

Disc Golf Technique
Though slightly unconventional in nature, disc golf is a very enjoyable and enriching game. It may take some time to learn and master all the disc golf techniques, but soon you will begin to see why this game has such a loyal fan base.
Disc golf is a fairly new recreational sport that is easy and inexpensive to play. Knowing the proper disc golf techniques obviously helps, but the aim of the game is so elementary that anyone can play it with ease. The game is quite similar to actual golf, the only differences being that instead of a golf ball you use a plastic disc, and instead of putting the ball into a golf cup you have to put the disc into a metallic basket.

The similarities between golf and disc golf are aplenty, and this is seen as soon as the game begins. The disc golf techniques come into play as soon as the game begins from a raised concrete platform, that is quite similar to a golf tee. Each person throws their disc towards the basket, while getting closer with each subsequent throw.

The scoring system is similar to that of golf, in the sense that you need to get the disc in the basket in a specified number of throws. For instance, if you take 5 throws to complete a 3 par basket, then you are 2 over par. There are specific disc golf courses where you can play the game, and each course has a different set of tees for different difficulty levels. Even the equipment used for mastering disc golf techniques are similar to golf. For each throw you can choose a disc between drivers, rollover discs, mid-range and putters. The weight of the throwing discs ranges between 150 - 180 grams, and the length of the disc golf hole will not be more than 300 feet.

Disc Golf Technique for Beginners
Apart from choosing the right disc, there are a few disc golf techniques and tips that can improve one's game. The throwing technique makes it easier to cover larger distances and gain better accuracy in the throws. This may take some time to perfect, but it helps to improve the level of playing by considerable margins. The way one throws is not just about power, as there are other factors that come into play as well. Read more on disc golf throwing techniques.

The Grip
The way you grip the disc can greatly help you to achieve a stronger and far more accurate throw, and with some experience you can develop the most well suited throw for you. Except for your thumb, all 4 fingers must be gripping the disc, and you should be throwing the disc firmly rather than letting it slip out of your grasp. You have to learn to make use of the forearm and the wrist effectively, and you will be unable to proceed on to more advanced disc golf techniques unless you develop a good grip. This right grip is especially important for learning disc golf putting techniques as well.

The Pull Through
The action of pulling your arm behind in order to generate power for your throw is another vital part of disc golf techniques. You need to use the rotational ability of your shoulder to obtain an effective pull through, while simultaneously holding the disc as close to your chest as possible while keeping your elbows bent. More than the power and strength in your arms, you need to focus on using the momentum and the movement of your arm to get more distance in your throw.

The Footwork
Your balance and footwork will also play a large part in the effectiveness of your throw. Maintaining a good center of gravity and sense of balance and direction is very important, and the proper way of footwork is a 3 step process known as the x-step. The amount of weight you place on your feet while running up, the movement of your hips and the coordination with your throw is what will enable you throw better, faster and harder.

The Follow Through
By carrying out a good and smooth follow through you will be able to get a better throw, and also avoid injury. A bad follow through can be a major disadvantage as it carries a high risk of potential injury with it. Knowing when to loosen and when to stiffen your body while throwing will also enable you to achieve a better follow through.

The game may seem complicated and unconventional at first, but the idea here is to have as much fun as you can. Over time and with practice you will begin to master all disc golf techniques and get better at the game.