Find Out What Is A Hyzer In Disc Golf, Check This Out!
Disc golf is a sport that requires players to navigate through a variety of obstacles such as trees, bushes, and other barriers on the course. One of the most commonly used techniques in disc golf to navigate around these obstacles is the hyzer shot. But what is a hyzer in disc golf, and what are the advantages of using this technique on the course?
What Is A Hyzer Shot?
A hyzer shot involves releasing the edge of the disc downwards during the throw, whether it’s a backhand or forehand throw. It’s an important skill to master in disc golf as it can help you navigate the course more efficiently. With a hyzer shot, you can easily clear obstacles like trees and bushes or choose the right disc to save strokes during the game. Knowing how to throw a hyzer shot can greatly improve your game and help you become a more versatile player.
Backhand Hyzer
The backhand hyzer shot is one of the most common and versatile shots in disc golf. To execute a backhand hyzer shot, the player holds the disc with their dominant hand and steps up to the tee or lie. As they begin their throw, they tilt the disc to the left (for a right-handed thrower) and throw the disc on an angle towards the right side of the fairway.
One of the key advantages of the backhand hyzer shot is its ability to navigate around obstacles on the course. By throwing the disc at an angle, players can make the disc curve around trees, bushes, and other barriers, rather than having to throw directly over them. This can be particularly useful on courses with tight fairways or heavily wooded areas.
To execute a backhand hyzer shot effectively, it’s important to focus on your grip, stance, and throwing motion. Start by holding the disc with your fingers on the inside rim and your thumb on the top. As you step up to the tee or lie, plant your lead foot and shift your weight onto your back foot. As you begin your throw, bring the disc back in a smooth, controlled motion and release it with a flick of your wrist, keeping your arm and wrist relaxed and fluid.
Forehand Hyzer
The forehand hyzer shot, also known as the sidearm or flick shot, is another popular and effective type of hyzer shot in disc golf. To execute a forehand hyzer shot, the player holds the disc with their non-dominant hand and steps up to the tee or lie. As they begin their throw, they tilt the disc to the right (for a right-handed thrower) and throw the disc on an angle towards the left side of the fairway.
One of the advantages of the forehand hyzer shot is its ability to provide more distance and control than the backhand hyzer shot in certain situations. This can be particularly useful on courses with longer holes or open fairways where there are fewer obstacles to navigate around.
To execute a forehand hyzer shot effectively, it’s important to focus on your grip, stance, and throwing motion. Start by holding the disc with your non-dominant hand and placing your thumb on the top of the disc and your fingers on the underside. As you step up to the tee or lie, plant your lead foot and shift your weight onto your back foot. As you begin your throw, bring the disc back in a smooth, controlled motion and release it with a snap of your wrist, keeping your arm and wrist firm and stable.
Advantages Of Hyzer Shots
Navigation Around Obstacles
One of the key advantages of the hyzer shot is its ability to navigate around obstacles on the course. By throwing the disc at an angle, players can make the disc curve around trees, bushes, and other barriers, rather than having to throw directly over them. This can be particularly useful on courses with tight fairways or heavily wooded areas. In fact, some of the best players in the world use hyzer shots to navigate around obstacles and make their way to the basket.
Control Of Flight Path
Another advantage of the hyzer shot is its ability to control the flight path of the disc. By adjusting the angle and speed of the throw, players can make the disc curve more or less, depending on the distance to the target and the shape of the course. This can allow players to land the disc closer to the target, or to position it for a better approach shot. Additionally, hyzer shots can be used to create a more predictable flight path, especially in windy conditions. By throwing the disc on a hyzer angle, players can reduce the impact of crosswinds and ensure that their disc follows a more stable path.
Distance & Accuracy
The hyzer shot can also be used to achieve greater distance and accuracy. By throwing the disc on a hyzer angle, players can create more lift and reduce the amount of drag on the disc. This allows the disc to stay in the air for longer and travel further than it would on a straight shot. Additionally, the hyzer shot can be used to make up for a lack of power. By throwing the disc at an angle, players can get the disc to fly further with less effort, allowing them to achieve greater distance and accuracy on their shots.
Versatility
One of the greatest advantages of the hyzer shot is its versatility. This shot can be used in a variety of situations, including on drives, approaches, and putts. It can also be used with a variety of different discs, including drivers, mid-ranges, and putters. This makes the hyzer shot an essential skill for any player looking to improve their game. With practice, players can learn to adjust the angle and speed of their throws to suit any situation on the course.
Mental Challenge
Finally, the hyzer shot can be a great mental challenge for players. This shot requires players to think creatively about their approach to the basket and to be patient with their throws. It also requires players to be confident in their ability to execute the shot, even in difficult conditions. For players who enjoy a mental challenge, the hyzer shot can be a great way to test their skills and improve their game.
Executing A Hyzer Shot
To execute a hyzer shot, players must first select a disc that is suitable for the technique. An understable disc with a negative turn rating, such as -2 or -3, is ideal for a hyzer shot. The disc should also have minimal fade on the backend, no more than a 2 fade rating.
Once the disc is selected, players must adjust their throwing technique to execute the hyzer shot correctly. The key is to release the disc at the right angle with the outer edge tilted downward. The angle of the throw and the amount of spin on the disc will determine the degree of curve and flight path of the disc.
It is important to note that mastering the hyzer shot takes practice and patience. It can take time to perfect the release angle and spin necessary to execute the shot consistently.
In conclusion, the hyzer shot is a valuable throwing technique in disc golf that can help players navigate obstacles, control the flight path of the disc, and compensate for weather conditions. By selecting the right disc and adjusting their throwing technique, players can perfect their hyzer shot and take their disc golf game to the next level. With practice and patience, the hyzer shot can become a valuable tool in a player’s throwing arsenal.
