How To Throw Straight In Disc Golf (Easily)

Kyle Labine | PDGA #145718

Updated on:

Paul McBeth about to throw straight

Are you struggling to throw straight every time you step up to the teepad?

Can’t figure out why?

That’s where I come in.

With my years of professional tournaments and coaching, I am confident that you will leave this article with several new ideas on how to throw straighter!

Common Mistakes Most Beginners Make

  1. Throwing Nose Up: Many beginners tend to throw the disc with its nose angled upwards. This causes the disc to climb rapidly and drop sooner than desired, resulting in a shorter and less accurate throw.
  2. Releasing Too High: If the disc is released too high, it tends to stall and veer off course, causing inconsistency in the disc’s flight path. It’s crucial to find a balanced release point for optimal distance and direction.
  3. Choosing Discs That Are Too Fast or Overstable: Beginners often opt for faster, overstable discs, thinking they’ll cover more distance. However, these discs require more power and precise release angles, making them harder to control for new players.
    I always recommend my students start off by buying a Discraft Buzzz or an Axiom Hex. Both are easy to throw, very stable, and are perfect discs to learn how to throw straight with.
  4. Low Reachback During Throw: A low reachback hinders the power and control of the throw. A good reachback, aligned with the target, is crucial for generating power and maintaining control over the disc’s flight.

I would start with one of these four mistakes and focus on one every time you play. It won’t be long until you realize the culprit(s) and then you will be able to hone in on it make slow adjustments.

Read Next: Learn The Different Types Of Discs

By addressing these common mistakes, you can significantly improve your ability to throw straight, enhancing your overall performance in disc golf.

The Importance of Throwing Straight in Disc Golf

Now, why does throwing straight in disc golf matter so much? The reason is straightforward: accuracy. A precise, straight throw could be the difference between hitting the target or landing in an unfavorable location.

A disc thrown straight ensures it follows the desired trajectory, reducing the likelihood of extra throws and improving your overall score.

Step-by-step Guide to Throwing Straight in Disc Golf

Mastering a straight throw might seem daunting initially, but following these steps can simplify the process significantly:

If you are a visual learner like I am, check out this detailed breakdown on how to throw straight for beginners:

  1. Proper Grip: Your grip on the disc plays a pivotal role in the throw’s outcome. Hold the disc firmly but not overly tight, with your fingers positioned along the rim and your thumb on top. A comfortable grip sets the stage for a smooth release and a controlled flight.
  2. Body Alignment: Your body’s alignment sets the direction of the throw. Make sure your feet, hips, and shoulders point toward your target. This alignment primes your body for the throw and directs the disc on the correct path.
  3. Throwing Technique: When it comes to accuracy, a backhand throw often proves most effective. Draw the disc across your chest and release it with a quick snap of your wrist. The power and control inherent in this technique can significantly enhance your ability to throw straight.
  4. Practice: As with any sport, practice is vital in disc golf. Regular practice sessions allow you to comprehend the disc’s behavior and fine-tune your technique. The more you throw, the more proficient you become. I recommend starting with a throwing putter or midrange before making your way up to a more straight flying stable driver.

Tips to Improve Accuracy in Disc Golf

Besides mastering a straight throw, here are some more disc golf tips to bolster your accuracy in disc golf. These include practicing diverse throw types, refining your timing, and critically analyzing your throws to pinpoint areas for improvement.

Remember, progress might be gradual, but every small improvement takes you one step closer to a better game.

Wrapping it all up..

Throwing straight in disc golf may initially appear challenging, but with dedicated practice and the right techniques, your game can improve dramatically.

Keep in mind, consistency is key, and every throw takes you one step closer to becoming a disc golf pro. So, go ahead, embrace the techniques, and prepare to leave your