what should i know before i start playing disc golf

Full Answer

What do you need to play disc golf?

The only thing you need to play disc golf is a disc. That’s it! You don’t even need an established disc golf course – you can take your disc to practically any uncrowded open space and turn it into a disc golf course of your own. More than likely, however, there is a disc golf course near you.

How long does it take to get good at disc golf?

If this sounds like you, your disc golf game could be pretty solid after just a few months of practice. If you don’t exercise regularly, it’s not a big deal. Disc golf is not a sport that requires a ridiculous amount of physical exertion per round.

What is disc golf and why should you play it?

Disc golf can also show you a new, exciting way to spend your time, a way to engage socially and make new friends, a path to exercising and better physical health, a lot of competition, a way to relax, a way to save some money, and just an overall awesome atmosphere that stands out from almost every other activity out there. It’s that time, guys.

How do Disc players know which discs to buy?

They understand the physics of spinning discs so they use that to make discs that will fly with less speed, turn to one side or the other, and stay in the air longer. As a new player, you must pick discs that work for beginners. Most discs have a flight ratings system that consists of four numbers (i.e. 8/5/-2/2). You will see it on the disc.

What do you need to start playing disc golf?

In order to play disc golf, you need at least 3 disc golf discs (preferably 6), a bag to carry your discs, some course-appropriate accessories (water, snacks, disc retreiver, towel, mini marker disc, sharpie), and a good local course to play disc golf on.

How do I prepare for my first disc golf tournament?

3:155:33How to prepare for your First Disc Golf Tournament - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo having your putter with you obviously you're going to want that to putt with but having a backup.MoreSo having your putter with you obviously you're going to want that to putt with but having a backup. That can help you as you're practicing. Getting ready having a few extra reps there can be nice.

What are the 3 basic rules for playing disc golf?

0:365:00The Rules of Disc Golf - EXPLAINED! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFor a hole to be complete the disc must land in the chains or insert the baskets. If. It is theMoreFor a hole to be complete the disc must land in the chains or insert the baskets. If. It is the target and bounces back out onto the floor. This does not count.

How far should a beginner throw a disc golf?

According to the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA), you can expect beginners to throw disc golf discs at an average distance of around 175 to 250 feet. This is typically approximately 80% of their ultimate throwing distance, becoming farther as they gain more experience in the sport.

How do you train for disc golf?

Tips for Improving Your Disc Golf GameDevelop mental focus. ... Build total-body strength. ... Practice, practice, practice. ... Static Stretches:Dynamic Stretches:Plank Knee-to-Elbow Touches (alternating): 20 reps/3 sets.1 Arm Dumbbell Row-to-Presses: 15-20 reps each side/ 3 sets.More items...•

How do you mentally prepare for a disc golf tournament?

The 7 best mental disc golf tipsMake sure that you're mentally prepared to play. So this tip is probably about as general as I can get. ... Don't rush yourself. ... Focus. ... Be confident. ... Keep a positive mindset. ... Playing against someone else can make you better… ... Be patient.

What is the golden rule of disk golf?

Basically, the Golden Rule of Disc Golf is to have respect and manners while you're on the course and interacting with other players. Not only is it about treating other players how you'd like to be treated, but it's also about respecting their property, the course, and the game as a whole.

What are 5 rules of playing disc golf?

Basic Rules of Disc GolfSafety First. Never throw when other players or people are within range. ... Tee Throws. Each hole begins with a tee throw. ... Throwing Order. ... Fairway Throws. ... Mandatory. ... Unplayable Lie. ... Out Of Bounds. ... Completion Of Hole.More items...

Can you jump throw in disc golf?

A jump putt is a form of disc golf putting where the disc golfer actually jumps as he or she releases the putter. The purpose of a jump putt is to generate more power and gain distance while still maintaining control of the shot with a putt instead of a full throw.

How many calories do you burn playing disc golf?

One single round of disc golf burns approximately 400 to 500 calories and consists of walking around 6000 to 7000 steps or about 3 total miles. With that being said, disc golf is a phenomenal physical activity and one that is awesome for your health and fitness.

How do pros throw discs so far?

0:591:40How do pro disc golfers throw so far with such little effort? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWhen pros throw far they're pulling the disc in front of their chest here and they're not rotatingMoreWhen pros throw far they're pulling the disc in front of their chest here and they're not rotating their shoulders too fast because that's going to bend the elbow.

How do you get more arm speed on a disc golf?

1:582:46What is a good way to increase arm speed in disc golf? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd just whip your arm through fast make sure that you're still using good good form but whip yourMoreAnd just whip your arm through fast make sure that you're still using good good form but whip your arm through real fast don't really worry about where the disc.

What do new players need to know about disc golf?

The #1 thing that new players need to know about is the discs they should be using as a beginner, the flight ratings of discs, and how to pick out the right discs. That is the single most important thing for beginners in disc golf.

How many pages are there in the disc golf player's manual?

Before you go, don’t forget to check out the best beginner disc golf book on the planet, “The Disc Golf Player’s Manual.” This ebook is packed with over 200+ pages of the best tips, tricks, and advice for new players

What is the most common throw in disc golf?

The backhand throw is one of the most common throws in all of disc golf. It's tough to perfect, but once you master it, you open yourself up to learn the game and become a great disc golfer. But...

Is disc golf growing?

If you’ve just recently started playing disc golf, you probably already know how awesome it is. It’ s ever growing as a sport and I’m SO glad that you’ve found a sport that has the potential to give you a lifetime of fun and spirited competition. So with that being said, I’d like to officially welcome you to disc golf. I’m glad that you’re here.

The Basic Disc Golf Rules

Play is simple and very similar to golf. Just follow the course’s numbered holes. Initiate your first throw from the starting pad, then wherever your disc lays is where you play from next. Each hole has a par (typically anywhere from 2 to 5), and so the lower you score the better.

Disc Golf Gear

There are so many disc golf discs to choose from, it can be daunting at first.

Why Should You Play Disc Golf?

Take it from McDermott: “Disc golf is an awesome sport as it can be played by nearly everyone. I have played with my 6-year-old neighbor as well as my 86-year-old grandmother. It uses the natural environment in a nearly undisturbed way and promotes dispersed recreation.

Click here to read about playing the Lake of the Sky Disc Golf course in Tahoe Vista

Please note that currently Stampede Disc Golf Course is closed due to the USFS closures. Keep updated on the National Forest closures here.

What are discs used for in golf?

There are discs meant for distance driving, fairway driving, and putting. There are also mid-range discs which are like the irons in traditional ball golf and are used for a wide variety of middle length shots. You’ll find that the different types of discs will look quite different from each other.

What are the numbers on disc golf?

These are the flight ratings of the disc . Each disc manufacturer does things a little bit differently, but in most cases there are four numbers and they go in order like this:

Why is disc stability important?

Knowing a discs stability is great for us because it allows us to know in general terms how a disc will fly without having to really read and understand the discs flight ratings. Most understable discs fly in a similar way. The same is true for stable and overstable discs. For example, when I grab an overstable disc, no matter which one it is, I know that it’s going to fly like most other overstable discs.

What are disc golf discs made of?

Disc golf discs are made of plastic and each manufacturer has their own blends of plastic that they use for their discs. In fact, all disc makers have several different types of plastic that they offer, each with unique qualities that will change the way the disc looks, feels, flies and how durable it is.

How much weight is a disc golf disc?

Disc golf discs come in different weights, usually ranging between 140 and 180 grams. Lighter weight discs will fly further than their heavier counterparts, but are also more easily affected by the wind. Heavier discs may fly a little slower and for slightly less distance, but tend to be more stable, especially in a head wind.

How much weight disc should I use for a beginner?

For beginners, I recommend going with a mid to light weight disc. Somewhere in the 155 to 165 grams range.

What is a driver in golf?

For instance, drivers are meant for hitting the ball long distances off the tee. Fairway drivers still shoot long, just not as long as the distance drivers and can be used on the fairway. Then you’ve got your irons which are meant for a wide range of middle length shots, and finally the putter which is used for putting.

Why is disc golf so easy?

One disc allows the new player to focus on throwing technique, disc angles, and repetition which accelerates the learning curve. One disc is also easier for kids to keep track of when playing a course or in the classroom. Equipment responsibility is part of the game.

How many discs are needed for disc golf?

The beauty of disc golf is that it only takes one disc to play. One disc is recommended in the classroom when first introducing disc golf. It makes it easy to teach and for the group or individual to learn. Implementing different discs too soon will work against the group, individual, and instructor.

What is the difference between a golf disc and a Frisbee?

When compared to a Frisbee, a golf disc travels faster and farther which may make it more difficult to control.

How popular is disc golf?

Choosing the right disc for a child or beginner makes a big difference in their success and their first impression of disc golf. Disc golf has steadily increased in membership popularity by 15 percent over the last seven years. The game of disc golf has a 72 percent course growth rate, and tournament play has increased by 90 percent. These stats translate to an all-time high for disc selection and courses to play. There is a wide variety of disc manufacturers and no one brand stands above the other when it comes to junior specific discs. Manufacturers provide a variety of styles and weights to allow the player to experiment within their own game.

How many people play disc golf?

The PDGA annually presents four separate world championship: Professional, Professional Masters, Amateur and Juniors. It is been estimated that 8 to 12 million Americans have played disc golf and that over half a million play regularly. The majority of these players participate at the amateur and recreational level.

What are the different types of disc golf discs?

Many disc manufacturers offer a starter pack, which usually consists of one each of the three primary types of disc golf discs: a putter, mid-range, and high-speed driver.

What disc should I use for a beginner?

Beginning players are encouraged to start with a lightweight, mid-range disc. Mid-range discs are multi-purpose, meaning a player can sufficiently drive, approach, and putt with it making them an economical first choice. Mid-range discs are great for juniors, beginning players, and the classroom. They are typically thinner rimmed making them easier to control and throw with lots of glide. Mid-range discs are in the middle of a throw chart. Look for a disc with a speed around five, minimum fade (overstable), minimum turn (understable), and with neutral stability when starting out.

What is disc golf etiquette?

Disc golf etiquette includes ideas on how to behave on the course, how to treat other disc golfers, and how to have a safe and enjoyable time playing.

What to do if you find a lost disc?

The next step if you find a lost disc is to return it to the front desk. You’ll often find a lost and found section of discs at courses. If you leave it there at least they have a chance of finding it once they return. Sometimes you also might get lucky and have the person tell you to keep the disc!

What to do if you have holes in your tee?

If any holes go around a bend or in a direction that isn’t visible from the tee pad, yell out to the group behind you once you’re finished. This way whoever is waiting doesn’t have to keep checking whether you’re done and can know exactly when it’s safe for them to throw.

Why is it important to follow the rule of throwing?

It’s also important to follow this rule because it means you’re out of harm’s way if a throw goes errant. Stay safe and stay behind whoever is throwing!

How to let someone jump ahead of you in golf?

The easiest way to do this is to finish the hole you’re on and wait for them to catch up, allowing them to start the next hole first.

How many players can you have in a golf group?

I’ve found that a lot of courses try to limit groups to be no more than five players because it can cause a backup of people waiting. If you are going to play with a larger group though make sure to follow the next tip in etiquette and be prepared to let faster groups play through.

How to be safe when throwing?

Safety is an important part to remember and the best way to be safe is to stay alert when others are throwing. Make sure you are a safe distance from others while they throw and can avoid any inaccurate throw coming towards you.

Important Notes About These Rules

The first thing we should note is that some of these rules might change depending on the environment and who you’re playing with. The PDGA has an official rulebook that covers every little detail that you might come across during a tournament round.

General Rules of Disc Golf

Since there are too many rules and regulations to fully understand, here’s a simplified guide of which rules you should know to play disc golf.

Disc Golf Scoring Rules

For scoring and winning disc golf rounds, the player with the lowest total score after the round is the winner.

Rules for Your Equipment

There are regulations for each type of disc golf disc, from putters to drivers. For local and official tournaments, it’s important to follow the PDGA standards to avoid throwing an illegal disc.

Who Throws Their Disc First?

When starting a new hole, the first person to throw from the tee is the player who had the best score on the previous hole. The lowest score takes the box and will continue to hold it until they get beaten out on one of the next holes.

Final Thoughts

This was a simplified overview of the important disc golf rules that every player should follow. There are a lot of regulations and specifications that go into each rule, so if you’re interested in learning more you can visit the official rules of the PDGA.

Best Discraft Fairway Drivers

The Undertaker has become the instant favorite for many disc golfers that have given it a throw or two. Any player with enough arm speed should throw this fairway driver to see how easy and predictable it is to use.