When there isn’t a straight path to throw the disc – a flex shot is the best option to avoid obstacles. It is also the easiest way to cover more distance. However, the crown of covering the maximum distance still goes to the Hyzer shot, but if we talk about which is more accessible, then the flex shot is the ultimate winner.
In this blog post, we will delve into the intricacies of the flex shot and break down the mechanics of the shot, discuss when and how to use it effectively and provide tips for mastering this impressive technique.
Understanding the Flex Shot
The flex shot is a throwing method used to throw through narrow fairways or shape throws around obstructions. It entails throwing the disc at a deliberate angle so that it bends and curves in the opposite direction from the player’s dominant throwing hand.
To execute a flex shot, a right-handed player (left-handed players can just reverse the directions) would normally use a backhand hold and aim the disc slightly to the right of the target. The player imparts an anhyzer angle (tilting the disc away from their throwing hand) when the disc is released to start the flex. The disc then travels along a curved route, bending back to the left before landing nearer the target.
Flex Shot vs. Hyzer Flip
A flex shot is the opposite of a hyzer flip. If we compare both, the former is easy to comprehend by a beginner because it is a natural way to throw a disc and push for distance. The basic differences between both techniques are as follows:
Flex Shot | Hyzer Flip | |
Technique | An anhyzer release angle causes it to flex and curve in the opposite direction. | At a hyzer angle, flip the disc to a flat or turn it to the right. |
Flight Path | The disc initially veers to the right before flexing back to the left, creating an S-shaped flight path. | The disc initially turns to the right or flips from a hyzer angle to flat before gliding straight or turning slightly to the right |
Purpose | Flex shots are commonly used to navigate tight fairways or shape shots around obstacles. | It’s a useful technique for shaping shots that require long, controlled turnovers or gentle fading turns. |
Disc Selection | For flex shots, players typically choose discs with a stable-to-overstable flight rating. | Hyzer flips often utilize understable discs that have a natural tendency to turn right. |
Advantages of the Flex Shot
- Navigation of Tight Fairways: Disc golf courses frequently have short fairways with a variety of hazards, such as trees, bushes, or uneven terrain. Utilizing the disc’s natural flight characteristics, players can throw their discs past these obstacles by using the flex shot. Players can increase the likelihood that their throws will land in the desired region by shaping the shot to produce more controlled and accurate throws.
- Potential for Greater Distance: The flex shot offers a chance to maximize the distance traveled by the disc. Compared to a straight shot, the disc can travel farther and faster as it flexes and curves. This is particularly helpful while running into headwinds or when trying to reach destinations that are farther away.
- Versatility and Shot Variety: The flex shot broadens a player’s range of effective shots by enhancing their adaptability. By understanding this approach, players can adjust to various course layouts and get over difficult circumstances, improving their performance on the course as a whole.
When to Use the Flex Shot

The flex shot works best when players need to shape their shots to fit the design of the course or when a straight shot is impossible because of obstructions. The following situations call for the use of the flex shot:
1. Narrow Fairways: The flex shot can be a game-changer when dealing with narrow fairways that demand a large arc to avoid impediments. Players can comfortably maneuver through confined places and put their discs closer to the target using the flex shot.
2. Doglegs: Dogleg fairways force players to make a sudden bend in one direction, frequently necessitating a shot that can successfully navigate the turn. Players can use the flex shot to bend the disc around the dogleg, positioning themselves better for their subsequent shots.
3. Hyzer Flip Alternatives: The flex shot can be used as an alternative, though, if players want their shot to have a more noticeable curve. It enables more precision and control when directing the flying path.
How to Throw a Disc Golf Flex Shot?
In order to throw a disc golf flex shot effectively, adhere to the following guidelines:
Step 1 – Grip
Use your backhand to hold the disc. Place your index finger along the disc’s inner rim with your other fingers holding the flight plate. Maintain control of the throw by using a comfortable and stable grip.
Step 2 – Stance and Body Positioning
Take a balanced stance with your feet shoulder-width apart and your body aligned perpendicular to the target. Set up your body to move the disc in the desired direction. As you get ready to throw, engage your lower body by bending your knees just a little and pushing your weight forward.
Step 3 – Aim
Take aim by angling your body slightly to the right of the target (for right-handed players). The disc is supposed to flex back to the left during flight, which is compensated for by this initial aiming adjustment.
Step 4 – Reach Back
Before you start tossing the disc, reach it back and away from your body. Maintain an extended arm that is parallel to the ground while tilting the disc upward. Keep your hands relaxed so that you can move with ease and fluidity.
Step 5 – Release Angle
Tilt the disc to an angled position as you begin moving forward. This entails tilting the disc to the right (for right-handed players) and angling it away from your throwing hand. The intended curve and the particular disc you are using will determine the degree of anhyzer.
Step 6 – Pull Through
Pull the disc across your body in a straight line using your core, arm, and wrist in unison. Concentrate on using your lower body to generate power as you rotate your hips and torso from back to front.
Step 7 – Snap and Release
As you achieve your maximum rate of acceleration, snap your wrist to give the disc spin and energy. This snap will flex the flight path when combined with the anhyzer angle.
Step 8 – Follow Through
Release the disc, then continue your throwing motion with a fluid follow-through. Let your arm naturally reach forward in the direction of the intended flight. Maintain stability and balance while carrying out the follow-through.
Step 9 – Practice and Adjust
Repeat the toss several times to hone your technique. Pay attention to the flight path and modify your release angle, power, and body alignment as necessary to get the proper flex and accuracy.
Keep in mind that practicing and experimenting is necessary to master the flex shot. Finding the disc selection, release angle, and body mechanics that are best for you will depend on the qualities of each disc and player. You can execute outstanding flex shots with practice and commitment and add a useful tool to your disc golf approach.
Types of Throws in Flex Shot
In disc golf, you can employ a variety of throws to achieve various flight paths and shot shapes when executing flex shots. The following are some typical throws used in flex shots:
Backhand Flex Shot
The most popular variety of flex shot is the backhand. It entails holding the disc in the backhand and releasing it at an angle known as anhyzer. For right-handed players, the disc initially moves to the right before flexing back to the left during flight.
Forehand Flex Shot
A forehand or sidearm throwing motion is used to accomplish the forehand flex shot, sometimes referred to as a flick flex shot. It calls for releasing the disc at an angle comparable to the backhand flex shot. For right-handed players, the disc will initially flex to the right before shifting back to the left.
Overhead Flex Shot
Throwing the disc vertically overhand with an anhyzer angle is known as the overhead flex shot, sometimes known as a tomahawk or thumber flex shot. This kind of toss is advantageous when low-hanging obstacles or a steeply falling flight path is necessary. For right-handed players, the disc will initially flex to the right before shifting back to the left.
Roller Flex Shot
The roller flex shot combines a rolling motion with the flex shot technique. The disc is released at an angle rather than being thrown through the air and is let to roll along the ground. For right-handed players, the disc will flex to the right before rolling back to the left.
Players are able to adjust to diverse course layouts, obstructions, and shot requirements thanks to these many throw types inside the flex shot category. Disc golfers may increase their shot diversity and successfully perform flex shots in a number of settings by learning each type of throw.
Best Discs for Flex Shots
It’s crucial to pick discs with a stable-to-overstable flight rating when choosing discs for flex shots in disc golf. These discs are made to keep their line better before flexing back and to resist turning too much while being thrown. Here are some well-liked disc choices that are well-known for being appropriate for flex shots:
1.Innova Destroyer
The Innova Destroyer is a popular disc with exceptional stability and range potential. It is a well-liked option for flex shots because it can handle high speeds and has a predictable flight path.
2. Discraft Force
Known for its dependability and solidity, the Discraft Force is perfect for flex shots. It offers outstanding control and distance since it can withstand powerful throws and keep a steady flight path.
3. Dynamic Discs Felon
The Dynamic Discs Felon is a flex-optimized overstable fairway driver. It can be used to shape shots around obstacles and control wind conditions because of the consistent fade it produces at the conclusion of the flight.
4. Latitude 64 Explorer
This adaptable fairway driver features a steady trajectory and consistent fade. It is a popular option for flex shots since it enables players to shape their shots effectively.
5.Discmania FD3
The FD3 is an extremely effective flex shot performer and a stable to overstable fairway driver. It is a fantastic option for controlled strokes with a bending flight path due to its consistent flight and consistent fade.
6. MVP Photon
With a steady flight and consistent fade, the MVP Photon is a high-speed driver. It is perfect for flex shots that demand both power and precision since it has excellent distance potential while keeping control.
Tips for Mastering the Flex Shot
- The correct disc must be chosen in order to execute a successful flex shot. Flex shots work best with discs that have a flight rating of stable-to-overstable. They tend to keep their line better during the initial part of the flight before stretching back and tend to resist turning too much.
- To determine the ideal Anhyzer Angle for Flex Shots, experiment with various Release Angles. As you acquire confidence, start with a small angle and progressively increase it. Remember to alter the angle according to the particular disc you are using and the intended flight path.
- Pay close attention to how your body is positioned while throwing. You may engage your lower body by moving your weight forward and creating rotational power from your hips and core. This will aid in achieving a forceful and smooth release, allowing the disc to flex and take the desired flight path.
- Practice is key to learning the flex shot in disc golf, as it is with any talent. Spend time practicing repeating throws, emphasizing accuracy, and perfecting your technique. Adding various obstacles and differing distances gradually raises the difficulty of mimicking real-course circumstances.
Conclusion
A disc golfer’s arsenal should include the flex shot since it offers better control, the possibility for longer distances, and stroke variety. Players can advance their skills to new heights by mastering the mechanics and benefits of the flex shot and diligently practicing the move.
Keep in mind that perfecting the flex shot requires time, perseverance, and devotion. But as you gain experience, you’ll discover that you can comfortably negotiate congested fairways, craft stunning shots, and easily adjust to difficult course layouts. Get out there, practice, and develop your disc golf strategy by utilizing the power of the flex shot. Happy Throwing!
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