The 10 meter rule and other key guidelines
Within 10 meters of the basket, PDGA rules classify throws as putts. Players must maintain balance to avoid a stance violation and penalty stroke. To putt correctly according to the PDGA rulebook, you must be familiar with the specific rules that govern putting.
The lie
Your lie in disc golf is determined by leaving the disc where it landed or by placing a mini marker directly in front of the disc at its edge. The back of the disc or mini marker disc becomes your lie. This area measures 20 cm by 30 cm, similar to the size of a sheet of paper. When throwing or putting, your planted foot must remain within this area behind the marker or disc.
The putting stance
PDGA rules require that one foot on the lie does not touch the ground in front of it during the throw and release. Your stance must remain within the designated area behind the lie. There are three primary putting stances used in disc golf.
Staggered stance
The staggered stance is one of the most common techniques. With one foot slightly ahead of the other, players can use a natural rocking motion to generate power from their legs. This stance provides stability and control, making it a reliable option for consistent putting.
Straddle putt
The straddle putt is a versatile technique that allows players to putt straight toward the basket while navigating obstacles. By positioning the disc between the legs and bending the knees, players can maintain balance and precision. Only one foot must remain behind the marker, giving added flexibility in tight or obstructed situations.
Turbo putt
The turbo putt is an overhand technique often used when obstacles prevent traditional stances. It allows players to loft the disc over barriers or into elevated baskets. Some disc golfers adopt the turbo putt as their primary style due to its effectiveness in challenging terrain.
The 10 meter circle
The 10 meter circle, often called the circle, defines the putting area around the basket. When putting inside this circle, you must demonstrate balance and control before moving past your lie. After releasing the disc, you cannot step beyond the rear edge of the marker until balance is shown. Beyond 10 meters, players may step past their lie as long as one supporting point remains behind the marker during release.
Putting outside the 10 meter circle
Outside the circle, players can use techniques that maximize power without the same balance restrictions. Three common styles are step putt, jump putt, and modified step putt.
Step putt
In a step putt, one foot must remain behind the marker, and the disc must be released before the other foot lands. Failure to do so results in a penalty stroke.
Jump putt
The jump putt begins with a legal stance, and the disc must be released before both feet leave the ground. After release, players land ahead of their lie, making this technique useful for longer putts.
Modified step putt
The modified step putt requires the supporting foot to stay behind the marker while the disc is released before the other foot lands. This variation blends control with added momentum.
Conclusion
Learning disc golf putting rules is essential for every player. By understanding the PDGA guidelines for lies, stances, and putting techniques, you can avoid penalties. Whether you are inside the 10 meter circle or putting from beyond it, knowing the rules ensures fair play and better performance. Now that you understand the rules of disc golf putting, consider practicing regularly to refine your skills and gain confidence on the green.
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