What Is a Forehand Throw in Disc Golf?

The forehand — often called a sidearm or flick — is one of the two core throwing techniques in disc golf alongside the backhand. In a forehand throw, the player throws the disc with the palm facing forward and the chest pointed more toward the target line. For many beginners, the forehand feels more natural at first because the motion resembles throws used in other sports.

How Is a Forehand Different from a Backhand?

In a backhand throw, the arm pulls across the body while the throwing-side shoulder points toward the target. In a forehand throw, the arm comes from the opposite side of the body and the chest stays more open toward the target.

The flight path is also mirrored. For a right-handed player, a forehand throw typically fades to the right at the end of the flight, while a backhand fades left. Because of this, forehand and backhand complement each other and allow players to attack holes from different angles.

Power generation works differently as well. Backhand power mainly comes from the legs and hips, while forehand throws rely more heavily on wrist speed, finger pressure, and timing. At a high level, both techniques are capable of elite distance.

When Should You Use a Forehand Throw?

The forehand is extremely useful when the fairway shape favors a right-finishing shot for right-handed players. It also helps players navigate around trees, low ceilings, and awkward stances that may not suit a backhand line.

Even if forehand doesn’t feel natural at first, it’s worth developing because it opens up far more shot options on the course. Some beginners actually find forehand easier initially because the motion resembles sidearm throws from baseball or other sports.

How Do You Grip a Disc for Forehand?

There are several common forehand grips, but the two most popular styles are:

• Split-finger grip (sometimes called the peace-sign grip)
• Stacked-finger grip

In both grips, the disc is held with the underside facing upward toward the palm. The index and middle fingers press against the inside rim while the thumb applies pressure on top of the disc.

The most important thing is finding a grip that feels secure and repeatable. Comfort and clean release matter more than forcing a specific grip style.

What Is the Correct Forehand Stance?

In a forehand stance, your chest faces more toward the throwing direction compared to a backhand throw. Your plant foot should be slightly ahead while your throwing-side leg stays behind to create balance and weight transfer.

A stable athletic stance is critical. Your feet should feel grounded and balanced so you can transfer force smoothly from the legs into the throw.

Proper body positioning creates the foundation for both accuracy and power.

How Does the Forehand Throwing Motion Work?

The throwing motion starts from the ground up. Power begins in the legs, transfers through the hips and torso, and finally accelerates through the arm and wrist.

The elbow should lead the motion throughout the throw. This is one of the most important details in forehand technique — the elbow leads while the wrist stays loose and reactive.

The wrist snap creates the final acceleration and spin on the disc, but the throw should still feel smooth and relaxed rather than forced. The arm acts more like a whip than a rigid lever.

Trying to throw purely with arm strength often leads to poor control and elbow strain.

How Should Beginners Practice Forehand Safely?

Start without a run-up. Early forehand practice should focus on balance, clean mechanics, and proper elbow positioning rather than power.

Short controlled throws are the best way to develop consistency and avoid bad habits. Once the movement feels comfortable, you can gradually add more speed and distance.

Relaxation is important. A tense arm limits spin and often causes wobble or off-axis torque. Smooth technique usually creates better distance than trying to throw as hard as possible.

Choose the Right Discs for Learning Forehand

Learning forehand becomes much easier with beginner-friendly discs. Neutral putters and midranges help players develop cleaner releases and better angle control before moving into faster drivers.

At DiscKing, you’ll find a wide selection of discs for developing your forehand game. Explore products from more than 29 manufacturers in our online store and find discs that match your throwing style and skill level.