Struggling with forehand throws? Finding it uncomfortable or inconsistent? You are not alone. Many disc golfers reach a point where forehand shots become more frustrating than helpful. But there is another way. Learning how to throw a turnover in disc golf could be the exact answer you need.
Instead of forcing a shot that does not feel right, you can use a backhand turnover to shape your throw in the same direction as a forehand. This skill is especially useful on wooded courses or technical layouts that require a right-moving flight path. You will find that many holes almost demand this shot.
Once you understand how turnovers work and how to control them, you will have more options, more confidence, and more birdie chances. The goal here is to help you develop a shot that makes you a smarter and more capable player.
Keep reading, and you will get everything you need to build a solid turnover game.
What Is a Turnover in Disc Golf
A turnover in disc golf happens when a disc thrown on a backhand flight curves in the opposite direction of its usual fade.
For right-handed backhand players, that means instead of fading left, the disc turns right during its flight. This happens when you release the disc with an anhyzer angle or use an understable disc that naturally flips.
Disc tilt is key. A right-handed backhand turnover makes the disc turn right, while a left-handed backhand turnover will curve left.
Understanding this movement helps you plan and shape your shots based on the angle and flight path needed.
Turnovers are not just for flash. They give you extra control and the ability to work around trees, tight corners, or narrow lines.
This is where strategy meets skill. Once you know how to create and manage a turnover flight, you will unlock new ways to approach each hole.
When to Use a Turnover in Disc Golf
Some holes practically ask for a turnover shot. Tight wooded fairways are a perfect example. You cannot always throw straight. You need a disc that will bend smoothly around the curve. That is when a turnover becomes the most useful option.
The Innova Leopard is a perfect choice. Its understable flight makes it ideal for smooth turnover shots that hold a gradual curve without fading back too hard.
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On holes with dogleg right fairways, a turnover backhand replaces a forehand throw. This allows you to stay within your comfort zone while still hitting the ideal line. It is a smoother way to shape your shot without adding stress to your form.
Even in open fairways, turnovers have their place. You may need a right-bending flight to match the terrain, avoid hazards, or adjust for wind.
The more you learn to use turnovers, the more shot shapes you can control and execute with confidence.
Why Turnover Shots Are Challenging
A turnover is not a guaranteed shot just because you try to throw one. Without the right setup, the disc might not flip at all. Or worse, it might turn too much and crash early. Many players struggle with this balance.
The biggest issue starts with disc choice. A disc that is too stable or too fast might fight the turnover and fade out too soon. You need something with a high turn rating and little fade to make this shot work properly.
Wind can also ruin a turnover. Headwinds tend to make discs turn more. Tailwinds can flatten them.
Without adjusting your angle or disc selection, wind can pull your shot off target. And do not forget the release. A bad angle or a mistimed throw often results in an early turn or a full-on roller.
Common Mistakes When Throwing a Turnover
Overpowering the Shot
Trying to force the disc to flip by throwing harder usually backfires. Many players overpower their shot, which sends the disc turning too much or too soon. Controlled power is more effective than sheer force.
Incorrect Disc Selection
Picking the wrong disc is another mistake. If you choose something too overstable, the disc will resist turning. That ruins your chance at a clean turnover. The flight will be flat or fade out to the left, completely missing your intended line.
The Discraft Buzzz SS is a great choice to avoid this mistake.
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Lack of Angle Control
Releasing with the wrong angle is another problem. A clean anhyzer release creates the turnover flight. Without it, your shot might stay straight or dive early. Working on wrist angle and body position helps build more reliable throws.
How to Perfect Your Turnover Shot
Start with Understable Discs
These discs flip more easily and are better suited for creating a clean turnover flight. A good example would be a midrange or fairway driver with a high turn rating and low fade.
Build consistency through repetition
Practice your turnover shots at different distances. Focus on your angle, release point, and speed. Start with smooth, clean throws. Then gradually add more power while keeping your form controlled and steady.
Adjust for Wind
Wind can change everything about a turnover shot. A light headwind helps your disc turn and hold its line longer. But a strong headwind might flip it too much and send it off course. Tailwinds have the opposite effect. They can keep your disc from turning at all.
You need to practice in different wind conditions to understand how your discs react. That way, you can choose the right angle and power each time.
Practice Consistently
Turnovers take time to get right. You need to focus on speed, angle, and release with every throw. Start with short distances and simple lines. Then move to longer shots as your control improves.
The more you practice, the more natural it will feel. Over time, you will build a reliable turnover shot that works under pressure and in real rounds.
Key Takeaways
A turnover in disc golf helps you shape your throws, avoid tough obstacles, and handle tricky course layouts. When done right, it is a powerful addition to your game that gives you more flexibility and control.
To throw a clean turnover, you need to choose the right disc, adjust for wind, and master your release angle. Practicing with understable discs will help you build the muscle memory and timing needed for this shot.
Turnovers are useful for more than just replacing a forehand. They open up angles that are not possible with other shots. On wooded courses or tight fairways, turnovers might be your best or only option.
Learning this shot can also make you a smarter player. Instead of forcing the same throw over and over, you will start recognizing different shot shapes and choosing the best one for each situation.
Turnovers require patience. The technique takes time, but the results are worth it. Even if you do not hit the perfect line every time, developing this skill adds confidence to your throws and sharpens your decision-making.
If you stick with it, you will notice the improvement. Cleaner lines, more parked shots, and fewer strokes per round. That is what learning a turnover can bring to your game.
Keep practicing, keep learning, and keep shaping those throws.
