How to Throw a Forehand - Ultimate Frisbee

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By ultimaterob
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Throwing a forehand (flick)

This article explains how to throw a forehand (or flick) so you can become a better ultimate player.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

175g ultimate sport disc (Discraft preferred)

Step 1

Grip without disc

Gripping the disc:

I recommend starting off with this grip from the beginning because it is the best grip for the forehand. The split grip is meant to allow for more stability but by developing a good wrist flick, the need for this is eliminated. However, if you are having problems with the disc releasing flat, you can start off with the split grip and move to the power grip once you are better at throwing.

The key thing about the forehand is that it all starts with the grip. As illustrated in Image 1, you form your throwing hand in the shape of a gun.
Step 2

Power Grip (view from underneath)

Gripping the disc (power grip):

Once your hand has the form from Step #1, slide the rim of the disc in between your thumb and pointer finger, and then grip the disc as in Image 2.
Step 3

Grip (view from top)

Grip (View from top):

The view from the top as you're gripping the disc should look like Image 3.
Step 4

Wrist flick release

Once you're comfortable with your grip, the next step is to flick your wrist to generate spin on the disc. To get good at flicking your wrist, try to keep your arm stationary and just work on getting a good flick developed before adding in any arm or body motion. The spin generated by the wrist flick is crucial to having a good forehand, especially when it's windy. The more spin on the disc will ensure a more stable flight. When the disc is released and it's wobbly, that usually indicates a poor flick. The key to having a good flat flick is to keep the palm of your hand pointed up at the sky. Image 5 shows the right and wrong way to release the disc.
Step 5

Once you've developed the ability to flick the disc flat and with little to no wobble, you can add the arm and body motion into the throw. This will be different for everyone and it all depends on your flexiblity, range of motion and strength. I've found the most effective throwing motion for myself is to step with my right foot (non pivot foot), and at the same time turn my body (using my hips and core) and snap my arm, ending with my wrist flicking the disc. With this motion I am able to throw many hucks without my arm tiring since I have so much energy being contributed from my core and my legs. It has taken me many hours of practice to develop this technique and was adapted from watching good throwers throw. I would suggest that you try different techniques as well until you find one that works for you, but ideally it should incorporate your entire body. There is another reason why this is important; which I will add soon.