The history of Frisbee can be traced way back before the invention of popular childhood plastic discs.
And even after that, there has been an invention after another, leading to the creation of the ultimate toys we enjoy today.
Throwing is undoubtedly fun and the game gets even better with distinctive throws.
Basic Ultimate Frisbee Throws
1. Backhand
This is one of the easiest throws to learn. Hence, it’s popularly taught to newbies.
The disc throwing is normally with much ease and should come naturally.
The first step is working on arranging your fingers perfectly. For that, secure your four fingers into the cup of the disc and squarely place the thumb on the lead.
Then for right-handed individuals, maintain a straight posture, twist your body towards the left side, to achieve a bent wrist.
The secret is to have your elbow in front of you at this time.
Now that you’re set, swiftly un-do the above steps in a matter of seconds, while throwing the disc forward.
Remember to focus on the level of movement you want to achieve. Focus on making it more fun by adding a little spin.
The first few throws might not be as perfect as you might want them to appear, but they will get better with time.
Your wrist will help you control the spin as you snap.
2. Flick/Forehand
Unlike the backhand, which is easier to learn, the Forehand though easy requires some moderate practice and discipline to grasp.
However, the good thing about this is that once you master it, you get to use less energy and a shorter period to throw.
The simplest way to get ready for a successful spin is by only using your middle, pointer and thumb fingers.
Begin by securing the rear side of the disc with both your pointer and middle fingers. And then place the thumb on the front side.
Afterward, position yourself for a throw by ensuring your disc is parallel with the ground.
Then slowly move your wrist towards your back, the further you can, the better.
Now, snap the disc forward while at the same time letting your arm be carried by the motion.
Remember for a perfect spin, your disc should revolve around your fingers and fling off with much ease.
3. Hammer/ Overhead
The hammer is a replica of the Forehand only that it requires additional skills to perfect.
It’s mainly used as the last resort and can be a game-changer when the timing is correct.
The trick is to cast it strictly over your head and across your statue, fast and furious.
The best way to achieve this is to behave like you’re about to launch an axe at your opponent.
The inner part of your disc should be held into place with both your middle and pointer fingers, while the thumb securely rests on the outside.
Ensure the tilted front side of the disk is facing your left side for great positioning.
Next, slowly pull back until your disc is at an even angle with your forehead, release it.
Your elbow should be bent.
And watch as the disc revolves from the tilted angle to the desirable upside-down position.
Advanced Ultimate Frisbee Throws
1. Wheeler
This is one of the rarest throws. It’s achieved through the combination of both the hammer and the thumb.
You should hold your disc upside down and bring it above your head like a hammer before releasing it.
To achieve the desirable spin, let it “fall” off your thumb.
2. Thumber
As its name suggests, the thumber is mainly characterized by throwing using the thumb.
Unlike other instances where the thumb stays on the outer part of the disc, here you secure it inside the rim while keeping the remaining fingers on the outside.
To achieve a thumber, position yourself like you’re about to throw a forehand, only that in this case, your upper body undergoes a lot of motion.
It’s similar to the position you take when throwing a football.
So once you’re on the forehand side, toss the disc and then let your thumb do the pushing and the flicking.
Your elbow and wrist should snap simultaneously.
3. Chicken Wing
The chicken wing throw is similar to the thumber as the thumb goes to the inner cup of your disc, while the other four fingers remain outside for support purposes.
Ensure your arm is stretched out to achieve a parallel position with the ground below.
Place the disc further from your shoulders ready for a throw.
Afterward, quickly pull your stretched arm back and let your wrist bend as much as you can.
This will enhance the speed of the throw.
Now, move your arm forward and release everything with massive speed. Your disc should fling off the thumb and move forth, towards your target.
4. Scoober/Scuber
This is so similar to the hammer throw. The disc is however not thrown over the head.
Instead, position yourself to face your throw target and then rotate on your left foot to achieve a 180-degrees turn, such that your back becomes the one facing your target.
However, the target should still be visible.
Hold your disc in an upside-down position like a hammer and charge for a throw while your arm attains a bent position.
Your arms’ angle should be slightly above the ground. And is an ultimate scoring point for short passes.
5. Elevator Pass
This makes an incredible throw for indoors. The most common way to achieve this throw is by holding your disc with a slightly bent arm.
The position should be similar to that of backhand, but at a 45-degree angle forward. Ensure your knees are bent a little.
Then, quickly lift your arm into a straight position, straighten your knees and spin the disc forward as you release it, upwards.
To give it a spin, snap your thumb towards the left. The disc should go up before coming down.
The elevator pass isn’t suitable for the outdoors because the wind can easily interfere with the disc movement.
How do you throw a flick in Ultimate Frisbee?
A flick is the forehand throw and is the most common way to motion on the ultimate Frisbee.
Here are a few steps on how to flick, properly.
1.Position your arm directly above you and turn it around like you’re opening a doorknob.
Your arm should achieve the L-position.
Take a few minutes to practice until you can use your wrist mainly, with little hand movements.
2. Now that you understand that it’s your wrist that does most of the work, position your middle and pointer finger with the thumb, to form an L.
You can easily do it the way you used to create a gun, with your fingers, in your childhood days.
You can alternatives let your middle and pointer finger spread out, a little to form a peace signal.
3. Now, slide the rim of your disc into your middle and pointer finger.
Bend your thumb to hold it.
Ensure your grip is tight to prevent the disc from sliding off.
4. Now hold the disc parallel to the ground, at shoulder-height, perform the knob motion and release it forward.
Adjust accordingly grip and wrist movements, until you find your comfort zone and hit your target, correctly.
Repeat until you get it right. Remember this requires a lot of patience.
FAQ About Ultimate Frisbee Throws
How many ways are there to throw a Frisbee?
There are three ways in which you can throw a Frisbee. They are the Forehand, Backhand, and Overhead.
What is a pull in Ultimate Frisbee?
A pull is a throw-off that comes at the beginning of the game, immediately after soccer or half-time. It marks the beginning/ continuation of the game/playing.
How long can you hold the Frisbee in Ultimate Frisbee?
You can only hold it not more than 10 seconds.
Conclusion: Main Takeaways
The above list isn’t conclusive.
There are several other throws that you can learn and master.
And they include the Roller Throw, Push pass and many more.
Use the above tips as a guide to push yourself towards achieving your Ultimate player goals.
The secret is to always find an opportunity to learn.
And that includes turning negative criticism into positive energy.
