Disc Golf Putting Skills How to Putt for Disc Golf

Disc Golf Putting Skills

Here we cover all the main putting styles for use from within 15m of the target. Let’s start with the backhand.

The Grip

Hold the disc gently with the index finger, the last point of contact as the disc is released, on the edge/bead of the rim. The middle finger gives support and presses gently against the flight plate. The thumb rests on the top of the disc between the middle and index fingers. The third finger gives the middle finger a bit of back up, while the pinky is on loosely against the inside rim to help stabalise the grip.

This grip is used for all backhand putts and short approach shots.

Putting Form

There is no one best way to putt, but there are commonalities with the learning journey. Model from the best, copy what they do and keep practicing the various styles and allow your own personal style to emerge. The images below were taken of Chris in 2010, since then his form has continued to evolve and these days involve more bend of the legs on the set up and down stroke, which generates more energy and power. Take a look and try it out!

Stand with feet more than shoulder width apart, both knees bent, front foot pointing at the basket and eyes fixed on the prize: the pole!

Bring the disc down on a straight line, with the wrist curled very slightly. Weight loaded down on both legs to summon the energy.

Push up through the legs towards the target to accelerate and then release the disc on line with the target.

Follow through with arm extended as if to shake hands high on the pole of the basket. Allow the back foot to lift at the same time as the disc is released.

Straddle Putt

This is the preferred technique by many for all putts. Some use it if they are in a tight spot on the green under a branch or stepping around a bush. It’s also good for putting on an incline to keep both feet at the same level.

Stand facing the target with the legs bent, back straight and head up. Then take the disc down on a straight line and bend further down at the knees to load up the energy.

Straddle putt follow through for disc golf

Push up through the legs and push the hips forward as you extend the arm from the shoulder and release the disc on line with the pole. For longer putts allow the upper body to twist as you reach toward the target. As you practice aim to feel for the timing, as when it’s just right it will seem effortless by harnessing the power from the legs and core.

Lunge Putt

When you’re really in a tight spot you will sometimes need to release the disc from as low as possible while stepping around an obstacle. You might even need to lay on the ground! The key is to have good balance while on the set up and as you release the disc. If you’re outside 10m you’re allowed to fall or dive forward beyond your mini marker. It’s best to practice these variations of putting too so you’re familiar the extra power that falling forward can transfer into the disc.

Position the feel to ensure you have a legal stance. Keep the head up with eyes on the target and bring the disc back between your legs, with a very slight curve in the wrist.

As the legs will have limited ‘push’ you will have to rely on the upper body to generate the energy. Twist the upper body and reach forward to release the disc on an upward trajectory.

Reverse Putt (will roll curve)

If you’re disc ends up behind a large tree and there are not too many lower branches impeding you or the desired path to the target, then try this:

Here the left foot is behind the marker and the right leg in front with the foot pointing approx 90 degrees to the target. Establish balance with the legs bent and turn your head to focus your vision on the target.

Bend the legs further as you bring the disc down on a straight line. Keep the eyes fixed on the goal!

Push up through the legs smoothly and accelerate to the point of release. For the roll curve flight rotate the arm slightly so the palm of the hand is facing upwards a little.

Reverse putt for disc golf follow through

For the follow through reach along the path of the disc and trust that it will glide on an an-hyzer toward the target. Kerrrrching!!

The Forehand

Sometimes you’re in spot where the only way to get release the disc while keeping one foot behind the marker, is with a forehand. So here it is…

The Forehand Grip

The middle finger is against the inside rim with support from the index finger. A really good alternative worth trying out is with the index finger away from the middle finger, to make a V for victory sign! The thumb rests on top of the disc opposite the fingers.

Keep the hand relaxed with loose mobility in the wrist, forearm, elbow… in fact, best to keep the whole body relaxed.

With the weight on the right leg, line up the shot by setting the desired angle of the disc in the hand.

Take the disc back on the same angle on a straight line. It will take practice to get the sequence of movements fine tuned as you use the elbow and wrist on the draw back.

Weight shifts onto the right leg and ball of the right foot at the point of release. Accelerate the disc smoothly through and extend the arm along the flight path on follow through.

Turbo Putt

The British Disc Golf living legend and 23 time British Champion Derek ‘the wind’ Robins often uses the turbo putt when inside 10m. It’s a simple motion with few variables and therefore little room for error. Also, the act of throwing from high up, down into the target is appealing. But it is an unusual technique to see in competitive situations and serves most players no purpose other than to show off or try something different just for a bit of fun.

For the grip, all four finger tips are on the outside rim of the disc. The disc rests on the thumb which is positioned near the centre of the disc. The disc will feel rather loose in the hand and a strong gust of wind could blow it away.