Understanding Disc Golf Basics: A New Player’s Guide

Disc golf is growing fast, and it’s no wonder why—it’s affordable, fun, and easy to pick up, even for complete beginners. This guide covers everything you need to get started in disc golf, from equipment to rules and tips. Let’s dive in!

What is Disc Golf?

Disc golf is similar to traditional golf but played with discs (you may know them as Frisbee's) instead of balls and clubs. The goal is simple: complete the course by reaching each target basket in as few throws as possible. Each “hole” has a starting tee area and a basket as the target, typically ranging from 150 to 500 feet away. A standard course usually has 18 holes, divided into two sections: the front 9 and the back 9.

Essential Equipment for Beginners

To get started in disc golf, you don’t need much equipment, which is one of the reasons it’s so accessible. Here’s a quick rundown of the essential gear:

• Driver Disc: Designed for distance, drivers have a thin edge that cuts through the air, allowing them to fly far. Beginners should start with slower-speed drivers for better control.

• Midrange Disc: Midranges are more stable and easier to control than drivers, making them great for beginners aiming for accuracy.

• Putter Disc: Putters are used for short, controlled shots, particularly when you’re close to the basket. They have a thicker rim and are highly stable.

Many starter sets come with these three types of discs, which is all you need to get going at first.

Basic Rules and How to Play

Disc golf is easy to learn but challenging to master. Here’s a quick overview of the rules and how to play:

1. The Tee-Off: Each hole starts with a throw from the designated tee area. You throw your discs as far as you can toward the basket.

2. Advancing the Disc: After the first throw, players take turns throwing from the spot where their disc landed, aiming to reach the basket.

3. Completing the Hole: A hole is completed when the disc lands in the basket. Keep track of the number of throws taken for each hole!

4. Scoring: Like golf, the goal is to finish with the fewest throws possible. Each hole has a designated par, which is the expected number of throws to complete it. You want to try to complete each hole at or below par. You start with a score of zero. For every throw above par, add 1 point to your score (+1). For every throw below par, subtract 1 point (-1). If you finish a hole at par, your score doesn’t change.

   
   

Understanding Disc Flight and Throwing Techniques

Learning how to throw a disc accurately is a fundamental skill in disc golf. There are two primary throwing techniques:

• Backhand Throw: The most common throw in disc golf, where the arm crosses the body. Great for distance and control.

• Forehand Throw: Also known as a sidearm throw, this throw uses a flicking motion and is ideal for navigating tight angles.
  

Discs have different flight numbers—ratings that indicate speed, glide, turn, and fade. These numbers give you insight on how the disc will fly, and what to expect when it flies. Understanding these ratings can help you choose the right disc and improve your throws. Using a stability guide will help you visualize how a disc will perform before you buy it!

Disc Golf Etiquette for New Players

Good sportsmanship and etiquette are central to disc golf. Here are a few basic etiquette tips to help you get started:

• Be Respectful of Other Players: Give other players space, and wait for them to finish a hole before throwing.

• Respect the Course: Follow local rules, avoid damaging vegetation, and don't litter!

• Let Faster Players Play Through: If a group behind you is moving faster, let them play through.
  

These small gestures keep the game enjoyable for everyone.

Where to Play Disc Golf and Finding Courses

Finding a place to play disc golf is easier than you might think. Many parks have courses available to the public, often for free. Apps like UDisc allow you to locate courses nearby and even see course maps, reviews, and difficulty levels. This makes it easy to explore different courses and find ones that suit your skill level.

Disc golf is a sport that’s easy to start and endlessly rewarding as you improve. With just a few discs and some basic know-how, you can get out on the course and enjoy the game. Remember, the best way to get better is to play, so grab a disc, head to the course, and see where the game takes you!