Disc Golf - Forehand vs Backhand: Which Should You Learn First?

Advice from Gotta Go Gotta Throw to help new and improving players build the right throwing foundation

When you're just getting into disc golf, one of the first big questions you face is: Should I focus on backhand or forehand first?

Both throws are essential at a high level, but they require different techniques, wrist strength, and muscle memory. Here’s our honest take as a shop that’s helped thousands of Minnesota disc golfers find their form.

Backhand vs Forehand: Quick Breakdown

Backhand Throw (Most Common)

• Natural motion similar to throwing a baseball or frisbee normally
• Easier to generate power and distance for most beginners
• Better for accuracy and control early on
• Uses bigger muscle groups (shoulders, core, legs)

Forehand Throw (Sidearm / Flick)

• Requires strong wrist snap and different grip
• Very useful for tight gaps, hyzer lines, and quick releases
• Often feels more natural for players with baseball or racket sport backgrounds
• Can be harder on the elbow if done incorrectly

Our Recommendation: Learn Backhand First

For 90% of new players, we strongly suggest mastering the backhand before heavily focusing on the forehand.

Why?

• It builds better overall throwing fundamentals
• You’ll develop better touch and feel for disc flight
• Most holes on most courses favor backhand lines
• It’s easier to learn proper form and avoid bad habits

Once your backhand is solid (roughly 250–300ft consistent), adding a reliable forehand becomes much easier and more effective.

Best Beginner Discs for Backhand

Innova Leopard or Innova Valkyrie Great understable to neutral drivers that help beginners get distance without fighting the disc.

Discraft Buzzz The most popular midrange in disc golf — perfect for learning backhand accuracy.

Best Discs for Developing Your Forehand

Innova Firebird The ultimate forehand weapon. Extremely overstable and reliable for sidearm throws. Shop Innova Star Firebird →

Discraft Zone A must-have for forehand approaches and short drives. Low profile and bombs on flicks. Shop Discraft Zone →

Prodigy A2 Excellent overstable approach disc that excels on forehand shots. Shop Prodigy A2 →

Dynamic Discs Felon or Westside Giant Also popular choices for powerful forehands.

Pro Tips for Learning Both Throws

1. Start Slow — Focus on clean form before power.
2. Film Yourself — Record your throws to check for bad habits.
3. Practice Field Work — Spend time on open fields working on both throws.
4. Grip Pressure — Light grip on backhand, firmer on forehand.
5. Don’t Neglect Either — The best players have both a strong backhand and forehand.

Final Advice

Learn the backhand first, get comfortable with it, then start developing your forehand as a powerful secondary weapon.

Having both throws in your arsenal will dramatically lower your scores and open up way more shot options.

Ready to build your throwing game?

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Gotta Go Gotta Throw – Minnesota’s Largest Disc Golf Superstore since 1994. Visit us in Golden Valley or shop online 24/7.