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How to Putt Disc Golf – 4 Types of Putting

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Putting is where the real scoring happens in disc golf. It’s one thing to bomb a perfect drive, but finishing strong on the green is what turns par into birdie. Improving your putting will tighten up your game faster than any other skill.There are four primary putting styles players rely on: Spin, Push, Straddle, and Turbo. Each has its own strengths and quirks, and the right fit often comes down to feel, consistency, and situational control. Try practicing each style at your local course, practice basket, or putting league to find what works for you.

Putting Styles: What Are Your Options?

Spin Putt

This is the most common and natural putting style. With spin on the disc, you get more stability in flight and a straighter line to the basket. It’s especially useful in windy conditions and from medium distances. You’ll find this is the go-to for many players at both amateur and pro levels.

Check out our Best Disc Golf Putters guide to find a disc that fits the spin putt style. Want to learn about release angles? Here’s how Hyzer vs Anhyzer affects your putts.

How to Spin Putt

  1. Grip the disc comfortably — fingers under the rim, thumb on top.
  2. Stand balanced with a relaxed posture.
  3. Square your hips and shoulders to the target.
  4. Release the disc flat with a clean spin.
  5. Follow through directly toward the basket.

Push Putt

The push putt has little to no spin and relies more on a straight push from the fingers and body momentum. It’s easier to keep the disc on a stable line at close range and can reduce spit-outs from the chains, but it’s harder to control at longer distances.

How to Push Putt

  1. Square your feet toward the basket.
  2. Lean forward slightly to load energy.
  3. Push the disc forward with minimal spin.
  4. Let your arm and body follow through together.

Straddle Putt

The straddle putt involves placing both feet parallel and wide apart, often useful when obstacles limit your stance. It can be paired with either a spin or push release. The stability of this stance reduces lateral movement, making it great for consistency in tight lies.

How to Straddle Putt

  1. Use a grip focusing on thumb, pinky, and ring finger (a “tan grip”).
  2. Let other fingers rest on the rim if it feels natural.
  3. Feet shoulder-width apart, evenly balanced.
  4. Engage your hips in a controlled swing.
  5. Release and follow through smoothly.

how to putt disc golf

Turbo Putt

The turbo putt is thrown overhand, with the disc held vertically above the shoulder. It’s unconventional but useful for clearing obstacles or throwing from awkward lies. That said, it’s rarely used and requires extra practice to master.

How to Turbo Putt

  1. Place your thumb in the center of the flight plate.
  2. Wrap your fingers around the rim.
  3. Throw with an overhand motion, like a football pass.
  4. Follow through high to control trajectory.

Read the Elements Before You Putt

Putting doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Great players adjust their style and aim based on what’s happening around them.

  • Temperature: Cold conditions make discs more overstable and reduce glide.
  • Hazards: Slopes, water, or thick rough — think about what could happen if you miss.
  • Obstacles: Trees, rocks, or bushes near the basket call for creative lines or different stances.
  • Wind: Headwinds can lift discs; tailwinds can drop them early. Adjust your release accordingly.
  • Elevation: Uphill requires more power; downhill needs more control. Choose accordingly.

Pick a Line and Trust Your Decision

Once you assess the terrain and decide on a line — commit to it. Overthinking leads to hesitation, and hesitation leads to missed putts. Research shows your first instinct is usually the correct one, so go with your gut and follow through confidently.

Use a Consistent Pre-Putt Routine

Routine builds rhythm and focus. Try this simple routine or adapt your own:

  1. Mark your lie and clean your disc.
  2. Evaluate wind, hazards, and angle.
  3. Choose the right disc for your style and distance.
  4. Take a deep breath and square your stance.
  5. Execute the putt — no hesitation.
  6. Accept the result. Stay calm whether you hit or miss.

Pro-Level Putting Stats to Aim For

  • In 2023, Andrew Marwede led the MPO field with a record-setting 93.1% Circle 1X putting percentage. (UDisc Stats)
  • Top professionals typically hit 30%–40% of putts from Circle 2 (33–66 feet), depending on conditions.
  • “C1X” includes putts within 33 feet, excluding tap-ins. It’s considered the standard stat for evaluating putting performance.

Final Thoughts

Each of the four putting styles—Spin, Push, Straddle, and Turbo—has its place. By practicing each, adapting to conditions, and building a solid routine, you’ll develop the consistency that wins rounds. Use pro stats as benchmarks, and don’t be afraid to adjust your style as your form improves.

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