What You Need to Start
Three discs is enough to get started. You don't need expensive gear — just the basics.
Essential Discs (3 discs)
- Putter: Short, straight shots. Best for putting and short approach shots.
- Midrange: Controlled drives. Versatile for approach shots and shorter drives.
- Fairway driver: Distance. Good for longer drives without requiring maximum power.
Essential Gear
- Comfortable clothes: Athletic wear that allows freedom of movement
- Shoes with traction: Athletic shoes with good grip for various terrain
- Optional: Small towel (for cleaning discs), water bottle, and mini marker disc
Pro Tip: Many parks have beginner-friendly 9-hole courses — perfect for learning control over distance.
Basic Goal of the Game
Disc golf is simple: throw your disc from the tee into the basket in as few throws as possible.
How It Works
- Every throw counts as a stroke — just like golf, each throw adds to your score
- Lowest score after all holes wins — fewer throws = better score
- Each hole has a "par" — the expected number of throws to complete the hole
- Beat par = good round — finishing under par means you threw well
The Throwing Order
Understanding throwing order helps maintain course flow and fairness.
Order Rules
- A designated tee marks the start — each hole begins from the tee pad
- The player farthest from the basket throws next — this maintains fair play
- After each hole, the lowest score throws first on the next tee — winner of the hole tees first
- On the first hole, decide order randomly — flip a disc or draw straws
Marking Your Lie
Your lie is where your disc landed. You must throw from behind this point.
Lie Rules
- Use your thrown disc's position or a small "mini marker" — place it directly in front of your disc
- You must throw with one supporting point (usually your foot) behind that mark — don't step past it
- Don't step past it until the disc is released — this is a foot fault penalty
- The 30cm rule: You can mark your lie within 30cm (11.8 inches) of your disc's position
Out of Bounds (OB)
Discs landing beyond marked boundaries are out of bounds. This adds a penalty stroke.
OB Rules
- Discs landing beyond marked lines, water, or paths are OB — look for OB markers on the course
- Add one penalty stroke — OB counts as an extra throw
- Throw from the previous in-bounds location or a designated drop zone — follow course markers
- If marked, use the drop zone — some holes have designated OB drop zones
Safety Basics
Safety should always be your top priority. Never compromise safety for a shot.
Safety Rules
- Never throw when people or pets are in range — always wait until the area is clear
- Yell "FORE!" if your throw goes off line toward someone — warn others immediately
- Always check blind fairways or wooded corners before throwing — never throw blind
- Be aware of pedestrians and other park users — yield to non-players
- In storms, leave the course immediately — discs and baskets conduct electricity
Learning Progression
Start simple and build your skills gradually. Focus on form and control before distance.
Learning Steps
- Start with putting and midrange discs — focus on accuracy and control first
- Practice form and aim before adding distance drivers — good form leads to distance naturally
- Watch pro rounds and tutorials — learn rhythm and timing from experienced players
- Join local leagues — most welcome beginners warmly and offer helpful tips
- Practice regularly — consistency builds muscle memory and confidence
Scoring Example
Understanding scoring helps you track progress and compete with others.
Example Scorecard
| Hole | Par | Your Throws | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 | 4 | +1 |
| 2 | 3 | 3 | 0 (Par) |
| 3 | 4 | 5 | +1 |
| Total | — | — | +2 |
Par means expected strokes. Scoring under par = better than average. Scoring above par = needs improvement.
Course Courtesy
Being courteous on the course makes the game enjoyable for everyone.
Courtesy Tips
- Replace any moved tee markers or flags — keep the course in good shape
- Respect nature and other park users — don't damage plants or disturb wildlife
- Keep pace steady — don't overthink each throw, but don't rush either
- Offer to let faster groups play through — step aside when appropriate
- Pick up trash — leave the course cleaner than you found it
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting with too many discs: Three discs is enough. Master the basics first.
- Only using distance drivers: Putters and midranges are essential. Learn control first.
- Throwing too hard: Form and accuracy matter more than power. Focus on technique.
- Ignoring safety: Always check before throwing. Safety first, score second.
- Not learning basic rules: Understanding rules makes the game fair and fun.
- Giving up too early: Disc golf takes practice. Stick with it and you'll improve.
Next Steps
Ready to start playing? Here's what to do next.
Getting Started Checklist
- ✓ Get three discs (putter, midrange, fairway driver)
- ✓ Find a local course (many parks have free courses)
- ✓ Read the course rules and tee signs
- ✓ Start with a 9-hole course if available
- ✓ Practice basic throwing form
- ✓ Learn course etiquette
- ✓ Have fun and be patient with yourself!