Disc Golf Putting: Top 6 Tips to Improve Your Game
Calling all disc golfers who are eager to become putting wizards and sink those crucial putts with confidence and precision! In this article, we’re delving into the world of disc golf putting tips to help you refine your technique, boost your accuracy, and become a master of the chains.
When it comes to disc golf, putting is a make-or-break skill that can dramatically impact your overall score. Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to fine-tune your putting game or a beginner eager to learn the fundamentals, these tips will provide you with valuable insights and strategies to take your putting to the next level.
From mastering the right grip and stance to understanding wind conditions and mental focus, we’ll cover all the essential elements that contribute to becoming a confident and successful putter. So, grab your favorite putter, head to the practice basket, and get ready to elevate your putting game as we delve into the world of disc golf putting tips. Let’s tee off on this exciting journey together and unlock the secrets to becoming a putting maestro on the course!
*Note* There are LOTS of different putting styles seen in Disc Golf.
However…
Our research on techniques used by the top pros and coaches in the game shows that there is a definitive methodology considered to be the overall best for both rapid improvement and high-percentage accuracy.
For this analysis, we are highlighting images from the 2013 PDGA World Master’s Championship, showing putts from 5-Time World Putting Champion, Jay “The Yeti” Reading.
Adopt these six tips and you should see immediate, noticeable improvement in your game:
Top 6 Disc Golf Putting Tips
#1 Use a “Fan” Grip
Fan Grip
When driving, the snap of the release and resulting angular momentum create stable motion. With the slower, lower-spinning releases in putting, however, your grip must also provide additional stability for improved accuracy.
Place your Index finger along the lip of the disc, with your remaining 3 fingers fanned out along the bottom. This “fan” of fingers spread across the base helps provide the additional stability needed for a straight flight.
#2 Point Your Front Foot Toe at the Basket
One of the most common mistakes we see is players lining up putts with their lead foot perpendicular to the basket. Pointing your toe at the basket allows you to properly bend your knees (See Tip #4) and release straight ahead with your body balanced and centered.
#3 Keep Your Backswing Low and In Front of Your Body
Pull the disc generally straight backward and toward your midsection in your backswing, ending at or slightly below where your belt buckle would be.
#4 Shift Your Weight From Back To Front
During the backswing follow these steps:
- Bend your knees
- Shift your weight onto your back foot
- Push off with your back foot to shift your weight forward and onto your front foot
The Push-Off is critical to help generate forward disc speed. As you can see from the images, Jay uses a full push even when the putt is relatively short, which highlights the importance of consistency in your motion from putt to putt.
Your push and shift should pull your back foot into the air as you follow through. Just make sure you keep your body centered and aligned with the basket.
#5 Have a High Release Point
From your backswing, the motion of the disc should be straight forward and toward the basket, releasing at shoulder or eye level. Many beginners use a lower release for fear of overshooting the basket, only to instead have the putt bounce off of the basket or fly under it. For long-term success, you must release high.
#6 “Push” The Disc
Think of a putt as pushing the disc forward toward the basket, rather than throwing it. The push will keep your throw straight and use the power generated by your weight shift (Tip #4).
Different Types Of Putts
In disc golf you may hear a few different types of putts from players on the course. Each of these types of putts use different forms and have slight differences. It is always important to note that each player chooses what is most comfortable to them. Like with anything repetition and practice are the best ways to improve putting!
Disc golf putts are throws used to complete a hole by landing the disc in the target basket, often referred to as “putting.” There are several different types of disc golf putts that players use based on their preferences and the specific conditions of the hole. Here are some of the most common types of disc golf putts:
Standard Putt: This is the most common and straightforward putt. The player stands still and releases the disc from a stationary position, usually using a spin or push-putt technique. It’s a simple, controlled motion that is effective for short to medium distances.
Spin Putt: Also known as a wrist putt, this technique relies on generating spin on the disc as it leaves the player’s hand. The thrower bends their wrist back during the wind-up and then snaps it forward, causing the disc to spin. Spin putts are popular for their accuracy and consistency in various conditions.
Push Putt: This technique involves pushing the disc toward the basket with a straight arm and a pendulum-like motion. The player’s hand typically releases the disc at shoulder height or higher, and the motion is more linear than rotational.
Pitch Putt: Similar to a lofted toss, the pitch putt is useful when players need to navigate obstacles near the basket. The disc follows a lofted trajectory, allowing it to drop gently into the basket.
Straddle Putt: The straddle putt is used when there are obstacles directly in front of the player, hindering a standard putting stance. The player positions their feet on either side of the line to the basket, creating a wider stance for balance and clearance.
Anhyzer Putt: An anhyzer putt is a curving putt that starts on the opposite side of the player’s dominant hand and finishes toward the target. It’s useful for putting around obstacles or when dealing with a left-to-right crosswind for right-handed players (or vice versa for left-handed players).
Hyzer Putt: A hyzer putt is a curving putt that starts on the same side as the player’s dominant hand and finishes away from the target. It’s effective for putting around obstacles or when dealing with a right-to-left crosswind for right-handed players (or vice versa for left-handed players).
Turbo Putt: The turbo putt involves gripping the disc upside down with the thumb on top and the remaining fingers beneath the flight plate. The player then flicks their wrist to generate spin and accuracy. Turbo putts are often used to overcome obstacles and tricky situations.
Flick/Push Spins Putt: A variation of the standard spin putt, this technique combines elements of the flick (sidearm) and the spin putt. It involves a wrist-flick motion, generating both spin and forward motion to the disc.
Players may employ various combinations of these putting techniques, adapting to different course layouts, wind conditions, and personal preferences. Consistency and practice are key to mastering these putting styles in disc golf.
Recommended Putter Mold: PA3
- ABOUT THE PA-3 - The Prodigy 300 PA-3 is a laser straight flying putter which is great for all levels of players whether you are a beginner or a pro. It will even hold true in wind
- HOW IT FLIES - The Prodigy PA-3 is meant for those straight as an arrow drives or approach shots, and as the plastic beats in, it becomes a hyzer-flip to flat disc golf putter.
- ABOUT THE PLASTIC - The Prodigy 300 Plastic is a special blend of materials that is durable enough to take solid impact, but can be beaten in over time. It maintains its grip and great feel
- FLIGHT RATINGS - The PA-3 is rated at Speed 3 | Glide 4 | Turn 0 | Fade 1. This means that it is perfect whether you are throwing it off of the tee or using it for putting. It will fly laser straight
- COLOR & STAMP MAY VARY - Please be aware when purchasing the Prodigy 300 PA-3 that the disc color and color stamp will vary from disc to disc
Manufacturer: Prodigy
Plastic: 300
Weight: 170-174g
Why the 300 PA3?
The PA3’s high wind-resistance and predictability have made the PA3 a top professional putter selection.
Additionally, the PA3 has very low fade, ensuring straight flights on short putts as well as straight finishes on long putts and approaches.
These two features combine to provide maximum versatility and consistency.
The PA3 was optimized for use in the 170-174g weight class, and Prodigy’s 300 plastic was developed specifically for putters and midrange discs.
See the PA3’s full Flight Ratings Analysis and Reviews
Closing
As we conclude our exploration of disc golf putting tips, we hope you now feel equipped with valuable knowledge to transform your putting game and elevate your performance on the course. Remember, putting is not just about physical technique; it’s a mental game as well. Developing a strong mindset and maintaining focus are essential components of becoming a successful putter.
As you practice and implement these putting tips, be patient with yourself and allow room for improvement. Like any skill in disc golf, putting takes time and dedication to master. Embrace the learning process, celebrate your progress, and use every opportunity on the practice green and the course to refine your skills.
One of the beautiful aspects of disc golf is the sense of community among players. Don’t hesitate to seek advice and tips from experienced disc golfers, engage in friendly putting competitions with fellow players, and share your knowledge with others. The shared passion for the sport and the support of the disc golf community can provide valuable insights and encouragement on your journey to becoming a putting maestro.
As you step up to those critical putts with newfound confidence and precision, remember to enjoy the thrill of watching your discs find the chains with grace and accuracy. Disc golf putting is an art that continues to evolve, and there’s always room to learn, improve, and discover new techniques.
So, fellow disc golfers, go out there and embrace the challenge of mastering your putting skills. With dedication, practice, and the knowledge gained from these putting tips, you have the tools to become a formidable force on the putting green. Happy disc golfing, and may your putts always find the center of the chains!
Additional – Check out my article on the best disc golf putters
