If you’ve moved past the beginner stage of disc golf and you’re looking to sharpen your skills, you’re in the right place. These tips are designed to help intermediate players fine-tune their game and build confidence on the course.
At this point, you’re likely throwing with more control, making more putts, and developing a solid routine. Now it’s time to tighten things up. Here are five practical tips I’ve found helpful for players looking to take the next step.
1. Focus on a Nose-Down Release
This one’s subtle, but it makes a big difference. A nose-down release means the front edge of your disc is angled slightly downward relative to the angle of flight. This helps your disc glide more efficiently, especially on long drives.
Throwing with the nose up—often unintentionally—creates extra drag, causing the disc to stall out and fade early. Mastering a clean, nose-down release will add both distance and consistency to your drives.
It takes practice, and often small tweaks to grip, wrist angle, and release point. Pay attention to how your disc comes out of your hand, especially on flat shots.
2. Master the X-Step for Smoother Drives
Once you’ve got the basics down, footwork becomes a major key to power and consistency. The X-step is a tried-and-true technique for generating momentum during your drive without sacrificing balance.
For right-handed players, the typical X-step looks like this:
- Start by stepping forward with your right foot.
- Bring your left foot behind and across (forming an “X”).
- Then plant your right foot again as you move into the final reach-back and throw.
It’s all about syncing your lower body with your upper body so you can load up properly for the throw. Practicing the X-step slowly and building muscle memory is a great way to develop smooth, powerful drives over time.
3. Improve Your Scramble Game
Scrambling is your ability to recover after a poor shot or tough lie—and it’s one of the biggest skill separators at this level. Great scramblers keep their scores low even when things don’t go perfectly off the tee.
Let’s say your drive lands behind a tree or deep in the rough. Can you shape a forehand roller? Can you pitch out cleanly to give yourself a look at saving par?
Here are a few shots worth developing:
- Standstill forehand – perfect for tight gaps or limited space.
- Overhand shots like tomahawks or thumbers – helpful for getting over obstacles.
- Forehand rollers – for navigating around dense rough or brush.
Practicing these shots and visualizing recovery lines will make you more confident and resourceful when you’re in trouble.
4. Try a Tournament
Playing in your first tournament can be nerve-wracking—but it’s one of the best ways to push yourself as a disc golfer.
Even a local C-tier or flex-start event can teach you a lot: how to handle pressure, follow PDGA rules, pace a full round, and play with unfamiliar cardmates. It’ll also show you where your game really stands.
Before the event, you’ll probably find yourself practicing more often, tightening up your form, and learning the rules more thoroughly. All of that helps your growth—regardless of how you finish.
To find an upcoming event near you, visit the PDGA Tournament Schedule.
5. Upgrade Your Discs
As your arm speed improves, your discs should evolve with it. Many intermediate players stick with the same beginner-friendly molds for too long—especially very understable drivers or midranges that start turning too much once you throw harder.
That doesn’t mean you should ditch all your understable discs—they still serve a purpose for hyzer flips, rollers, and tailwinds. But it’s worth adding more stable and overstable discs to your lineup, especially for:
- Windy conditions
- Skip shots
- Flex lines
- Reliable fade finishes
Look for discs that match your increased power without burning over. A few great options for intermediate players include:
- Innova TeeBird – controllable fairway with dependable fade
- Discraft Zone – excellent for forehand approaches
- Axiom Hex – straight-flying midrange that holds angle
Explore more in our full disc guide for intermediate players.
Final Thoughts
Reaching the intermediate level is an exciting stage in your disc golf journey. Now it’s about refining the little things—technique, decision-making, and strategy. Keep practicing, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself.
Whether you’re dialing in footwork, scrambling for par, or prepping for your first tournament, these small changes can make a big impact over time.
And if you’re looking to upgrade your gear, be sure to check out our full selection of discs to match your game as it continues to grow.