How to Throw Forehand in Disc Golf: Step-by-Step Guide
Quick Comparison
| Product | Speed↑ | Glide↑ | Turn↑ | Fade↑ | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Innova Firebird | 9 | 3 | 0 | 4 | Utility shots, forehands, and overhand throws | Check Price |
 Discraft Zone | 4 | 3 | 0 | 3 | Overstable approaches that always fade left | Check Price |
 Discraft Heat | 9 | 6 | -3 | 1 | Understable distance driver for beginners | Check Price |
Innova Firebird
Utility shots, forehands, and overhand throws
Check Price on Amazon
The forehand throw (also called flick or sidearm) is an essential skill that opens up shot shapes impossible with just a backhand. Many disc golfers struggle to learn forehand, but with proper technique, it's a straightforward addition to your arsenal.
Why Learn Forehand?
Adding forehand to your game provides major advantages:
- Access to right-finishing shots (for right-handers) without awkward backhand lines
- Better options on dogleg holes
- More control in certain wind conditions
- Less physical stress than maximum-power backhands
- Easier scrambling from awkward lies
The Forehand Grip
The grip is where most forehand problems start. Here's how to set up properly:
- Make a "gun" shape with your index and middle fingers
- Place middle finger firmly against the inside rim
- Index finger can rest on rim or tuck underneath
- Thumb presses on top of flight plate
- Ring and pinky fingers curl naturally or rest on rim
Your middle finger is the key to power and spin. It should feel the inside rim firmly - this is what generates rotation on release.
The Throwing Motion
Step 1: Setup
Stand with your throwing shoulder toward the target. Your feet should be roughly shoulder-width apart, with weight slightly on your back foot.
Step 2: Reach Back
Extend your throwing arm back with the disc slightly wing-down (outside edge lower than inside edge). Your forearm should be roughly level - don't drop your elbow.
Step 3: The Pull
Bring your arm through in a straight line while rotating your hips toward the target. Your elbow should stay tucked close to your body through the middle of the motion - this prevents injury and generates power.
Step 4: The Wrist Snap
This is the key to forehand power. As your arm extends toward the target, snap your wrist forward. The motion is similar to skipping a rock. Your middle finger pushes against the rim to generate spin.
Step 5: Follow Through
Your throwing hand should finish pointing at your target. Keep your palm facing somewhat upward through the follow-through - this prevents the most common mistake: wrist roll.
Common Mistakes
Wrist Roll (The Wobble)
If your disc comes out wobbly and turns over, you're rolling your wrist at release. The fix: keep your palm facing upward through the throw. If you can see the back of your hand during follow-through, you're rolling.
All Arm, No Wrist
Trying to muscle forehands with your arm produces weak throws and causes injury. The power comes from the wrist snap, not arm strength. Focus on a smooth arm motion with an explosive wrist snap at the end.
Elbow Away From Body
Letting your elbow fly out during the throw causes inconsistency and elbow pain. Keep your elbow tucked during the power phase, only extending as you release.
Best Discs for Learning Forehand
Start with overstable discs that won't turn over even with imperfect form. If you're unfamiliar with stability, our flight numbers explained guide covers what these numbers mean:
Innova Firebird
Innova Firebird
Utility shots, forehands, and overhand throws
The classic forehand disc - handles any power. The overstable flight forgives imperfect release angles.
Discraft Zone
Discraft Zone
Overstable approaches that always fade left
Perfect approach disc for forehand throws. The overstable flight forgives imperfect release angles.
Discraft Heat
Discraft Heat
Understable distance driver for beginners
Understable option for learning forehand form. Use this once your form is consistent to add shot variety.
Practice Drills
The Fan Drill
Practice wrist snaps without a disc. Fan your hand back and forth, focusing on that snapping motion. Your wrist should move fast while your arm stays relatively still.
Short Approach Throws
Start with 50-foot forehand throws using a putter or approach disc. Focus purely on form, not distance. Gradually increase distance as your form improves.
Injury Prevention
Forehand throws stress your elbow differently than backhands. Protect yourself:
- Warm up before throwing forehands
- Don't throw through pain
- Use overstable discs that work with less power
- Focus on wrist snap, not arm force
- Limit forehand reps when starting out
Final Thoughts
The forehand is a valuable tool, but it doesn't need to be your primary throw. If you haven't mastered the backhand throw yet, work on that first - it's the foundation of disc golf. Many top players use forehand for specific situations rather than every hole. Start with short approaches, build good habits, and gradually add distance and power as your form solidifies.
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