What is a Flex Shot?
A flex shot, which is short for “flexible shot”, is when you intentionally release an overstable disc on an anhyzer angle. The disc starts turning right (for right-hand backhand throws), but thanks to its stability, it eventually flexes out and fades back left.
This creates a long, S-shaped flight path. Players use it to:
- Maximize distance when there’s room to let the disc work.
- Navigate obstacles like trees that block a straight line.
- Handle headwinds, since overstability resists turning too much.
Step 1: Choose the Right Disc
The flex shot relies heavily on disc stability.
- Overstable Drivers like an Emperor, Destroyer, Force, or PD2 are good choices for flex shot discs. They resist turn and guarantee a strong fade at the end.
- Fairway Drivers are great for controlled flex shots in tighter fairways.
- Avoid understable discs, since they’ll turn right and stay right, never flexing back.
Tip: The faster the disc, the more room you’ll need for the flex to work. If you’re throwing on a wooded course, a slower overstable fairway might be safer.
Step 2: Grip and Stance
You’ll use the same backhand grip you’d use for a normal drive. If distance is the goal, you’ll want a power grip for maximum spin and distance. Keep your wrist firm but relaxed.
For stance, you can stick with either a standstill throw (for shorter flex lines) or an X-step run-up (for maximum distance). The mechanics are the same, but you’ll need to exaggerate your release angle compared to a standard flat or hyzer throw.
Step 3: The Release Angle
The key to the flex shot is releasing the disc on an anhyzer angle.
- Tilt the outside edge of the disc up slightly (for RHBH, right edge higher).
- The more angle you put on it, the longer the disc will drift right before fading back.
- Too much angle, though, and even your overstable disc might cut roll into the ground.
A good rule of thumb is to practice with 20–30 degrees of anhyzer to see how your disc responds. You can adjust your release angle by standing more upright when you release. You can even lean back a little to get a steeper angle.
Step 4: Power and Spin
Unlike a touch shot, the flex shot demands commitment. You’ll need to throw with solid power and clean spin to get the disc to glide before fading. If your power is strong enough to get some turn to the right, it might stall out or begin to fade almost immediately.
Think smooth acceleration rather than muscling it. Your hips, legs, and shoulders should all fire in sync, just like your backhand drive.
Step 5: Let it Work
This is where many players mess up: they try to force the flex shot to fly like a straight drive. Don’t. A flex shot needs time and space to work its S-curve magic.
- Give it height: A low flex shot won’t have room to finish. Aim higher than you normally would.
- Trust the fade: If you’ve picked the right overstable disc, it will fight back at the end.
If you choose the right disc and release it properly, you can then step back and watch the disc do its job.
Common Mistakes (and Fixes)
- Disc doesn’t fade back – You probably used too flippy of a disc. Switch to something more overstable.
- Disc burns over and turns into a roller – Too much anhyzer angle or not enough height. Try flattening the release slightly.
- Disc stalls and drops early – Likely nose-up release. Keep the nose of the disc down to maintain glide.
- Inconsistent release angles – Practice your reach back and pull-through on the same plane. Rounding makes flex shots unpredictable.
Situations Where Flex Shots Shine
- Open field distance: When you need max distance and have space to let the disc work.
- Headwinds: Overstable discs fight wind better and a flex line can push forward instead of stalling.
- Obstacle navigation: Need to get around a tree but still finish left? The flex shot is your friend.
- Shot variety: Sometimes a hyzer or straight line won’t cut it. The flex adds versatility to your game.
Drills to Practice the Flex Shot
- Field Flex Practice: Take five overstable drivers and throw them all on different anhyzer angles. Watch how each one flexes back. This teaches you how angle affects flight.
- One-Disc Challenge: Use just one overstable disc during a round and throw flex lines whenever possible. It builds confidence in controlling angle and power.
- Height Control Drill: Practice flex shots aiming both high and low. You’ll quickly see how height influences the S-curve.
Final Thoughts
The flex shot is a valuable tool to have in disc golf. It’s a practical, versatile shot that gives you another option when the straight line isn’t available.
Remember:
- Pick the right overstable disc.
- Commit to the anhyzer release.
- Give the disc height and room to work.
- Trust the fade to bring it back.
With some practice in the field and on the course, you’ll find yourself reaching for the flex shot more often. It adds both distance and creativity to your game. And who doesn’t love watching their disc carve that perfect S-curve through the sky?
