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Disc Golf Etiquette Tips Straight From The Pros

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Introduction

Disc golf is a sport that combines the thrill of golf with the precision and skill of throwing discs. As with any sport, disc golf has its own set of rules and etiquette that players should follow to ensure a fair, safe, and enjoyable experience on the course. Whether you’re a seasoned disc golfer or new to the game, understanding and practicing proper etiquette is essential. In this article, we will delve into the world of disc golf etiquette and provide you with invaluable tips from the pros. Drawing on the wisdom and experiences of professional disc golfers, we will explore various aspects of etiquette, including respect for the course and environment, prioritizing safety, maintaining proper course etiquette, upholding sportsmanship and honesty, being mindful of distractions, and fostering communication and courtesy.

By adhering to these principles and incorporating them into your disc golf game, you not only enhance your own experience but also contribute to the overall growth and sportsmanship of the disc golf community. So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets of mastering disc golf etiquette with guidance from the pros!

1. Respect The Course & Environment

disc golf etiquette

a. Leave No Trace

Disc golf courses are often situated in natural settings, and it is crucial to respect and preserve the environment. As responsible disc golfers, we should leave no trace behind. This means carrying out any trash we generate and disposing of it in designated bins. Additionally, be mindful of the course’s flora and fauna, refraining from damaging trees, bushes, or any other vegetation. By leaving the course as we found it, we contribute to the overall beauty and sustainability of the environment.

b. Be Mindful Of Wildlife & Other Park Users

Disc golf courses often coexist with other park users, including wildlife. It is essential to show respect and consideration for both. Avoid disturbing animals or their habitats. Keep noise levels down and be mindful of their presence. Additionally, yield to pedestrians, cyclists, or any other individuals who are not playing disc golf. Let them pass before throwing to ensure their safety and maintain a harmonious experience for everyone.

c. Repair Divots & Footprints

During gameplay, divots and footprints can occur, particularly on tee pads and in high-traffic areas. It is good etiquette to repair any divots you create when teeing off and smooth out footprints in the teeing area or near the baskets. Using your foot or a provided tool, carefully restore the ground to its original state. This helps maintain the integrity of the course and ensures a level playing surface for all players.

d. Follow Course-Specific Guidelines

Each disc golf course may have specific guidelines or rules in place to protect the course and its surroundings. These guidelines can include restrictions on certain areas, special rules for sensitive terrain, or limitations on access during specific times. It is important to familiarize yourself with these guidelines and adhere to them accordingly. Respecting and following the course-specific guidelines demonstrates your commitment to being a responsible disc golfer.

2. Safety First

a. Wait For Players Ahead

Safety should always be a top priority in disc golf. It is important to exercise patience and wait for the group ahead to clear the fairway before throwing. Throwing while others are still within range can lead to accidents and injuries. By waiting for the path to be clear, we create a safer environment for everyone on the course.

b.. Yell “Fore” As A Warning

Sometimes, even with the utmost care, a disc might veer off course and pose a potential danger to others. In such situations, it is crucial to immediately shout “Fore” as a warning. This alert gives individuals time to react, take cover, or be aware of the incoming disc. By doing so, we prioritize the safety of others and demonstrate responsible play.

3. Proper Course Etiquette

a. Maintain A Reasonable Pace Of Play

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all players, it is essential to maintain a reasonable pace of play. This means being aware of the speed at which you and your group progress through the course. Take into consideration the number of players on the course and adjust your pace accordingly. If a group behind you is consistently waiting, it may be appropriate to allow them to play through. On the other hand, if you are catching up to the group in front, be respectful and patient. By maintaining an appropriate pace, we create a positive atmosphere for everyone.

b. Respect Tee Box Order

Tee box order is an integral part of the game and ensures fairness. The player with the best score on the previous hole usually tees off first, followed by the player with the second-best score, and so on. Respecting the tee box order promotes a smooth flow of play and allows each player their rightful turn. This tradition also helps maintain a friendly and competitive spirit throughout the round.

c. Be Quiet & Still During Throws

When a player is preparing and executing a throw, it is important to maintain silence and avoid any distractions. Any unnecessary movement or noise can disrupt a player’s concentration and potentially affect their performance. Show respect for fellow players by remaining quiet and still until the throw is complete. This practice creates an environment where everyone can focus and perform at their best.

4. Sportsmanship & Honesty

a. Call Penalties On Yourself

Sportsmanship and honesty are fundamental aspects of disc golf etiquette. If you commit a rule violation, whether stepping out of bounds or incurring a penalty stroke, it is important to acknowledge it and take the appropriate penalty. Honesty upholds the integrity of the game and ensures fair play for all participants. By taking responsibility for our actions, we set a positive example and contribute to a culture of sportsmanship on the course.

b. Offer Encouragement & Respect

Disc golf is not just about individual performance; it is also about building a supportive community. Offer words of encouragement to your fellow players, regardless of their skill level. Celebrate good shots and achievements, and provide constructive feedback when necessary. By fostering a positive and respectful atmosphere, we create a sense of camaraderie and motivate each other to excel.

5. Be Mindful Of Distractions

a. Limit Phone Usage

In the digital age, it can be tempting to constantly check our phones. However, excessive phone usage on the disc golf course can disrupt the flow of play and distract other players. It is advisable to limit phone usage to essential matters or designated breaks. By minimizing distractions, we maintain focus and create an environment conducive to an enjoyable disc golf experience.

b. Control Noise Levels

Disc golf is a sport that requires concentration and mental focus. Excessive noise, whether from conversations, music, or other sources, can disturb other players on the course. Be mindful of your volume and keep noise levels at a minimum. By creating a tranquil and focused environment, we enhance the overall experience for everyone involved.

6. Communication & Courtesy

a. Communicate With Fellow Players

disc golf players

Clear communication is vital in disc golf. Whether it’s discussing the game plan, strategizing, or informing others about your intentions, effective communication ensures smoother gameplay. Keep your group informed about your throws, provide updates on your position, and communicate any necessary information that may affect the round. By fostering open and respectful communication, we enhance the collaborative aspect of disc golf.

b. Yielding & Courtesy On The Course

Disc golf courses can become crowded, especially during peak times. It is important to be courteous and yield to others when necessary. If a group behind you is playing faster, politely offer them the opportunity to play through. When encountering other players, wait for them to complete their throws before proceeding. Demonstrating courtesy and consideration towards others on the course promotes a positive atmosphere and helps build a strong disc golf community.

7. Care For The Equipment

a. Properly Handle Discs

disc golf discsDiscs are essential tools in disc golf, and it is important to handle them with care. Avoid throwing discs in frustration or mistreating them in any way. Treat your discs as valuable equipment and maintain their condition by keeping them clean and free from unnecessary damage. Taking care of your discs not only ensures their longevity but also shows respect for the sport and its equipment.

b. Repair Damage To The Course

Accidents can happen on the course, and sometimes damage may occur, such as broken branches or divots in the fairway. It is important to take responsibility for any damage caused during your round. Whenever possible, repair or report any damage you notice to the course authorities or maintenance staff. By taking the initiative to rectify any unintentional harm, we contribute to the well-being and upkeep of the course.

c. Respect Equipment & Course Property

Disc golf courses often have various equipment, such as tee pads, baskets, signage, and benches. Show respect for these course elements by using them as intended and not engaging in any activities that may damage or deface them. Avoid hanging on baskets, climbing or sitting on signage, or placing excessive weight on benches. Treating the equipment and course property with care demonstrates your appreciation for the facilities provided and helps maintain a professional and welcoming atmosphere on the course.

d. Return Lost Discs

If you come across a lost disc during your round, make an effort to return it to its rightful owner. Discs can be valuable to players, and losing one can be disheartening. Take a moment to check for contact information on the disc or inquire with other players on the course to determine the owner. By making an honest attempt to return lost discs, you exhibit sportsmanship and contribute to a positive and supportive disc golf community.

e. Maintain Personal Equipment

In addition to caring for the course and shared equipment, it is essential to maintain your personal disc golf equipment. Inspect your discs regularly for any signs of wear, such as cracks or warping, and replace them as needed. Keep your bag clean and organized, and ensure that your disc golf bag is suitable for protecting and transporting your discs safely. Regularly clean your discs to remove dirt and debris that can affect their flight characteristics. By maintaining your personal equipment, you can maximize your performance and prolong the lifespan of your discs.

Taking care of the equipment in disc golf is not only a matter of responsibility but also a reflection of your passion for the sport. By properly handling discs, repairing damage to the course, respecting equipment and course property, returning lost discs, and maintaining your personal equipment, you contribute to a positive and respectful disc golf experience for yourself and fellow players.

8. Etiquette In Competitive Play

a. Know The Rules & Regulations

When participating in competitive disc golf, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of the rules and regulations specific to the event. Familiarize yourself with the tournament rules, format, and any additional guidelines. This knowledge helps ensure fair play, avoids unnecessary penalties, and promotes a level playing field for all participants.

b. Accepting Rulings & Resolving Disputes

In competitive play, there may be instances where rulings or disputes arise. It is crucial to approach these situations with a calm and respectful attitude. Accept the decisions made by tournament officials or designated authorities and avoid prolonged arguments or confrontations. Remember, maintaining a positive and sportsmanlike demeanor is essential in competitive disc golf.

9. Involve & Educate New Players

a. Welcome & Guide New Players

As experienced disc golfers, it is important to foster a welcoming environment for new players. Greet them warmly, offer guidance on course navigation and rules, and encourage their participation. By embracing newcomers and providing them with a positive introduction to the sport, we contribute to the growth and inclusivity of disc golf.

b. Teach Etiquette & Rules

Educating new players about disc golf etiquette and rules is crucial for the overall development of the sport. Take the opportunity to explain the importance of etiquette, safety measures, and fair play principles. By passing on this knowledge, we ensure that future generations of disc golfers adhere to the highest standards of conduct on the course.

Conclusion

Disc golf etiquette is an integral part of the sport, promoting respect, safety, and sportsmanship among players. By following the tips and advice from the pros, we can contribute to a positive and enjoyable experience on the course for ourselves and others. From respecting the environment and practicing safety measures to maintaining proper course etiquette and promoting sportsmanship, each aspect of disc golf etiquette enhances the overall integrity and camaraderie of the game. Let us strive to be exemplary disc golfers and ambassadors of the sport, inspiring others to embrace and uphold these essential principles.

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Learn The X-Step NOW!

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A great way to add distance to your backhand drive is to learn and master the proper footwork. With the proper footwork, you can get the lower half of your body engaged in the throw and maximize the power you impart on the disc. This can lead to longer drives and more distance. Sounds great, right?

To engage the lower half of your body in the throw, you’ll want to transition from a standstill throwing motion to one that includes a run-up. Now some players can successfully throw a drive by actually starting to run before their throw. While that does work for some, we’re going to cover the more controlled way of initializing a backhand drive called the X -Step.   

When utilizing the X-Step to begin your drive, you can add more power and distance to your throw without having to sacrifice accuracy.

What is the X step?

You can think of the X-Step as a more controlled way of performing your run-up to your backhand drives. It allows you to increase your momentum by using your legs in during your drive and also gets your body into the perfect position for your reach back.

The X-step is a 3 step run-up. If you are a right-handed player, you’ll begin by stepping with your right foot, then having your left foot come behind your right foot, and finally stepping with your right foot again. This should get you in a great position for your reach back to continue with your driver.

If you need a visual, check out this video of top disc golf professionals’ X-Steps. They are in slow motion and should be pretty easy to follow.

How to perform the X step?

Let’s break down the X-step into smaller steps so we can better understand it. They are as follows:

1. Setting up your drive by aiming your shot.

The first step in the x step is taking aim. When throwing backhand, your body is positioned with your the shoulder of the arm you are throwing with pointed toward the target. This is different than with a forearm drive, where you directly facing the target when you are throwing.

Another thing to keep in mind during this step is you want to position your body where you intend to throw the disc. This way you can extend your arm, with the disc in hand, and pointed it toward your target. The target isn’t always going to be the basket but could be something completely different.

For instance, you could be setting up a hyzer throw around an obstacle. If you are right-handed, you might aim to the right of the obstacle and have the drive hyzer behind the tree and skip toward the basket.    

2. Taking the first step with your dominant foot.

With your body positioned perpendicular to your target, you will take the first step toward the direction you are throwing. If you are using your right hand, you will take your first step with your right foot and if you are using your left hand, you will step with your left foot.

Now you will need to be moving toward your target. To get a better understanding of where you want to plant your first step, think of the top half of your body moving in a straight line toward the target.  Your first step will need to be in front of that imaginary line.  

3. Taking your second step with your non-dominant foot.

On the second step, you will be bringing your non-dominant foot behind your lead foot. So if you are throwing right handed, this will be your left foot and if you are throwing left handed this will be your right foot. This is where the x step gets its name because you are forming an x with your legs.

It’s in this step that you begin your reach back. Think of your disc being on a straight line and you are pulling it straight back away from your target. You’ll also begin to look away from your target and directly behind you.   

4.Taking your third step with your dominant foot again.

The final step is where the magic happens and by magic, I mean power. This step will be taken with your right foot if you are throwing right handed and your left foot if you are throwing left handed.

Your reach back should be fully extended and you will begin to drive your elbow forward. You should pull the disc in a straight line toward the direction you are throwing and as you release the disc your body will begin to turn around your plant foot.

5. Releasing the disc and following through.

On release, you should allow your body to follow through. So your throwing arm will move around your body and behind your back and the arm you aren’t using to throw will move in front of your body. The foot that isn’t planted in front of you will swing around.

When using the X Step, your body is going to generate a lot of force and that force needs to go somewhere after you release your disc. It’s important to maintain that momentum and swing around your planted foot. If you were to just stop after the release you would lose some force and your disc wouldn’t travel as far. It would also take a toll on your body.

Transitioning to the X-Step

A lot of players can find it difficult to start using the x-step, especially when they have developed their throwing technique from a standstill position. It’s a multiple step process and can be tough in the beginning to manage while you are focused on driving with your upper body.

Before trying to use the x-step, I recommend learning a one-step drive. So take a lead step with you dominate foot and use that to position your body for the reach back. Once you have the hang of this, it will be easy to learn the x-step.

When you are comfortable with the one step drive, it’s time to try the x-step. When starting out you don’t want to rush. Going fast doesn’t necessarily lead to a long drive and you usually end up being off balance or sacrificing accuracy.

Take it slow when doing the X-Step. Your target speed shouldn’t be any faster than walking pace but if you are new to the move, you can go slower. When just beginning to transition to the X-Step take in slow and if you notice at any time you are off balance during the movement, stop and start over.

Still Having Trouble?

Once you’ve gotten into learning the X-Step and you are still having trouble, I recommend you watch this instruction video put out by Dynamic Discs. Danny Lindahl does a great job of breaking down footwork and gives you great visuals so you can better understand the process.

Looking for ways to improve your driving? Check on this article for beginner disc golfers!

Flickr Image Creative Commons – Virginia State Parks

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Playing Disc Golf At Night

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If you haven’t tried playing disc golf at night, you should really give it a try. I waited too long and didn’t try it until a friend of mine begged me to go because he didn’t want to play alone in the dark. If I knew how much fun it was when he asked, I would have immediately said yes. I’ve played in the dark multiple times since that first outing and each time I always enjoy it.

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5 Disc Golf Tips For Intermediate Players

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If you’ve played disc golf for some time now, you’ve likely progressed past the beginner stage.

You’ve developed as a player and improved on many aspects of the game. You are likely throwing farther with more control off the tee.

You can likely sink your putts consistently inside the circle and are more confident during those testy putts.

If you are looking to improve your skills as an intermediate disc golfer you are in the right place.

I’ve outlined 5 tips that will help you take your game to the next level.

If you take these tips to heart I promise you you’ll see even more improvement and have more fun on the course.

Without further ado, let’s jump into the list of my disc golf driving tips for intermediate players.

1. Perfect Nose Down

If you want to really improve at the game of disc golf, you are going to want to focus on the small things.

To really excel in the sport, you must get every detail right. One of those tiny details is the nose-down release.

It’s a small change that can make a huge difference in your throw. Well, what do I mean when I say keep the disc’s nose down when you throw it?

It might sound like I mean to keep the disc pointed down to the ground when throwing down, but that’s not it. It would just crash into the ground a few feet from the tee pad.

When we talk about throwing a disc that is nose down we’re saying that the front of the disc is angled down slightly in relation to the direction the disc is traveling through the air.

Why is this important? If you don’t keep the disc’s nose down when you throw, it’s not going to fly as far as it should. Especially when you are driving.

So if you want to drive farther and perfect your game, learn to throw nose down. For more information and tips on this, check out our article here.

2. Master the X-Step

When it comes to throwing in disc golf, we tend to place a lot of emphasis on what the top half of our body is doing.

While our upper bodies are important, a great way to improve your throw is to master the proper footwork.

With the proper footwork, you can get the lower half of your body engaged in the throw and maximize the power you impart on the disc. This can lead to longer drives and more distance.

And I think I can speak for everyone when I say we are all looking to add more distance to our drives. So, what is the X-Step?

You can think of the X-Step as a more controlled way of performing your run-up.

It allows you to increase your momentum by using your legs during your drive and also gets your upper body into the perfect position for your reach back.

The X-step can be broken down into 3 steps. If you are a right-handed player, you’ll begin by stepping with your right foot, then having your left foot come behind your right foot, and finally stepping with your right foot again.

This should get you in a great position for your reach back to continue with your driver. If you’d like to learn more about the X-step, check out our article here.

3. Learn to Scramble

If you are looking to take your disc golf game to the next level, becoming an affective scrambler is a great way to do that.

Being able to get out of those tricky situations on the course consistently is going to lead to better results and lower scores.

So, what do I mean by scambling? Basically, scambling is the ability to recover from a bad throw or less than perfect lie.

For instance, if you find yourself on a par 3 hole and you shank the drive. Once you locate it, it’s behind a bush that obscuring your route to the basket.

If you were a good scamber you’d be able to find a way to get around that brush and set up a good putting position.

If not, you pitch your disc to right or left to set up your next shot. If you are keeping count, that’s going from a par to an extra stroke.

This may not seem like much, but it adds up a lot over a long round and more importantly, your disc golf career.

There are a lot of shots you can develop to help your chances of getting out of trouble on the disc golf course.

Some great shots to develope would be the standstill forehand, the forehand roller and any overhand shot like the tomahawk and the thumber.

They will help when you need to get around, under or over any obstacle that obstructs your throw.

As you play disc golf more, you naturally become better at scrambling but it won’t hurt to practice these situations.

4. Enter a Tournament

Thinking about competing in a disc golf tournament can be scary.

You’ll be placed with other disc golfers some probably better than you and you’ll have to compete in front of a live audience.

These things can keep a disc golfer from entering their first tournament but if you want to take your disc golf skills to the next level entering a disc golf tournament can be the perfect way to do that.

It’s a great way to play the game as it’s designed to play by the PDGA. You also get to test your skills against other disc golfers that are at a similar level to you.

But competing isn’t the only benefit you’ll get out of entering a tournament. Before the tournament, you need to prepare.

That means studying the rules so you don’t loss strokes during play and spending more time practicing to sharpen your skills.

This might seem like a lot to do beforehand, but knowing you have that day coming up is a great motivating factor.

If you haven’t yet played in a disc golf tournament, give it try. You can go here to see the upcoming tournaments. Don’t wait, sign up now. Good luck!

5. Upgrade your Discs

As a disc golfer, the main tool you have at your disposal is the disc. Discs allow you to approach disc golf holes in many different ways.

Depending on the type of discs, it’s stability and it’s shape, you have almost an unlimited amount of choices.

Disc golf manufacturers are producing different types of molds all the time. You have almost an unlimited amount of choices to consider.

As a beginner, you likely filled your disc golf bag with slower, understable discs. Which is perfect for the level of the game a beginner is at.

But if you haven’t upgraded your bag and added new discs since then, it’s time to consider doing that.

Don’t get me wrong, don’t give rid of your understable discs. You’ll still need them for turnover shots, hyzer flips and other shot shapes that understable discs excel at.

But as an intermediate player, you’ve perfected your disc golf throw and increased your arm speed.

You’ll want to get some discs that have a higher turn rating to match your increased arm speed. These are generally referred to as stable or overstable discs.

Thes discs will also serve you well for windy days, skip shots and when you need the disc to flex.

For specific discs recommended for intermediate players check out our article here.

Flickr Image Creative Commons Credit – Jeffrey

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5 Reasons You Should Be Spin Putting

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Without question, the most important part of your disc golf game is putting. Even if you manage to throw super long distances, your lower scores can be hurt if you can’t sink your putts.

Practice and consistency are the keys to putting success. But how do you choose which approach to take?

There are lots of routes to take when deciding on which style to go with. I’ve written about them here. One great option is push putting. Which I’ve covered in detail here.

But the style we’re going to talk about today is spin putting. In this article, I’m going to give you five reason you should be spin putting. Let’s take a look at them.    

1. Great for Beginners

The spin putting technique is an excellent choice for a new disc golfer. The release needed to put spin on a disc is more intuitive.

Beginners are used to throwing a disc and using spin to help throw the shot. Spin putting is no different.

The motion used when spin putting is a throwing motion which is different from the pitch motion of the push putt. Putting in this way can be easier to aim because the putt basically flies in a straight line.

All these reason make the spin putt a great option for beginners to both learn and find success  

2. Less affected by the Wind

No one likes putting in the wind. Having your disc carried off target and float past the basket is no fun.

Adding more strokes to your final score is a bummer. That’s why learning the spin putt is so great.

The disc is less likely to be affected by windy conditions. The disc’s spin keeps the disc flying straighter and prevents the wind from getting under the disc and pushing it off course.

So even if you stick with your push putting style, learning the spin putt for those windy days is a viable option. If you play a lot in the Midwest, learning to push with spin is a must.  

For more tips on play in the wind, check out this article. 

3. Consistent at varying distances

One of the keys to disc golf success is being able to play consistently day in and day out. If you can throw the disc and know where it’s going to go every time you’ll play better.

Putting is the exact same way. Being able to keep your putting routine the same each putt is going to make it easier to knock down your putts overtime.

The spin putt will help you do that. Each putt, no matter the distance is going to be the same release point and the same angle. Not having to make the call each time you step up to a putt is going to lead to lower scores.   

4. Great for low ceilings

If you’ve ever had your putt blocked by a low hanging branch, you know it can be frustrating.

For the push putting style, in order to make a disc fly to the basket, the disc must be released nose up and fly in an arch toward the basket.

There is nothing wrong with push putting but if you have a low hanging ceiling or an obstacle it can be tricky to sink your putts. This is where the spin putt will shine.

Spin putting doesn’t require an arch. The disc will fly straight toward the basket, flying under any low ceilings.  

5. Works well outside the circle

Another drawback to the push putting style is it can be different to get the disc to reach the basket. You need to release the disc high and use your lower body to power the disc forward for extra distance.

Using a putter with extra glide can help it get there. This isn’t a problem when spin putting.

Releasing the disc on the same line with the same angle will get you to the basket each time if your aim is on point. Knocking down long putts outside of the circle shouldn’t be a problem with this approach to putting.   

Final Thoughts

If you’re new to disc golf, I hope you’ll consider the spin putt for your main putting style.

For beginners, it’s easy to pick up and learn. It works well in the wind and at long distances. Spin putting is a consistent motion from anywhere in or outside the circle.

nd you don’t have to be intimidated by a low ceiling. All these reasons make it an excellent choice. So, I hope you’ll choose to spin your way to putting success.  

Flickr Image Creative Commons – Virginia State Parks

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6 Midrange Tips To Help Improve Your Disc Golf Game

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disc golf midrange tips

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1. Use Them Off The Tee

If you aren’t already using your midrange discs for driving, you really should be. A lot of players have it in their head that they must use a driver off the tee but if you can get the distance with a slower speed disc, you should at least consider it.

Remember what I said early, these discs are the perfect combination of speed and precision? That means they are perfect for the tee box. Using these discs for distance shots means your placement of the throw will be more accurate than if you were using a fairway driver or distance driver.

Two situations mid-range discs are ideal for are shorter holes and holes that have a lot of trouble. Using a disc that can fly the distance and do it more accurately is a no-brainer.  The reason I recommend midranges for holes that have a lot of out bounds or hazards if for their accuracy. Because even if you are losing some distance, you’ll gain those strokes back by not going out of hands or skipping into a hazard.

So the next time you are considering which disc to use for your drive, consider your mid-range discs.

2. Use Them In The Woods

If you play a lot of wooded courses you may already know the power of these discs for dodging trees. When throwing a course or a hole that has a lot of trees, you’ll need to be more conscious of your discs flight path because there are more obstacles your disc can hit on it’s a way to the basket.

Midrange discs are perfect for the woods because of the extra control they give you. In the woods, you are going to want to slow down and focus on a deliberate, controlled throw. Midrange discs allow you to throw slow controlled shots but still get the distance you want to finish the hole.

Another great thing you can use for a midrange disc for in the woods is to hit gaps and throw straight lines. Depending on your arm speed, grabbing an understand midrange and throwing it softly or selecting a stable midrange and throwing it hard will give you the straight shot you need.

The next time you find yourself on a hole with a lot of trees you are going to want to reach for a midrange.

3. Use Them For Upshots

Another great use for your midrange discs is throwing upshots. When I’ve thrown my drive and have landed within approaching range of the basket, the first disc I’m considering is a midrange disc, especially if I have some distance to cover.

Midrange discs are great at this range because of how easy they are to control and how accurate they can be. If you have thrown a great drive on a par 4 hole and gotten some serious distance, it doesn’t matter much if your next shot doesn’t land near or in the basket.

No one wants to see their upshot come up way short or blow past the basket. We’d all rather have an easy, close putt when compare to a long tester putt. Using an accurate midrange will ensure you are closer to the basket more often.

While putters are super accurate for upshots, you should still consider reaching for a trusty midrange disc. You won’t have to put as much heat on the disc from longer distances and if you are like me, I tend to be less accurate when I’m trying to ensure the disc flies far enough.

Pull out a midrange on your next upshot. I promise you, you won’t be disappointed if you do.    

4. Great For Beginners

I think everyone’s first disc should be a midrange. A lot of players may have a problem with that. They might think a putter is a better disc for a newer player.

But hear me out, a good midrange disc can be the perfect disc for most situations. We’ve already covered how great they can be off the tee and for upshots. They work well in the fairway and they are super controllable. All the things a beginner needs.

When using a midrange for distance shots you are going to need to focus on your form and really concentrate. Starting out, you want to get a great understable midrange disc and focus on throwing it flat. Here are some great choices for understable midrange discs.

As you improve, you can get good stable midrange discs or if you are a real power player, an overstable midrange will be perfect for your bag.  But don’t toss those understable ones out. They will still be useful for turnover shots and hyzer flips.

If you are a beginner to disc golf or know a new player, get them a midrange disc.

5. You Can Flick Them

That’s right, folks, midrange discs aren’t just for your backhand. They work great for your sidearm too. A lot of people think you can just throw drivers when attempting a forehand throw but if you aren’t using your more accurate midrange discs you might be gaining extra strokes.

If you want some recommendations on the best midrange discs to flick check out this article here. In short, you are looking for two things in your midrange discs to make them easier to throw forehand. One is a lower profile. This will allow you to get a better grip and assist with having a good clear release.

Another thing you’ll want in your midrange discs is an overstable flight. When throwing a disc with the forehand technique, you usually put less spin on the disc than when throwing backhand. To counteract this lack of spin, you’ll want to reach for an beefy midrange disc.

The next time you need to flick a disc make it a midrange. You’ll get a more consistent and accurate flight which leads to a  lower score.

6. Dedicate Practice To Them

The last tip I have for you is practice. Like all other aspects of your disc golf game, you are going to need to dedicate time and practice to improve.

Along with practicing your driving and putting, it’s a good idea to include practice sessions dedicated to throwing your midrange discs. You’ll want to grab all the midrange disc you own, take them to a field and throw them over and over.

To keep it fresh and challenging, I’d recommend you work on both shot shape and placement. You’ll also want to throw each disc on a hyzer, flat and anhyzer using both the backhand forehand technique.

This will allow you to get to know these discs and you’ll be that much more comfortable using them the next time you need them.

For more ideas on practicing your midrange game, I recommend you check out this video.
Jesús does a great job of explaining multiple ways to tackle midrange practice.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Csn-48fI2Kc&t=48s

Flicker Image Creative Commons – MarkScottAustinTX

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8 Disc Golf Winter Tips

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As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, you might be thinking it’s time to give up disc golf for a few months and head indoors for warm activities.

Sure you could do that but you risk losing all the progress you’ve made during the warmer months. Spending all the time inside in front of the tv and you’ll lose your competitive edge for sure.

And when the sun starts to shine and all the ice melts away, you’ll have to re-learn your forehand and putting stroke. No one wants that.

So before you think you need to give up the sport you love for a few months, consider my 8 disc golf tips. Hopefully, following these tips will help you stay warm and improve your game while playing in less than ideal conditions.

Plus, if you haven’t tried it yet. Playing disc golf in the snow can be a lot of fun.

1. Use Winter Plastic

The cold weather is going to change how your discs feel in your hand. You’ll notice that as the temperature drops your disc will become less flexible and less grippy.

If you play a lot in winter weather, you may also notice that your discs have a higher probability of cracking or breaking. Especially if you are hitting trees, concrete or metal baskets.

In order to counteract the effects colder weather has on the plastic you use, I recommend using grippy and flexible plastic. A great option for this would be GStar plastic made by Innova. It’s both grippy and flexible.

For more options for winter weather plastic check out this article.

If you hesitant about replacing all the discs in your bag with a premium plastic version of the disc, you might buy a lower grade plastic like Innova’s DX. The plastic does have adequate grip and flexibility to get you through the winter weather but if a disc does break it’s much cheaper to replace.  

2. Adapt to Disc Flight Changes

If you’ve ever played disc golf in the cold, you might have noticed that your discs don’t fly the same. Most players notice two main changes to their disc’s flight.

One is stability. When playing in the cold, discs tend to act more overstable.

Another difference is they don’t fly as far. When playing during the winter time, it’s not uncommon to see less distance on your drives.

You could make changes to your bag and add more understable discs that have extra glide to counteract the effects of winter.

Check out some of our articles on great understable discs. Here is the one about drivers and this is the one for midrange discs. 

Another option would be to adapt to these changes. Before you make a decision on the disc or shot understand that the disc will likely not fly as far and act more overstable. Either method should work.   

3. Dress for Winter Success

As the seasons change and the temperatures drop, you’re going to be playing in less than ideal conditions. You are usually going to experience colder and wetter playing conditions.

You’ll want to be prepared for this by wearing warm clothes that are waterproof. I recommend wearing multiple layers, as you can always shed layers as you warm up and add layers if you get colder.

Gloves are a must. You’ll need to keep your hands warm during play. Pay close attention to your shoes and socks.

Playing in sogging socks and waterfilled shoes is no fun on any day but add in the colder temperatures and you could end up with frostbite. Make sure you’re playing in waterproof shoes and socks or at the very least bring extras to switch into.

They are also many waterproof sprays you could add to your shoes for added protection.

Here is a great option for boots. Check it out on Amazon.  

4. Join a Putting League

If you don’t want to face the cold weather, why not just play indoors? That’s what an indoor putting league can allow you to do.

A group of disc golfers get together during the colder months and compete. The great thing about playing in one of these leagues is it allows you to keep practicing and improving on the most important part of your game, putting.

If you aren’t sure if there is a winter putting league in your area its best to start with the local disc golf club. If you ask around and find out there isn’t locally, you could start your own.

Here’s a link to guide on starting your own.

Also, dynamic discs has a winter marksman league program that will help with the equipment. Check that out here.    

5. Change your Expectations

Just like you aren’t going to play your best in the wind, you aren’t going to play your best in the cold. As the temperature drops, there are too many variables that change.

We’ve already discussed the effects that winter can have on your discs in both how they feel and fly. But other things change too.

With more layers on, you are less flexible and your bulky clothing can affect your throwing form. Your footing usually isn’t as good.

Ice and water can make the tee pads slippery. It’s more difficult to keep balance in the snow.

All these things are going to be difficult to overcome and play at your very best but that’s okay. Play for fun and practice.

When the warmer months come around and tournament play begins you’ll be sharper than the competitors that stopped playing when it got cold.    

6. Give special attention to your hands

Your hands are so important in disc golf. They are the only interface you have with the disc.

You use your hands to transfer the momentum and power you generate during your dive or throw to the disc. If your hands aren’t in the right place or your grip is off this can have a detrimental effect on your ability to throw well.

Because you need your hands for throwing the disc, especially your dominant hand, they are also exposed to the winter weather. I recommend keeping your non-dominant hand in some gloves as I mentioned before.

For the hand you use to throw the disc, keeping it warm in your pocket works well. I also like using hothands.

You can keep one of these in your pocket and basically warm up your hand instantly. Check out them out on Amazon.   

7. Don’t lose your discs

When playing in winter weather it can be easy to lose a disc. Lighter discs, like white and yellow, can be hard to find, especially in the snow.

For this, I recommend using discs that stand out against the white of snow. Don’t throw your favorite white disc in the snow. You are just asking to lose it or at the very least spend a few hours searching for it.

If there is a large amount of snow and your disc can get buried in the snow, the color of the disc isn’t really going to matter.

In this situation, I recommend using the ribbon technique. If you attach a ribbon to your disc, you’ll be able to see it and easily retrieve it.

Check out this video for more information on how to do this.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yq7onUGx5So

8. Cross Train instead

If you are still reluctant to play disc golf in the cold and snow, you could use the winter season to focus on something else. I suggest you use the extra time to cross train.

What do I mean by cross train? Disc golf can be a physically demanding sport where you use the same movements over and over again.

This can cause muscle imbalances and injury from repeated movements. So if you aren’t going to play disc golf during the winter, why not try another sport.

You could join a basketball league or take up racquetball. Both involve different physical movements than disc golf and have a cardiovascular competent.

If starting a new sport doesn’t seem like something you are in to, you could use the extra time in the gym. You can build up your muscles and help fix any muscle imbalances by hitting the weights.

And while you are spending time on the cardio machines, you can listen to your favorite disc golf podcast and still keep up to date on the sport you love!     

Flickr Image Creative Commons – Larry Jennings

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Playing Disc Golf In The Wind

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Playing disc golf in the wind sounds more like torture than fun to most disc golfers.

I’m not going to lie there have been a few times I’ve considered leaving early or driving to a more wooded course when the wind started to pick up.

No one likes having their putter pushed off course by the wind and missing the chains by a couple feet.

Hopefully, after reading this article you’ll have a better understanding of how the wind can affect a disc’s flight and ways to use the wind to your advantage.

We’ll talk about how headwinds, tailwinds, and crosswinds affect your discs differently, what you can do to counteract the effects and how to use the wind to your advantage.   

Headwinds

When facing a headwind you’ll want to grab an overstable disc with more fade.

A headwind will cause the disc to act less stable and tends to push the disc up. Using an overstable disc with more fade will help counteract the discs tendency to turn.

You’ll want to release the disc lower than normal to go against the upward push on the disc.

It’s also very important to keep the nose down, if the disc is released with even a slight nose up it will get caught in the wind and the disc will move up and back.

You’ll lose distance if you don’t keep the noise down.

Another tip for throwing in a headwind would be to use a faster disc. You’ll want a fast disc because relative to the wind, the disc is moving faster than normal without increasing your release speed.

This will ensure the disc flies as it should.

If you didn’t catch all that, in a headwind, you’ll want to throw a fast, overstable disc and release it low to the ground.

Check out this article for great overstable driver options.  

Tailwinds

When throwing a disc with the wind at your back, the disc will tend to act more overstable.

The wind will also cause a downward push on the disc, causing it to lose height faster than normal.

To counter these effects, throwing an over unstable disc is recommended. You’ll also need to release the disc higher.

A bonus for throwing in tailwinds is the disc will tend to carry farther. So if you throw your drive correctly and properly take advantage of a tailwind, you should see some added distance.

In a tailwind, you’ll want to throw a slower disc than normal. The disc is moving in the same direction as the disc so relative to the wind the disc is moving slower than normal.

Picking a slower disc will ensure the disc files as intended.

To sum it all up for a tailwind, you’ll want to use a slower, understable disc. You’ll want to release the disc higher than you would in calm conditions.

Check out this article for some great understable fairway driver options.

Crosswinds

Wind moving across the fairway will have a different effect on your disc depending on how you release the disc and whether you are right handed or left handed.

Making adjustments to your throw to counteract these effects are recommended.  You also might be able to change your shot to take advantage of the wind.

Left to Right Wind

For a right-handed player throwing backhanded in a left to right wind, if releasing the disc with hyzer the disc will tend to drop more than normal.

This makes sense because the flight plate is tilted in a way that catches the wind.

When throwing an anhzyer, the disc will be pushed up and move more to the right than expected.

If you are releasing the disc flat, you will notice the disc carrying to the right.

In a crosswind you have two options, you can play for accuracy or distance.

For accuracy, you’ll want to release the disc on a hyzer if the wind is moving left to right.

The disc will get pushed down and you’ll distance but it’s a more consistent shot.  

If you want distance, you’ll want to throw an anhyzer. This will allow the wind to pick up your disc and carry it.

Right to Left Wind

If the wind is moving the opposite way across the fairway, we can expect the opposite to happen.

When throwing a disc on a hyzer, the disc will tend to lift and move more toward the left.

If the disc is released with an anhyzer angle, it will get pushed down and toward the right.

A disc released flat will get pushed to the left since this is the way the wind is moving.

You have the two same choices in the right to left crosswind.

If you are going for accuracy, you want to release the disc on an anhyzer. You’ll see disc will get pushed down by the wind resulting in less distance but more accuracy.

If you’d like more distance, you’ll want to use a hyzer release. With this release, the wind will get under the disc, left if up and carry it forward.  

Putting in the Wind


Knowing how your putting style is affected by the wind can help you make a better decision when putting on those windy days.

In general, a push putter will be more affected by the wind than a spin putter.

While it may not be worth it to every push putter, learning how to spin putt may be a great alternative putting a style to pull out when the wind picks up.

If you are releasing your putters flat, the wind will have a similar effect on your putter as they do on your drivers.

In a headwind, the disc will tend to get pushed up. For a tailwind, the effect is the opposite and the putter will get pushed down.

When putting in a crosswind, the putter will get pushed the direction the wind is blowing.

Something else to think about is not everyone is going to release the disc flat.

For instance, when push putting the disc will have a slight nose up.

This could cause the putter to get pushed up higher when putting in a crosswind as well as to the left or right to take that into consideration when facing a windy putt.

Disc golf Wind Tips

Wind can blow in different directions

When considering a shot in the wind you need to realize that wind doesn’t just move in one direction.

Off the tee, wind could be moving one way but down the fairway, it could be moving another direction.

Keep this in mind when planning your shots on windy days.

Lower your expectations

You’ll need to come to the realization that you probably aren’t going to play your best in the wind.

There are too many factors to consider and unpredictable items that come into play to make all the right decisions.

Hopefully, this will allow you to relax and play better golf.

Practice in the wind

There is no substitute for practice and playing in the wind isn’t an exception.

To get better at playing in the wind you’ll need to expose yourself to it more often.

If you’ve been shying away from wind play consider it a learning opportunity instead.

Windy days are also a great time to get in some field work.

Change your Perspective

Think of playing in the wind like using nature to your advantage.

If you have it in your mind that wind is a disadvantage or an obstacle to overcome, it might be hurting your play.

While your shots are going to be less consistent on windy days, if you play the wind right you might see more distance.

Working with nature, instead of against, will lead to lower scores.  

Final Thoughts

I hope this article has helped you get a better understanding of how the wind will affect your disc golf play.

Hopefully the next time the wind picks up on your home course, you won’t run screaming to your car. Playing in the wind is something all disc golfers have to learn to deal with if they want to improve their game and get better.

With my tips, you should be able to make better decisions and see improvement when facing windy conditions.

Happy throwing in the wind!

Flickr Image Creative Commons – WxMom

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13 Things You Should Consider Putting In Your Disc Golf Bag

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Have you ever been out on the disc golf course and really needed something but didn’t have it? Maybe you had to ask someone you were playing with for it or maybe you had to run to your car to grab it. Depending on how much you really needed that thing, you may have had to drive home to get it.

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How To Throw A Disc Golf Disc Farther

No ratings yet. It seems that the number one question beginners have when they start playing disc golf is How To Throw A Disc Golf Disc Farther. I remember asking the same question when I started playing. I thought if I could just throw 50 or even 25 ft farther I could shave multiple strokes off each round.

At the time I thought the answer was a high-speed disc. I saw the top pros throwing Innova destroyers and I thought I needed to throw one too. I quickly found out this was not the case and that a 12 speed disc was too much disc for my slow arm.

My right handed backhand throws with the destroyer were quickly turning left and crashing into the ground. I tried to overcompensate by throwing the disc at an anhyzer angle but that didn’t seem to work. It wasn’t unit I went back to my slower discs and focused on throwing a good shot instead of a long shot that I started to have more fun and get better.

So if you are just getting into the sport my advice to you is to not focus on throwing farther but to instead focus on throwing a good clean accurate short. Once you get that down you can worry about learning how to crush a disc and get it to go super far. If that doesn’t sway you try these strategies instead of a high-speed disc.

How To Throw A Disc Golf Disc Farther

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Change Your Disc

Try An Understable Disc

Leave your overstable and stable discs in your bag. Actually, better yet, leave them at home. When you are starting out it can be tempting to throw the discs your friends are throwing or the pros are throwing but what happens when you throw these discs is they tend to hyzer out too soon and don’t fly as far as they should. Like I said before I was guilty of this too.

What you want is a disc with a negative turn rating. If you are unsure of what this is the turn rating is the third number in the flight rating system. It measures the tendency of the disc to move left, right or straight as it leaves your hand. For a new player, your arm speed will be slower which is great for throwing understable discs.

Try A Lighter Weight Disc

Similarly to making a change to the stability of the disc you are throwing, changing the weight of the disc can add some extra distance. This works because you are able to throw a disc with a lighter weight faster than a heavier disc and throwing the disc faster should equal more distance.

With making this change there are some things to consider. You may notice that at a lighter weight, the disc you are used to throwing may turn over more often. To combat this, you may want to change to a more stable disc. This should even out the changes made to the flight path of the disc to equal more distance on your throw.

Try A Disc With More Glide

When you are starting out in the disc golf game, glide is your friend. As a new player, you have underdeveloped disc golf skills. One of these skills is arm speed and naturally, you will have a lower arm speed as a new player. Glide will counteract this and allow your disc to stay longer in the air. If the disc stays in the air longer, it will tend to fly farther.

So, how do you know if a disc has more or less glide? Just like when we discussed throwing an understable disc, we are going to the flight rating system to tell us the amount of glide a disc has. In this case, the glide rating is the second number in the rating system and as the number increases the disc has more glide.

Change Your Shot

Try Throwing The Disc Sidearm

For some, the backhand throw can be difficult to master and produce a lot of distance. It’s not uncommon for newer players to pick up the play styles of more experienced players around them or what they are seeing the pros do and the dominant throwing style is the backhand. So if you are finding your backhand drive a bit awkward or not seeing the distances you would like you might try switching to a sidearm drive

A sidearm or forearm throw is a more natural throwing motion and is used in a lot in other athletic activities. So if you have a lot of experience in baseball or other throwing sports the sidearm throw might be easier to pick up than the backhand. An added bonus to throwing forehand is you don’t have to take your eyes off your target like you do when throwing backhand. Being able to look at your target during the throw does make it easier especially for new players.

Try Rolling The Disc

Using the roller as your primary driving approach might not work for most players but in some cases trying a roller instead of throwing the disc in the air can get you more distances. What situations would you want to use the roller instead of another shot? One situation that comes to mind is that there are trees in the way that you can roll under that would otherwise be obstructed by the branches.

Other situations to consider throwing a roller would be when you have the ideal conditions. Rollers do well on close-cut grass or hard packed dirt. If you see these conditions you may want to throw a roller instead of your normal drive. Things to watch out for that might stop your roller shot and prevent it from going farther than it should would be exposed roots, large rocks, uneven terrain, and bushes or other obstacles that are in the way.

Change Your Form

Power Grip

You may not have considered this but the way you grip your disc when throwing it can be quite important. If you think about it, your fingers that grip your disc are the only things on your body touching the disc. The way you grip your disc is how you transfer the power you are generating from your body to the disc.

When gripping the disc you want it to be snug in your hand. Think tight but not too tight. If your grip is too tight it can lead to a late release and some of the energy imparted to your disc will be lost. If you grip the disc too loose, it could lead to an early release.

Get Some Momentum

If you feel like you are getting your throwing form down perfectly but aren’t seeing the distance you want you may want to consider adding some forward momentum to your throwing routine. This works because adding a run-up or an x-step to your throw will increase the velocity the disc is released at which should equate to more distance.

There are some drawbacks to adding a run or an x-step. If you form isn’t perfect, you could be sacrificing some accuracy. You’ll have to way the tradeoffs of your disc going 10 to 15 feet further vs. possibly not hitting your line with as much accuracy.

Reach Back

When throwing a disc backhand, you can achieve more distance by reaching back further before your release. This works because the farther you are reaching back the more time you have to build up momentum before the disc is released, giving your drive more distance.

If you are considering adding a farther reach back to your drive, you’ll want to make sure you have your driving form down perfectly. When reaching back remember to lead with your elbow and pull throw in a straight line.

Follow Through

Completely following through can help save your body from the wear and tear of the disc golf throwing movement but it can also help increase your distance. If you aren’t following through all the way, you are likely not getting the full extension of the throwing motion and sacrificing distance.

Following through completely and making sure your body is rotating all the way through can also ensure that you aren’t stopping your throwing rotation before it’s time. If you aren’t following through you might be slowing your body down before you are releasing the disc which could mean you are leaving some distance on the table.

Practice

I know this tip is listed last but it could be the most important. Your driving technique will greatly benefit from specific practice. This means going to a field or another open area and practicing your drive over and over. I promise you, you will see better results.

If you are one of those players that are hoping that playing more rounds of disc golf will make you better, try specifically focusing on pieces of your game and practicing them. This doesn’t just mean driving but putting and approaching. Consider taking some time to figure out your disc golf goals and schedule time during your week to practice. You’ll get better.

Image Credit Flickr Creative Commons – Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington

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