Beginner's Guide

What Is Disc Golf?

Disc golf is a fun, accessible outdoor sport that’s similar to traditional golf—but instead of hitting a ball into a hole, you throw a flying disc towards a basket. Each hole starts at a tee area and you complete the hole by throwing the disc into the elevated metal basket in as few throws as possible. Players walk courses that are typically in parks, forests, or open fields. Most courses have 9 or 18 holes, and disc golf is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Disc golf is easy to learn, affordable, great exercise, and perfect for both solo rounds and friendly competitions.

What Equipment Do You Need?

To start playing, you don’t need much:

  • Discs — Similar to frisbees but designed to fly predictably.
  • Comfortable shoes — Trails and grass can be uneven.
  • Scorecard & Pencil (optional) — For keeping score, or download UDisc.
  • Bag - To carry your discs.
  • And don't forget to be hydrated, slip on some sunscreen and take someone with you!

Understanding Disc Types

Discs are broadly grouped by how they fly. Each type is suited for different kinds of throws and player skill levels.

Putters

  • Slow speed, easy to control (hint: great for beginners!)
  • Great for short shots near the basket.

Midrange

  • Moderate speed and control (hint: good for beginners who got used to throwing putters consistently!)
  • Excellent for fairway shots and approach throws.

Fairway Drivers

  • Slightly faster than midrange.
  • More accurate than distance drivers.

Distance Drivers

  • Highest speed, longest distance.
  • Require more skill and arm speed.

Flight Numbers Explained

Each disc has four numbers that describe how it flies:
Speed / Glide / Turn / Fade

Term What It Means
Speed How fast the disc moves through the air. Higher speed needs more power.
Glide How long the disc stays in the air. More glide = more distance.
Turn How the disc curves right (for right-handed backhand) during high-speed flight.
Fade How the disc hooks left (for right-handed backhand) as it slows down.

Example: 7 / 5 / -2 / 1
This disc has moderate speed, good glide, slight turn right, and mild fade left.

Discs for Beginners

Beginners should pick discs that are:

  • Low to moderate speed (easier to control)
  • Stable or slightly understable (gentler turn)
  • From categories like putters and midrange

You can find all beginner-friendly discs in this store under “Beginner Friendly Discs”.

Beginner Friendly Discs