The turnover shot is a valuable technique in disc golf that allows you to shape the disc’s flight path, curving it to the right (for right-hand backhand throwers) or to the left (for left-hand backhand throwers). It is a versatile skill that can help you navigate tight fairways, avoid obstacles, and reach baskets that are not in a straight line from the tee.
Mastering the turnover shot involves understanding and applying various factors effectively during your throw. This comprehensive guide will explore each aspect of the turnover shot, along with some well-known examples to help you improve your disc golf game.
What is a Turn Over Shot in Disc Golf?
In disc golf, a turnover shot refers to a throwing technique that allows the disc to curve to the right (for right-hand backhand throwers) or to the left (for left-hand backhand throwers) during its flight. Unlike a straight shot, which travels in a straight line from the tee to the target, the turnover shot shapes the disc’s flight path, making it veer to one side as it glides through the air.
What are the Factors that Affect how a disc will Turn Over?
Many factors affect how a disc will turn over, such as the angle of release, the release point, the trajectory, the spin, the wind, and the stability of the disc.
How to Master the Turnover Shot ?
Here’s an explanation of each factor and tips on how to master the turnover shot using these factors.
Angle of Release (Anhyzer Angle)
The angle of release refers to how you hold the disc during your throw. For a turnover shot, you want to use an anhyzer angle, which means angling the top of the disc towards yourself. This allows the disc to fly to the right (or left for lefties) as it rotates through the air. The amount of anhyzer angle you use will determine the degree of turnover. Using too much anhyzer may cause the disc to roll or cut roll, where the disc lands on its edge and rolls in the opposite direction of its flight. A good rule of thumb is to use about 10 to 15 degrees of anhyzer for a successful turnover shot.
Release Point
The release point is the moment when you let go of the disc during your throwing motion. You want to release the disc slightly higher than your shoulder level for a turnover shot. This will give the disc more air time and allow it to turn over more gradually.
Releasing the disc too low might prevent it from turning over before hitting the ground, while releasing it too high may cause the disc to stall and fade back to its natural direction. Finding the right release point is essential for achieving the desired flight path.
Trajectory
The trajectory of the disc refers to the path it follows through the air. You want to throw the disc on a slightly upward trajectory for a successful turnover shot. This additional lift provides more air time and allows the disc to turn over more gradually. To achieve an upward trajectory, you can lean back slightly during your throw and follow through with your arm pointing up.
Spin
The amount of spin you put on the disc affects its stability and flight characteristics. You want to impart as much spin as possible on the disc to execute a turnover shot. More spin will make the disc more resistant to fading, helping it maintain its anhyzer angle throughout the flight. To generate more spin, focus on snapping your wrist hard at the end of your throwing motion and gripping the disc firmly with your fingers. Practice with putters or midrange discs, as they require more spin compared to drivers.
Wind Conditions
Wind is an external factor that can significantly influence how a disc behaves in flight. For a turnover shot, you want to take advantage of tailwinds and crosswinds that blow from left to right (or right to left for lefties). These winds will help push the disc in its desired direction, assisting the turnover.
On the other hand, you’ll want to avoid headwinds and crosswinds blowing in the opposite direction, as they will fight against the disc’s turnover and cause it to fade prematurely. Adjusting your anhyzer angle based on the wind conditions is crucial for a successful turnover shot.
Disc Stability
A disc’s stability determines how much it fades or turns over during its flight. For a turnover shot, you want to use discs that are stable to understable, meaning they have less tendency to fade and more tendency to turn over. A disc’s stability is typically indicated by its turn rating, which ranges from -5 (most understable) to +1 (most stable). Consider using discs with a turn rating of -1 or lower to execute a turnover shot effectively.
Well-Known Turnover Shots
The Flex Shot
The flex shot is executed by throwing a stable to overstable disc (turn rating of 0 or higher) on a high anhyzer angle. As the disc reaches the peak of its flight, it flexes back to its natural direction, creating an S-shaped flight path. The flex shot is useful for covering great distances and avoiding obstacles.
The Roller
The roller shot involves throwing an understable disc (turn rating of -2 or lower) on a low anhyzer angle, allowing it to hit the ground on its edge and roll forward. This shot creates a fast, extended ground movement, covering substantial distances and navigating under low ceilings.
The Hyzer Flip
To execute the hyzer flip, throw an understable disc (turn rating of -1 or lower) on a slight hyzer angle (top of the disc away from yourself). As the disc travels through the air, it flips up to a flat or slightly anhyzer, resulting in a straight or slightly curved flight path. The hyzer flip is ideal for covering significant distances and maneuvering through narrow gaps.
Conclusion
The turnover shot is a versatile and essential technique in disc golf that can elevate your gameplay to new heights. You can consistently execute successful turnover shots by mastering the angle of release, release point, trajectory, spin, wind considerations, and disc stability.
Understanding these factors will help you confidently navigate tight fairways, overcome obstacles, and reach challenging baskets on the course. Practice and experimentation with different discs and angles will enhance your ability to execute this valuable shot, making you a more well-rounded and proficient disc golfer.