If you’ve arrived here without reading the 30 Day Disc Golf Plan go back and read that first as this is follow on material to days 10-12 of that guide which designed as a crash course for new players to improve their game in breakneck speed.
So What Are Obstacle Shots?
Obstacle shots in disc golf refer to the art of throwing a disc around, over, or through any obstacle that stands between you and the target. These obstacles can be anything from trees, rocks, bushes, buildings, or other man-made or natural features on the course. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, understanding what type of shot you can throw to get around, over and sometimes even through immovable obstacle is an important part of becoming a successful disc golfer.
That’s part of the fun of disc golf, you aren’t always faced with a static flat level view in front of you. Which is part of the excitement. So after you read this post you’ll get a handle on the different type of shots you can use in these situations, why you need to have them in your game, and how you can improve your skills in this area.
Obstacle shots require precision, accuracy, and creativity. There are several different types of obstacle shots that you should be familiar with, including hyzer shots, anhyzer shots, skip shots, rollers, and spike hyzers. Let’s take a closer look at each of these.
Hyzer Shots – A hyzer shot is a shot where the disc is thrown with a slight outside-in path to make it curve back towards the target. This type of shot is often used when you need to navigate around an obstacle and get the disc back on line towards the target. To execute a hyzer shot, grip the disc with your thumb on the inside rim and your fingers on the outside. As you release the disc, use a slight outward motion (flick) to make the disc curve back towards the target. You can view more of the finer details by clicking the hyzer information link above.
Anhyzer Shot – An anhyzer shot is the opposite of a hyzer shot, where the disc is thrown with a slight inside-out path to make it curve away from the target. This type of shot is often used to get the disc over an obstacle and back onto the line to the target. To pull off an anhyzer shot, grip the disc like the hyzer shot about by placing your thumb on the outside rim and your fingers on the inside (there are a lot of other grips you cn use but tis is just to get you started with the basics). As you release the disc, use a slight inward motion to make the disc curve away from the target.
Skip Shot – A skip shot is a shot where the disc skips off the ground before reaching the target. This type of shot is useful for getting the disc over an obstacle or into a position where it’s easier to reach the target. To execute a skip shot, aim for a low trajectory and release the disc with enough spin to make it skip off the ground.
Rollers – Rollers are shots where the disc rolls end over end on the ground. This type of shot is useful for getting the disc over obstacles or into tight spaces. To execute a roller, aim for a low trajectory and release the disc with a lot of spin. The disc should roll end over end on the ground, making it easier to navigate around obstacles.
Spike Hyzer – A spike hyzer is a shot where the disc is thrown with a hyzer angle and hits the ground at a sharp angle, causing it to skip forward. This type of shot is useful for getting the disc into tight spaces or over obstacles. To throw a spike hyzer, aim for a low trajectory and release the disc with a lot of spin and a hyzer angle. The disc should hit the ground at a sharp angle, causing it to skip forward.
Before you go back to reading the 30 day plan here’s a few pointers to take home.
Obstacle shots are an important part of disc golf strategy and can be used to navigate around obstacles, reach a target that is otherwise difficult to reach, or to gain an advantage over other players. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, having obstacle defeating shots in your locker can help you improve your overall game and lower your scores. Which is the ultimate end goal, anf of course doing this consistently and being a high-level player. We don’t settle for mediocrity on Brockvillehighlandgolf.com
So, if you are ready you have some practical homework to follow. Grab your discs then and head out to the course. Practice makes perfect, and with time and dedication, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the obstacles blocking your way. Remember you don’t need a course, you can practice at home, and make your own obstacles if there are no trees or rocks. Get creative, use fences, barrels, washing lines…you get the idea. Or even better go to a forrest or park with some mature trees or bushes, or a small pond. Just don’t take a disc golf bag to the swimming pool for practice.
Remember, it takes time and practice to develop your skills in any area, including obstacle shots. Start by focusing on one or two types of shots and perfecting them before moving on to others. Pay attention to your form and technique, and make adjustments as needed. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process of learning and improving.
Disc golf is a great way to get outside, exercise, and challenge yourself. Whether you’re playing in a tournament or just for fun with friends, obstacle shots are an essential aspect of the game that can take your skills to the next level. So, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. With time and practice, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.
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