The backhand throw explained

The backhand is the most natural throw and one that most people will use when they pick up a disc for the first time. When playing Ultimate, right-handed players will use the backhand to throw to their left: when the person marking them is standing to their right.

How to grip the disc

The disc is held with the thumb on the top side and all the fingers on the underside gripping the rim. Some beginners may prefer to place their index finger along the rim of the disc. The grip should be firm.

What stance?

The easiest way to get into the backhand stance is to take one step towards the intended target. In other words, take one pace with your non-pivot foot (the same foot as your throwing arm) towards the target then turn your body so that the shoulder of your throwing arm is pointing towards the target and you are facing perpendicular to the target.

The swing

Take your throwing arm back across your body, twisting your upper body so that your back is facing the target (much like a backhand in tennis). Also, coil up your wrist so that you have created a coiled up spring effect starting at your waist going down through the arm and into the wrist. The throw starts from the waist going through to the forearm and finally the release when the wrist flicks the disc out.It is important to try to keep the arm flowing through the same plane throughout the throw, failure to do so will result in wobble on the disc. The easiest way to do this is to imagine the disc following a line straight across your chest. Also remember that at the point of release (where the spin is imparted to the disc), a good flick will ensure that the disc flies smoothly.