How to Improve at Disc Golf

Background:

This guide is intended to help newer players to begin to improve their Disc Golf skills. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a definitive resource to become a Disc Golf pro. The resources provided have been helpful in improving the skills of many players and should be of help to the reader.

The author is NOT a pro. In fact, he is still using many of these resources to improve his game. The information provided is biased to the author’s experience and his advice is therefore suspect. Take it with a grain of salt and use the listed resources to find other opinions.

If one is a motivated researcher, one would be best served by ignoring the driveling here and skip to the “Resources” section.

Absolute Beginners:

Beginning Disc Golfers usually believe their first challenge is distance. This is partially true, but the primary cause of short distance is poor technique, especially the angle of release. The first goal should be to drive properly, not necessarily to drive far.

  • Get and use a Stingray or a Stratus (mid-range) for drives.  Use it until it goes at least 150 feet without veering off to the left.  Then get a Leopard, Cheetah or Cyclone
  • Get and use an Aviar Putt and Approach to use when close to the target.
  • Buy the CHEAP plastic types first. It is better to learn what works first, then invest in higher grade plastics.
  • Learn to throw these discs FLAT, nose down and 10-15 feet high. A throw out in the open should not go 80′ in the air and slice to the left.
  • Read the Grips article on DiscGolfReview.com (see resources section).

Beginners:

  • Watch the Dan Beato video on YouTube.
  • Do not let ego get in the way of learning. The Boss  is NOT a good disc for most people throwing it.  Wait until a Teebird or Sidewinder will go 325 feet or so before moving up.
  • Use the DiscGolfReview.com Technique Troubleshooter to improve driving technique.
  • Read the “Short Arm” putting technique article on DiscGolfReview.com. It’s not for everyone, but it’s good to try it.
  • Learn to drive with a putter and mid-range discs. This builds distance and accuracy.
  • For lower scores, practice putting more than driving. The Perfect putt 360 game is a good way to practice putting without getting bored.

General Advice:

  • IGNORE ALL ADVICE if it takes the joy out of the experience. The sport should be fun.
  • Start slow (1). High speed throws mask errors. Muscle throws go far at first, but good technique wins in the end.
  • Start slow (2). Slower speed disks will fly properly for newer players. Higher speed discs will require POOR technique to get distance at first.
  • Play with experienced players, especially those with more skill. Observe what works and what does not.
  • Don’t wait to try different grips and techniques. One should learn Backhand, Forehand, Overhand (Tomahawk/Thumber), Hyzer throws and Anhyzer throws. Concentrate on what works best, but don’t neglect the other techniques.

Resources (Links):

Videos:

Articles:

Websites:

  • DGCourseReview.com
    • Great forums
    • reviews of courses including maps and pictures
  • DiscGolfReview.com
    • reviews of discs and bags.
    • Great forums too.
  • DiscGolfValues.com – DG store
  • DiscGolfCenter.com – DG Store
  • MarshallStreetDiscGolf.com – DG Store
  • EatSleepDisc.com – DG Store