Frisbee golf, like regular golf, requires skill, strategy and precise execution to perform well. So, before you and your buddies head out to a course, you may want be prepared. Don't worry. You don't have to practice for hours and hours unless you want to go pro. You just need a few pointers and a couple words of advice to keep your Frisbees flying in the right direction. Pay attention, and you'll have the last laugh at the end of your next round of Frisbee golf.

Fixing the Flip-Over

    Although it may seem like a simple task to keep your Frisbee right side up, many Frisbee golf players find it difficult. While making your Frisbee turn upside down may be a cool trick, it makes playing well almost impossible. To fix that common problem, you have a few options. The first thing to try is making sure you are releasing your Frisbee at an angle level with the ground ("DiscGolf Technique"). If your Frisbee isn't launched parallel to the ground, it will start out flying with one edge higher than another, which makes it susceptible to flipping. If the problem persists after you've ironed out your release, your next option is to try a heavier, more overstable Frisbee ("DiscGolf Technique"). The extra weight of a heavier disc will stabilize your throws, helping stop your disc from flipping over. If neither of those fix your flipping problem, you should try throwing with a hyzer release angle ("DiscGolf Technique"). You know, hyzer. For right-handed throwers, that's when the right edge of the Frisbee is higher than the left, and it arcs to the left as it flies. Using a hyzer angle will compensate for your Frisbee's tendency to flip. The result is a straight throw that doesn't turn over. With those adjustments you'll be throwing straight and upright without a problem.

The Secret of the Sidearm Throw

    If you only have one type of throw in your arsenal, you're at a great disadvantage. With such a wide variety of holes in Frisbee golf, you need the ability to execute at least two types of throws. One great technique to learn is the sidearm throw, also known as the forehand throw. It is a very versatile throw that allows you to create varying flight paths (Dunipace). For right-handed players, start the throw by facing sideways, perpendicular to the target with your left shoulder towards the target. Step with your left foot toward the target and rotate your body, opening your hips and then shoulders to the target. As you continue to rotate and your right shoulder points toward the target, release the Frisbee (Dunipace). Now, the key is to get good hip rotation, which will increase your distance. Also, try not to lead with your elbow because it puts stress on the joint, which can lead to injury. With a little practice you'll be able to start varying your release angles, which will enable you to shape your throws around objects. Surely that ability will come in handy sooner or later.

The Stability Question

    In regular golf there are many different types of clubs, each designed for different types of players. The same goes for Frisbee golf, but instead of clubs there are different types of discs. While clubs vary by loft, lie, length, swing weight and other attributes, Frisbees vary by size, weight, stability and shape. However, stability is the most influential attribute ("DiscGolf All About Golf Discs"). So, when deciding which type of Frisbee to use, stability should be your first criteria. As a general rule, if you are a beginner, understable discs work best ("DiscGolf All About Golf Discs"). That's because beginners usually throw slower, and light, understanble discs fade less, fly straighter, don't flip as much and go farther for slower throws. In addition, slow-throwing beginners should find understable discs with large, curved lips because they stay in the air longer, which increases distance for slow throws ("DiscGolf All About Golf Discs").
    As you improve and begin to throw faster, you'll need to switch to a more overstable disc with a flatter profile ("DiscGolf All About Golf Discs"). Those discs are designed to handle high speeds without flipping over, which will give you more control. Also, as you improve you'll advance to other throwing styles such as forehand, and overstable, low profile discs work better for that style of throw.

    Frisbee golf is a great sport, but it's even more fun when you're playing well. If you apply those tips to your game, you'll perform better and enjoy playing even more. With a little practice, your next round of Frisbee golf may be the best yet.