Disc golf is an exciting sport that involves throwing a frisbee-like disc over a course and putting it into a basket. This is an enjoyable recreational activity for people of all ages and skill levels, and it’s a great way to spend time with friends.
Unlike traditional golf, players don’t have to follow the rules of golf to play disc golf, but they do need to adhere to disc golf etiquette. This includes playing nice, picking up trash, and respecting the local vegetation.
Grip the disc – The basic grip for throwing is the fan grip. This is a simple and effective technique for throwing a disc, allowing a tight grip without compromising angle control. Generally, the thumb rests on the top flight plate directly over the middle and ring fingers for maximum leverage. The pointer and pinkie finger also rest along the inner rim for accuracy.
Choose the right disc – The type of disc you throw depends on your skill level. There are three main categories of discs: distance drivers, putters, and mid-range discs.
Distance Drivers – These discs can fly the longest and have the most power. They are primarily used for distances of over 300 feet by intermediate to advanced players but can also be thrown for shorter distances.
Drivers are the most difficult discs to throw, so you need a strong arm and good technique to achieve accurate results with this type of disc. The best distance drivers have a thinner profile, a sharp outer edge and thick rims for maximum aerodynamics.
Putters – These discs are a little slower than drivers but still have the potential to fly long distances. They are easier to throw and are ideal for beginners, although they don’t have the same power as a distance driver.
Mid-range discs – These discs are the most versatile for beginners, as they can be used both for throwing and putting. They are a little more rounded and have a slightly sharper edge than putters, making them an ideal choice for beginners and intermediate players.
The main difference between a mid-range disc and a putter is that the former has a softer rim for more controllable shots, while the latter has a harder rim for more power and speed. Both are good choices for beginner players, but the softer rims of mid-range discs can be more forgiving of misplaced throws.
Learn about the flight characteristics of the discs – The flight rating indicates how stable a disc will be, which is an important factor in throwing a disc. It tells you how much a disc will fade or turn on release, an important aspect of controlling its flight path.
Overstable – An overstable disc will fade strongly to the left when thrown by right-handed throwers and to the right when thrown by left-handed throwers.