If you’re here, it’s probably because you’ve never played or heard of disc golf. First, welcome to the sport! It’s a lot of fun with a mix of challenging, but also rewarding. But be careful, because it can be easy to get hooked!
I’m writing this article so you can go grab a disc, watch a couple videos, and start hitting trees (it’s a funny joke you’ll get later on, I promise). This advice is very basic, and is only meant to have a fun casual round.
The Basics
The goal
Disc golf is very similar to Ball Golf. You have different discs (the ball golf equivalent of clubs), and you’re trying to throw your disc into the basket (ball golf equivalent to a hole) in the fewest number of stokes (or throws). There are par’s for every hole that vary on a number of things.
The goal is to just throw the disc from the tee pad into the basket. Easy.
Throws
There are two types of throws*; your drive and your putting throw. Your drive is meant for power, whereas your putt is meant for accuracy. I’m going to assume you’re throwing right handed. If you’re left, flip everything I’m about to say.
Good, far throws come from good form, not from muscle.
Drives: The below image is a good basic gif showing the very basics of a drive. Gripping the disc in your right hand, reach back, then pull the disc through your chest. You should feel the disc ‘rip’ or ‘slip’ out of your hand. Make sure the disc is flat as you’re pulling the disc through your body. Every time you throw, it’s probably going to curve to the left. That’s totally normal and expected, just plan accordingly.
Putting: Square up to the basket. With your right foot pointing at the basket, your left foot back half a step, and the disc in your right hand, bring the disc down to your left hip near your belt. When you’re ready to throw, quickly move your arm and wrist towards the basket, like you’re shaking hands with it, and let go.
There’s a million ways to putt, this is just one, so try some adjustments and see what’s most comfortable. Putting is hard. Don’t expect to make much outside of 5-10 feet starting out.
Scoring
Scoring is an important thing to learn. If you can’t semi consistently make a 25 foot putt, then try to get as close as you can so your next shot is easy. Once you can throw 150-200 feet and know how to score, you’ll be set for bigger courses.
UDisc
UDisc (link here) is the app players use to track their stats and find new courses. It’s highly recommended. I’ve been playing and track every round and seeing the progression is amazing. Like anything, it’s only worth it if you put in the effort to keep score. Below is my progression after keeping score for every round I’ve played at Glenwood.
Wrap Up
Disc golf is a lot of fun. I hope you get the chance to play soon, and don’t get discouraged by short throws, throwing into trees, or missed putts. It’s a cheap hobby that you can play in pretty much any city, and is a great outlet. If you have any questions, always feel free to reach out.
See you on the course,
- David