The forehand (or sidearm) throw explained

The forehand throw, although less instinctive, is a vital skill and used to complement the backhand when playing Ultimate. If their marker stands to their left, a right-handed player will use the forehand to throw to their right.

How to grip the disc

The middle finger is straight and flat against the inside rim. The outside rim of the disc makes contact with the web between thumb and index finger. The grip should be firm and probably slightly uncomfortable for a beginner's hands. The top of the disc may bend slightly under the pressure of the thumb.

What stance?

Assume a stance with the balls of the feet shoulder width apart. Initially it appears easier to learn to throw side on and/or with the elbow close to the hip. This may be a disadvantage later when you have to loop up-field and extend around a marker. The thrower must have the disc cocked, ready to impart spin before throwing. It can either start wound as far back as it can go or the thrower can cock the disc by a small whip of the fingers immediately before the throw.

The swing

The main trick is to keep the outer tip of the disc down. For the more advanced beginner the following points may help. The motion of the disc while in the hand should not be so much as an arc-like swing, but a whiplash. With increasing speed, motion towards the target starts from the shoulder, to the elbow, then wrist and finally the fingers. Stepping forward with the non-pivot may help. The pivot should be on the opposite side as the throwing hand.