Backhand vs. Forehand – Basic Disc Golf Throwing Styles

In disc golf, there are two main throwing styles: Backhand and Forehand.

Backhand

Let’s start with the backhand. This is the classic motion most players learn first. It involves pulling the disc across the front of your body—starting from the side opposite your throwing hand—then releasing with a smooth flick of the wrist and coordinated body rotation.

For a Right-Hand Backhand (RHBH) throw, the disc will naturally fade to the left at the end of its flight. For a Left-Hand Backhand (LHBH) throw, the disc will naturally fade to the right. In both cases, the disc curves away from your throwing arm.

How to Grip for Backhand

There are many ways to grip a disc when throwing backhand, but the two most common are the power grip and the fan grip:

• Power Grip: All four fingers curl tightly underneath the rim, with your thumb pressing firmly on top. This grip is ideal for maximum distance, speed, and spin.
• Fan Grip: Instead of tucking all your fingers beneath the rim, you spread (“fan”) them across the bottom of the disc for increased stability and a smoother release. This grip typically offers better accuracy and angle control, especially for approach or midrange shots.

It’s a good idea to experiment with different backhand grips until you find what feels most comfortable and effective for different situations.

Forehand

Forehand throws—also called sidearms or flicks—are thrown on the same side as your throwing arm. The motion uses a strong wrist snap and body rotation, similar to skipping a stone across water. Forehands are great for shaping shots that curve in the opposite direction of a backhand.

For right-handed players, a forehand will fade to the right at the end of its flight. For left-handed players, it will fade to the left. Some players also use the term “flick” to describe a lighter, more controlled forehand throw, often used for approaches.

How to Grip for Forehand

As with backhand, there are multiple forehand grip variations, but the most common are the power grip and the stacked grip (note that grip names can vary widely):

• Power Grip: The middle finger is placed firmly against the inside of the rim, while the index finger curls behind or next to it, also applying pressure to the inside of the rim. The thumb presses firmly on top of the disc.
• Stacked Grip: Similar to the power grip, but the index finger rests on top of the middle finger rather than curling underneath it. Both fingers press toward the inside of the rim, with the thumb pressing on top.

Conclusion

While most players naturally prefer one throwing style, developing both backhand and forehand will add tremendous versatility to your game. Mastering both allows you to handle a wider variety of course layouts and shot shapes. Give these styles a try the next time you’re on the course!