Disc golf is a fun and exciting sport that is rapidly gaining popularity all over the world. If you’re new to the sport, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right discs to start with. With so many different types of discs available, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. In this guide, we’ll provide you with an overview of the essential equipment you’ll need to get started, as well as some recommended discs for beginners. Whether you’re looking to improve your game or just starting out, this guide will help you find the perfect discs to suit your needs. So, let’s get started and explore the world of disc golf together!

Choosing the Right Disc Golf Discs for Beginners

Factors to Consider When Selecting Discs

When selecting disc golf discs, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:

• Disc Plastic Types: The plastic used to make discs can have a significant impact on their performance. There are several types of plastic used in disc golf, including polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), and polyethylene (PE). PP discs are generally more durable and resistant to impact, while PC discs are more flexible and grippy. PE discs are lightweight and have a soft feel, making them a good choice for beginners.
• Disc Weights and Sizes: Disc weights and sizes can also affect their performance. The weight of a disc can impact its stability and distance, while the size can affect its speed and glide. For beginners, it’s recommended to start with lighter weights and smaller sizes, as they are easier to control and more forgiving.
• Flight Ratings and Plots: Flight ratings and plots can help you understand how a disc will fly, including its stability, speed, and distance. Flight ratings are typically rated on a scale of 1 to 17, with 1 being the most stable and 17 being the least stable. Flight plots show the disc’s trajectory, including its fade rate, turn, and glide. Understanding these ratings and plots can help you choose discs that suit your playing style and skill level.

Recommended Disc Golf Discs for Beginners

As a beginner in disc golf, choosing the right discs can be overwhelming, especially with the wide variety of discs available in the market. However, there are some essential discs that every beginner should consider adding to their bag.

Mid-range Discs

Mid-range discs are perfect for beginners as they have a combination of distance and control. Some recommended mid-range discs for beginners are Innova Star Destroyer and Discraft Wizard.

The Innova Star Destroyer is a popular mid-range disc that is known for its predictable flight path and excellent control. It has a slightly overstable flight, making it perfect for intermediate and advanced players. The Discraft Wizard, on the other hand, is an understable mid-range disc that is easy to throw and has a smooth flight path.

Putters

Putters are essential discs for any disc golf player, especially beginners. They are used for approaching the basket and are typically thrown from short distances. Some recommended putters for beginners are Innova Aviar and Discraft Buzzz.

The Innova Aviar is a popular putter that is known for its predictable flight path and excellent control. It has a slight fade at the end of its flight, making it perfect for short approaches. The Discraft Buzzz is another popular putter that is known for its stable flight path and excellent control. It has a slight turn at the end of its flight, making it perfect for short approaches and driving off the tee.

Distance Drivers

Distance drivers are discs that are designed to travel long distances and are typically used by advanced players. However, beginners can also benefit from having a distance driver in their bag. Some recommended distance drivers for beginners are Innova Valkyrie and Discraft Firebird.

The Innova Valkyrie is a popular distance driver that is known for its high speed and excellent distance. It has a slight turn over the course of its flight, making it perfect for longer shots. The Discraft Firebird is another popular distance driver that is known for its stability and excellent distance. It has a slight fade at the end of its flight, making it perfect for longer shots and driving off the tee.

In conclusion, when choosing disc golf discs for beginners, it is essential to consider the different types of discs available, such as mid-range discs, putters, and distance drivers. Some recommended discs for beginners include the Innova Star Destroyer, Discraft Wizard, Innova Aviar, Discraft Buzzz, Innova Valkyrie, and Discraft Firebird. Remember to always practice and experiment with different discs to find the ones that work best for you.

Building Your Disc Golf Bag: Essential Disc Gear

Disc Golf Bags

Disc golf bags are designed to carry discs, accessories, and other essential gear for a round of disc golf. When choosing a disc golf bag, it’s important to consider the type of bag that best suits your needs and playing style. There are three main types of disc golf bags: backpack-style bags, cart-style bags, and shoulder bags.

Backpack-style bags

Backpack-style bags are the most popular type of disc golf bag. They are designed to be worn on your back, allowing you to carry all of your discs and gear hands-free. These bags typically have multiple compartments and pockets for storing discs, accessories, and other gear. Some backpack-style bags also have additional features such as hydration systems, storage for snacks and drinks, and even built-in sun protection.

Cart-style bags

Cart-style bags are designed to be pulled behind you like a suitcase. They are ideal for players who prefer to keep their hands free while playing and don’t want to carry a heavy bag on their back. Cart-style bags typically have a larger capacity than backpack-style bags and are better suited for players who need to carry a lot of gear. They also often have features such as built-in coolers, umbrella holders, and storage for other equipment.

Shoulder bags

Shoulder bags are the smallest and lightest type of disc golf bag. They are designed to be carried on your shoulder, making them ideal for players who prefer a more casual approach to disc golf. Shoulder bags typically have a limited capacity and are best suited for players who only need to carry a few discs and accessories. They are also a good option for players who are looking for a more affordable and lightweight option.

Disc Golf Accessories

Aside from the discs themselves, there are several disc golf accessories that can help enhance your experience on the course. These accessories are essential for maintaining your comfort and safety during play.

Towels

Towels are an essential disc golf accessory, as they allow you to wipe off sweat and keep your hands dry. A towel can also be used to clean your discs if they become dirty or muddy.

Water bottles

Staying hydrated is crucial during disc golf play, so it’s important to bring a water bottle with you onto the course. There are several types of water bottles available, including camelbacks and hydration packs, which can provide additional storage space for snacks and other essentials.

Sunscreen

Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays is essential for preventing sunburn and skin damage. When choosing a sunscreen, look for a broad-spectrum formula that provides both UVA and UVB protection. It’s also a good idea to apply sunscreen before you head out onto the course and to reapply every two hours or as needed.

Hat or visor

A hat or visor can help protect your face and neck from the sun’s rays, as well as keep you cool and comfortable during play. Some players prefer to wear a baseball cap, while others opt for a visor that can be easily tucked into a pocket or bag when not in use.

By investing in these essential disc golf accessories, you can ensure that you’re fully prepared for any situation that may arise on the course.

Selecting Disc Golf Shoes: Comfort and Traction

Importance of Proper Footwear

Proper footwear is essential for any sport, and disc golf is no exception. When selecting disc golf shoes, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Ankle support: Disc golf shoes should provide adequate ankle support to prevent twists and sprains. This is especially important for players who have weak ankles or a history of ankle injuries.
• Traction on various terrain: Disc golf courses can vary in terrain, from smooth concrete to rough and slippery grass. The shoes should have a good grip on different surfaces to prevent slips and falls.
• Comfort for long rounds: Disc golf rounds can last several hours, and players may walk several miles during a game. Therefore, it is important to choose shoes that are comfortable and provide good support for the entire duration of the game.

When selecting disc golf shoes, it is also important to consider the personal preferences of the player. Some players prefer shoes with a lot of cushioning, while others prefer a more minimalist design. It is essential to find a pair of shoes that fits well and feels comfortable during play.

In summary, proper footwear is crucial for disc golf players to prevent injuries and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable game. When selecting disc golf shoes, it is important to consider ankle support, traction on various terrain, and comfort for long rounds.

Recommended Disc Golf Shoes

Disc golf shoes are designed specifically for the sport, providing both comfort and traction on the course. When selecting disc golf shoes, it’s important to consider factors such as the shoe’s material, support, and grip. Here are some recommended disc golf shoes:

Five Ten Shoes: Five Ten Cushion Pro, Five Ten Freerider Pro

Five Ten Shoes is a popular brand in the disc golf community, offering two great options for players: the Five Ten Cushion Pro and the Five Ten Freerider Pro.

The Five Ten Cushion Pro is a comfortable and supportive shoe with a breathable upper and a sticky rubber sole for excellent grip on various surfaces. The shoe’s cushioning system provides superior shock absorption, reducing fatigue during long rounds. The Five Ten Cushion Pro is ideal for players who prioritize comfort and support.

The Five Ten Freerider Pro, on the other hand, is a lightweight and flexible shoe with a durable rubber sole and a sticky traction pattern for exceptional grip. The shoe’s synthetic leather upper is both breathable and water-resistant, making it suitable for various weather conditions. The Five Ten Freerider Pro is perfect for players who value agility and flexibility.

Other popular options: Adidas, New Balance, Merrell

While Five Ten Shoes is a top choice for many disc golfers, there are other popular options available on the market. Adidas, New Balance, and Merrell are three well-known brands that offer great disc golf shoes.

Adidas offers the Adidas St. Cloud BOA, a supportive and comfortable shoe with a BOA closure system for a customizable fit. The shoe’s sticky rubber sole provides excellent grip on various surfaces, while the breathable upper keeps the foot dry and comfortable.

New Balance offers the New Balance 990v5, a versatile and durable shoe with a supportive and comfortable design. The shoe’s rubber sole provides excellent grip, while the breathable upper keeps the foot dry and cool. The New Balance 990v5 is suitable for both beginners and experienced players.

Merrell offers the Merrell Men’s Vapor Trail, a lightweight and breathable shoe with a sticky rubber sole for excellent grip. The shoe’s supportive design and comfortable fit make it a popular choice among disc golfers.

In conclusion, when selecting disc golf shoes, it’s important to consider factors such as comfort, support, and grip. The Five Ten Cushion Pro and the Five Ten Freerider Pro are two great options from a popular brand in the disc golf community. However, other brands such as Adidas, New Balance, and Merrell also offer excellent disc golf shoes for players of all levels.

Improving Your Disc Golf Skills: Practice and Training

Regular Practice

Practice is key to improving your disc golf skills. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, regular practice can help you fine-tune your technique, increase your accuracy, and enhance your overall performance on the course. Here are some essential aspects of regular practice that you should incorporate into your routine:

• Throwing form: Pay attention to your throwing form, as it is the foundation of your disc golf game. Focus on proper grip, stance, and arm swing, and make sure you’re using your body mechanics efficiently. Consistent form will help you develop a smooth and accurate throw.
• Accuracy and target practice: Accuracy is crucial in disc golf, so set up targets at various distances and practice hitting them consistently. Work on your aim and develop the ability to hit specific targets, such as baskets or cones, with different discs. This will help you become more accurate and effective on the course.
• Putting practice: Putting is a skill that requires precision and finesse. Set up different putting scenarios, such as short putts, upshots, and downhill putts, and practice them regularly. Focus on your putting form, speed, and line, and develop the ability to adapt to various putting situations.

By incorporating these aspects of regular practice into your disc golf routine, you’ll be well on your way to improving your skills and enjoying a more rewarding experience on the course.

Strength and Conditioning

As a disc golfer, it’s important to maintain a level of physical fitness that will help you perform at your best on the course. One aspect of this is developing strength and conditioning that will allow you to throw farther, with more accuracy and consistency. Here are some exercises that can help you achieve this goal:

Core Exercises

Your core muscles are essential for proper form and balance during your throws. Exercises that target these muscles include planks, crunches, and sit-ups.

• Planks: Hold a plank position for 30-60 seconds, repeating for 3-5 sets.
• Crunches: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Place your hands behind your head and lift your shoulders off the ground, contracting your abdominal muscles. Do 10-15 repetitions, then rest for 30 seconds before repeating.
• Sit-ups: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Place your hands behind your head and lift your upper body off the ground, bringing your shoulders back and chest forward. Do 10-15 repetitions, then rest for 30 seconds before repeating.

Arm and Shoulder Strengthening

Strong arms and shoulders are essential for throwing discs with power and accuracy. Exercises that target these muscles include push-ups, bicep curls, and shoulder presses.

• Push-ups: Start in a plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart. Lower your body until your chest touches the ground, then push back up to the starting position. Do 10-15 repetitions, then rest for 30 seconds before repeating.
• Bicep curls: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing forward. Bend your elbows and curl the dumbbells toward your shoulders, then lower them back to the starting position. Do 10-15 repetitions with each arm, then rest for 30 seconds before repeating.
• Shoulder presses: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height. Press the dumbbells overhead, then lower them back to the starting position. Do 10-15 repetitions with each arm, then rest for 30 seconds before repeating.

Cardiovascular Exercises for Endurance

Disc golf can be a physically demanding sport, so it’s important to build up your endurance through cardiovascular exercises. These can include running, cycling, or swimming.

• Running: Aim for 30-60 minutes of running at a moderate pace, 3-5 times per week.
• Cycling: Aim for 30-60 minutes of cycling at a moderate pace, 3-5 times per week.
• Swimming: Aim for 30-60 minutes of swimming at a moderate pace, 3-5 times per week.

Remember to consult with a doctor before starting any new exercise routine, and to listen to your body during your workouts. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your exercises to avoid injury and burnout.

Joining the Disc Golf Community: Tournaments and Leagues

Local Tournaments and Events

Amateur and Professional Events

Local tournaments and events provide an excellent opportunity for beginners to learn the game and test their skills against other players. Amateur and professional events can range from small, local competitions to larger, regional and national events. These events often have different divisions based on skill level, allowing players to compete against others of similar ability.

Club Leagues and Events

Many disc golf courses have club leagues and events that cater to players of all skill levels. These leagues usually consist of weekly or monthly events throughout the season, with the top players advancing to a championship event at the end of the season. Joining a club league is a great way to meet other players, improve your skills, and compete in a fun and supportive environment.

Charity Tournaments

Charity tournaments are a popular way to raise money for local causes while enjoying a day of disc golf. These events often have a variety of skill levels and divisions, making them accessible to beginners and experienced players alike. Many charity tournaments also offer raffles, silent auctions, and other opportunities to win prizes and support a good cause.

In summary, local tournaments and events provide a great way to get involved in the disc golf community and improve your skills. Whether you’re an amateur or professional player, there are plenty of opportunities to compete and have fun. So, why not grab your discs and join in on the fun?

Disc Golf Organizations and Resources

The disc golf community is a vibrant and welcoming group of players, fans, and enthusiasts. There are many organizations and resources available to help new players get involved and connect with others in the community.

Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA)

The PDGA is the governing body for disc golf, responsible for promoting the sport, establishing rules and standards, and sanctioning events. The PDGA also provides resources for players, including a directory of courses, tournament listings, and player rankings.

Disc Golf World Tour

The Disc Golf World Tour is a professional disc golf circuit that features top players from around the world competing in high-level events. The tour provides a platform for aspiring professionals to showcase their skills and connect with sponsors and fans.

Disc golf magazines and websites

There are several disc golf magazines and websites that provide news, reviews, and instructional content for players of all skill levels. Some popular options include:

• Ultiworld Disc: An online publication that covers disc golf news, tournaments, and player profiles.
• Inside Disc Golf: A podcast and video series that features interviews with top players, course reviews, and instructional tips.
• The Disc Golf Guy: A blog and podcast that provides news, reviews, and analysis of the disc golf industry.

These resources can be a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the sport and connect with other players and fans.

FAQs

1. What types of discs should I start with when getting started with disc golf?

When starting with disc golf, it’s recommended to start with a few basic discs that can cover different distances and flight paths. Some essential discs to start with include a mid-range disc, a putter, and a driver. A mid-range disc is used for shorter distances and for approach shots, while a putter is used for putting and short shots. A driver is used for longer distances and for shots that require more speed and distance.

2. How many discs should I start with when getting started with disc golf?

It’s recommended to start with at least three discs when getting started with disc golf. This will allow you to have a good selection of discs for different shots and situations. As you become more experienced and confident in your disc golf skills, you can gradually add more discs to your collection.

3. Can I use other types of discs for disc golf?

While disc golf discs are specifically designed for the sport, other types of discs can be used as well. However, they may not perform as well as disc golf discs and may not be as durable. If you’re just starting out, it’s recommended to invest in disc golf discs to ensure the best performance and longevity.

4. What are the most popular disc golf brands?

Some of the most popular disc golf brands include Innova, Discraft, and Prodigy. These brands offer a wide range of discs for different skill levels and playing styles. When choosing discs, it’s important to consider factors such as plastic type, flight ratings, and personal preferences.

5. Where can I buy disc golf discs?

Disc golf discs can be purchased at local disc golf courses, sporting goods stores, or online from disc golf retailers. It’s important to choose a reputable retailer to ensure that you’re getting high-quality discs. Online retailers often offer a wider selection of discs and can provide reviews and ratings to help you make informed decisions.

Beginners Guide To Disc Golf! And Recommended Discs for NEWBIES!