Disc golf takes the idea of golf, getting from tee to target in as few shots as possible, and replaces clubs and balls with flying discs and the hole with a metal basket. It is cheap, fast, sociable and can be played by almost anyone, often on free courses in public parks. Many golfers dismiss it until they try it. Then they discover a game that rewards the same skills of course management, touch and nerve, with a lot of laughs along the way.
How disc golf works
- The course. Courses usually have 9 or 18 holes, sometimes more. Each hole has a tee area, often a concrete or rubber pad, and a target: an elevated metal basket with hanging chains that catch the disc.
- The aim. Complete each hole in the fewest throws. Each throw is taken from where the previous one landed.
- Par. Most holes are par 3, with some par 4s and 5s on longer courses. Holes typically range from around 50 to over 150 metres.
- Scoring. Like stroke play golf, add up your throws for each hole; the lowest total wins. Many players also play match play and team formats.
- Hazards. Trees, water, slopes and out-of-bounds areas make it interesting, and many courses are set in woodland.
The discs
Disc golf discs are smaller, heavier and more aerodynamic than the flying discs you might throw on the beach. They come in three main types:
| Disc | Use | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Driver | Long throws from the tee | Sharp edge, flies furthest, harder to control |
| Mid-range | Approach throws and shorter tee shots | Rounder edge, straighter and more controllable |
| Putter | Short throws to the basket | Blunt edge, slow, very predictable, easy to catch in the chains |
Like golf clubs, discs have different flight characteristics. Manufacturers usually rate them for speed, glide, turn and fade. Beginners do best with lighter, slower, more stable discs: a putter and a mid-range are enough to start, adding a beginner-friendly driver later. Discs are also made in different plastics, from grippy, affordable ones to durable premium blends.
Basic rules
The core rules are simple and will feel familiar to golfers:
- Tee off from the tee area. Your throw must be released from within the tee pad or behind the tee line.
- Mark your lie. After a throw, the next one is taken from where the disc came to rest. Your plant foot should be on the line behind that spot.
- Order of play. Lowest score on the previous hole tees off first; after that, the player furthest from the basket throws next.
- Completing the hole. The hole is complete when the disc comes to rest in the basket or in the chains.
- Out-of-bounds. If your disc lands out of bounds, take a penalty throw and play from near where it went out, or as the course rules say.
- Putting. Inside a set distance from the basket, you may not step past your lie until the disc has come to rest; this stops players jumping towards the basket.
Many courses have local rules; check the sign at the first tee. For the official rules, refer to the governing body for disc golf in your country.
How to throw
The backhand
The most common throw, similar to throwing a frisbee:
- Stand side-on to the target, with your throwing shoulder pointing towards it.
- Grip the disc with your fingers curled under the rim and your thumb on top.
- Reach back across your body, keeping the disc flat.
- Pull the disc through in a straight line across your chest, leading with your elbow, and snap your wrist at release.
- Follow through towards the target.
The forehand (sidearm)
A flick throw, similar to skimming a stone, useful for curving the disc the other way around obstacles.
Putting
Keep it simple: face the basket, hold the disc in front of you, and push it smoothly towards the chains with a gentle, consistent motion. As in golf, practise short putts until they are automatic.
Technique tips for golfers
- Smooth beats hard. As in golf, a smooth, well-timed throw goes further than a wild heave.
- Use your lower body. Like a golf swing, power comes from the ground up and the turn of the hips.
- Watch the angle. The angle of the disc at release, flat or tilted, decides how it curves, just as the club face does in golf.
- Plan the hole. Course management matters: take on the risky gap only when the reward is worth it. Sound familiar? Read golf course management.
Etiquette
- Wait your turn and stand behind the thrower.
- Stay quiet and still while others throw or putt.
- Never throw when people are in range, including walkers and other park users. Shout a warning if a disc heads towards anyone.
- Let faster groups play through.
- Respect the course: stay on paths where asked, leave no litter, and do not damage trees and plants.
- Help others find lost discs, and return any you find that have names or numbers on them.
Most of this will be familiar from golf etiquette.
Why golfers enjoy disc golf
- It is cheap. Many courses are free, and a starter set of discs costs very little.
- It is quick. A round of 18 holes often takes an hour or two.
- It is great exercise. Lots of walking, often on hilly woodland courses.
- The family can join in. Children and non-golfers can play from day one.
- It sharpens your golf thinking. Course management, judging distance and wind, and putting under pressure all transfer.
How to start
- Find a course. Search for disc golf courses near you; many are in parks and recreation areas.
- Get two or three discs. A beginner's set with a putter, mid-range and easy driver is ideal.
- Play with friends or join a local club, which often runs beginner sessions and casual leagues.
- Write your name and phone number on your discs.
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip; courses can be rough underfoot.
Disc golf, footgolf and other golf variants
Disc golf is one of several games inspired by golf. Footgolf, played by kicking a football into large holes, and mini golf are also popular, and many venues offer them alongside traditional golf. Read about them in our guide to golf entertainment venues.
Frequently asked questions
Is disc golf the same as frisbee golf?
Yes, the terms are often used for the same game. Disc golf uses specialised discs that are smaller and faster than recreational flying discs.
How much does it cost to play disc golf?
Many courses are free. Some private or event courses charge a small fee. A beginner set of discs is inexpensive, making it one of the most affordable outdoor games.
How far can a disc be thrown?
Beginners typically throw drivers somewhere between 50 and 100 metres. Skilled players throw much further, but control matters more than distance.
Can children play disc golf?
Yes. It is an excellent family activity. Lighter discs help younger players, and the rules are easy to learn. For traditional golf, read getting kids into golf.
Do I need special shoes?
No, but trainers or hiking shoes with good grip are sensible, especially on wet or hilly courses.
The bottom line
Disc golf is a fun, cheap and sociable way to enjoy a golf-style challenge, whether you are a golfer looking for something different, a family looking for an outdoor activity, or someone who has never swung a club. Grab a putter and a mid-range, find a local course and give it a go. You may be surprised how much it helps your golf thinking, too.