Almost everyone who plays disc golf has one common dream: throwing the disc farther. Let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite like watching your disc soar majestically into the distance… and hopefully land somewhere you can still find it. But the burning question remains: how do you throw a disc golf disc farther? What techniques and mechanics must a player master to achieve those jaw-dropping drives that make everyone on the course whisper, “Whoa”?
In this article, we’re diving into all those questions (and more!) to help you maximize your throwing distance on the course. Our mission? To teach you the right techniques so you can unleash your inner disc-throwing beast and send that plastic soaring to new heights—and lengths.
How to Throw REALLY Far
If you want to reach max distance, there are a lot of factors to consider. Be prepared to tweak your game and maybe even unlearn a few bad habits (yes, we all have them). But don’t worry—this is your chance to level up!
Disc Selection is Important
Let’s bust a myth right away: just because a disc is labeled “high-speed” doesn’t mean it’ll go the farthest for you. If your arm speed doesn’t match the disc’s speed rating, it could fade out early, leaving your throw feeling like a bad first date—short and disappointing.
Instead, experiment with discs that have lower speed ratings, less fade, and possibly even lighter weights. Think of it like Goldilocks finding the perfect porridge—some trial and error is required, but once you find the right disc, you’ll never look back (except to see how far you threw it).
Lastly, don’t forget that cheap discs fly further! Well sort of. One thing for sure is that having access to inexpensive disc golf discs is one of the best ways to find the farthest flying disc for you. And there is no better place on the internet to buy low cost discs than here at Discount Disc Golf.
Mastering the Full Flight Path
To achieve maximum distance in disc golf, you’ll need to throw a driver and aim for a full S-curve flight path. This means your disc won’t fly in a straight line like a laser beam (sorry, physics fans). Instead, a proper flight will curve right, then fade left, covering more ground and maximizing its distance potential. A disc that flies completely straight might look cool but lacks the oomph to go the distance.
The Science of a Full Flight
For a right-handed backhand throw, the magic happens when the disc turns to the right as it reaches its highest speed right after release. Then, as the disc slows down and the spin decreases, it fades back to the left toward the end of its flight. This smooth S-shaped flight path is where the real distance comes from.
But how do you achieve this majestic full-flight path? The answer lies in understanding the disc’s stability and how you release it. Let’s break down the techniques:
Hyzer Flip
The hyzer flip is the go-to move for achieving full flight with an understable driver. Here’s how it works:
- Release the disc at a hyzer angle (tilted slightly downward on the outside edge).
- Watch as it flips to flat, then turns to an anhyzer angle (curving right).
- As the speed decreases, it naturally fades back to the left.
When done right, it’s like a magic trick: hyzer to flat to fade. However, if the disc is too understable or your release angle is off, it might just turn and burn, crashing before it has a chance to fade back. Timing and disc selection are key to pulling off this shot.
Anhyzer Release
If you’re working with an overstable disc, the anhyzer release can give you that coveted full flight. Here’s how:
- Throw the disc at an anhyzer angle (tilted slightly upward on the outside edge).
- The initial release sends the disc curving right.
- As the disc’s natural overstability kicks in, it fades back left at the end.
This technique is great for powering through windy conditions or when you need extra reliability. Just don’t overdo the angle, or your disc might hold the anhyzer line and refuse to come back—like a friend who gets lost at a party.
Flat Release
The flat release is probably the most consistent way to achieve full flight, but you need the perfect disc for your arm speed.
- Release the disc on a flat plane.
- A disc with the right turn rating will naturally drift right at high speeds.
- As it slows down, the fade kicks in, bringing it back to the left.
Flat releases are all about matching your disc to your power level. Too fast or overstable a disc, and it’ll fade out early. Too understable, and it’ll just turn over. When you get it right, though, the results are pure poetry in motion.
Experiment to Find Your Sweet Spot
There are many ways to achieve full flight with a disc golf driver. Play around with different discs, experiment with varying stabilities, and practice throwing in all three styles—hyzer flip, anhyzer release, and flat release. Over time, you’ll discover which combination works best not only for maximum distance but also for consistency.
Remember, every throw is an experiment, and every disc is a potential new favorite. So grab some distance drivers, hit the field, and let those S-curves fly!
Remember, maximum distance isn’t all about raw power—it’s about finding the safest and smartest flight path. And hey, what’s cooler than nailing a hyzer flip-bomb around a tree while your buddies cheer? (Answer: not much.)
Improving Your Power Through Training
Distance starts with good mechanics and ends with… muscles. Don’t worry—you don’t need to become a bodybuilder, but a little strength training can go a long way. Focus on your leg muscles, triceps, and core for maximum impact.
Here’s the cheat sheet:
- Legs: Squats and lunges for powerful launches.
- Triceps: Push-ups or bench presses to add oomph to your release.
- Core: Planks and twists to whip those hips around like a pro.
Oh, and don’t forget to stretch and mimic throwing movements with resistance bands or free weights. It’s like practicing air guitar, but way cooler (and more useful).
Clean Your Discs
Here’s a little-known secret: a dirty disc is less aerodynamic. Mud, scratches, and grime can mess with your flight path and cause early turnover, making your disc crash-land like a tired bird. Keep your disc clean and, when it’s seen better days, retire it with dignity. After all, a shiny disc flies farther—and looks way better in Instagram photos.
Do The Work – Field Work
Want to throw farther? There’s no magic shortcut—you’ve got to put in the work. Head to a field with your bag full of discs and start throwing. Work on your consistency, refine your form, and take notes on what feels right.
Practice makes perfect—or at least “pretty darn good.” Before you know it, your disc will be flying farther than your excuses for missing putts.
How to Get More Distance in Disc Golf
The Proper Run-Up
A solid run-up is the foundation of a powerful throw. Think of it as the runway for your disc’s takeoff. For a right-hand backhand throw, you’ll need to nail the X-step, which looks something like this:
- Right foot forward. This starts the motion.
- Left foot crosses behind the right. This creates the “X” shape and sets up your body for rotation.
- Right foot forward again, heel pointing toward your target. This is the planting step where all the magic happens.
From there, shift your weight from your back (left) foot to your front (right) foot as you rotate your hips. This hip rotation generates the power behind your throw. Remember, your hips and arms should work in harmony—no overachieving hips or slacking arms. Keep your head centered over your body to ensure your shoulders stay level, which helps with both accuracy and generating the right angle and height for your shot.
Miss the timing or alignment? You’ll end up with less power, misaligned hips, and a sad, short throw. So, get that X-step right and let your hips do the heavy lifting—literally.
The Proper Reach-Back
With the run-up nailed, it’s time to focus on the reach-back. Think of this as pulling back the slingshot before launching it. The key here is to reach back as far as possible while staying controlled. This gives you the time and space to generate more power as you pull through for the release.
Here’s how to ace it:
- Keep your head aligned with the disc during the reach-back. No sightseeing—your focus should follow the disc as it moves behind you.
- Your head should also move naturally with your front shoulder, setting you up for a fluid, powerful motion.
A proper reach-back creates a longer pull-through path, giving you more time to build speed and momentum. Translation? A throw that makes your disc fly like a rocket.
The Proper Grip
Spoiler alert: there’s no one-size-fits-all grip for throwing farther. Even the pros use grips as varied as their throwing styles, and they’re not exactly evangelizing a single method. That’s because the best grip is the one that feels right for you.
Here’s the game plan:
- Experiment. Try out different grips to see what suits your hand and your throwing style.
- Adapt. Different grips work better for different types of shots, so don’t lock yourself into one method.
- Stay comfortable. The ideal grip should feel secure without causing tension in your hand.
Finding the right grip early in your disc golf journey is key. If you get stuck on one grip that isn’t working well, it can be harder to adjust later. Be flexible and willing to change things up—it’s all part of the process of leveling up your throw.
With the right run-up, reach-back, and grip, you’re well on your way to longer, more powerful throws. It’s not about perfection—it’s about consistent improvement. And remember, every awkward misstep or grip adjustment is just another stepping stone to throwing that disc farther than you ever thought possible.
Conclusion
Learning how to throw disc golf further is a journey of refining technique, building strength, and practicing consistently. From perfecting your run-up and reach-back to experimenting with the right grip, every small adjustment brings you closer to your goal of longer throws. Remember, distance isn’t just about raw power—it’s about control, timing, and finding the techniques that work best for you.
Whether you’re honing your X-step, dialing in your grip, or spending hours in the field perfecting your form, each effort adds up. With dedication, you’ll soon see your discs flying farther than ever before, earning nods of approval from fellow players. Keep practicing, stay patient, and watch your game—and your throws—soar to new heights.
Now grab your discs and start putting these tips into action. The key to throwing disc golf further is right in your hands—literally!
