Tag: frisbee golf

Support Disc Golf Innovation: Preorder Idio’s V2 Footwear

by frisbeebrain, posted in DaLearning Curve, DeLaBlahg, disc golf, disc golf gifts, disc golf product reviews, frisbee golf, Jack Tupp, product reviews

What’s up, disc golf people! Today you have the opportunity to directly influence the future of our gear. I’m talking about shoes; about Idio Sports and their mission of pushing the boundaries of what disc golf footwear can be (thanks, Craig Kitchens!)

I’d like you to consider pre-ordering the next generation of their specialized footwear, the Syncrasy V2 and the Brawler V2 (Hi-Top) right now. Here’s why:

Idio is the only company making shoes truly from the ground up for our sport. And right now, they need the kind of community, grassroots support that the disc golf world has always been known for as they recently suffered factory theft and tariffs cut into their funding.

This isn’t an outside brand trying to buy your loyalty by paying Paul McBeth big bucks to endorse a generic “athletic shoe”. (By the way, don’t succumb to that age-old form of marketing favored by companies that can’t win on the merits of their products!)

Idio is a company that launched in 2020 and fought through the pandemic; a company that has listened to disc golfers and improved its products 3 times since then. I should know, as I’ve been reviewing them since the beginning.

By participating in Idio’s pre-order, you accomplish two crucial things: you lock in a pair of game-changing shoes, and you invest in a company that truly deserves our backing.

Ok, enough about the cause. Let’s talk about the shoes!

A person demonstrating a dynamic pose while playing disc golf, wearing colorful shoes designed for the sport, with an enthusiastic expression and surrounded by onlookers.
Ohn Scoggins. 2025 FPO World Champion and Idio Ambassador

Invest in the Bleeding Edge

I know firsthand the hurdles Idio faces as a “bleeding edge” innovator. Back in 2010, when School of Disc Golf was launching tailored, in-person instruction, we had no predecessors to imitate or follow in the niche field of disc golf instruction. Idio is doing the same thing with disc golf footwear.

Numerous companies have marketed shoes to disc golfers in the past. Idio designs and builds them.

They are tackling complex engineering problems that major outside brands would never touch. For instance, Idio figured out how to separate the mold—a technique usually used for cosmetic color changes (a “color dam”)—to implement a dual-hardness rubber compound in the outsole. This means the material in the front of the shoe (including the toe cap) is a harder compound than the back of the shoe. Why? Because while you pivot on the heel (the power plant zone), you use the front of the shoe to slow your speed, and all that spin and torque gets transferred into the front lugs. This targeted hardening ensures the shoe wears more evenly and gives you more lifespan. That is specialized performance functionality that only a company run from disc golf, for disc golf would implement.

Infographic detailing key features of shoes designed for disc golf performance, including waterproofing, drag-on toe design, power plant functionality, lightweight construction, X flex zone, and low drop.
The V2 Generation: Syncrasy V2 (EVO) and Brawler V2

Idio has taken their flagship product and the highly requested Hi-Top model and improved them across the board, focusing on durability, waterproofing, and style. By supporting this pre-order initiative (especially for the highly requested Brawler), you’re guaranteeing the success of these key product lines.

The Idio Syncrasy V2 (EVO)

The Syncrasy EVO is the newest model of Idio’s flagship product. They’ve really cleared the hurdle of making the shoe look fantastic, calling them “absolutely sweet” looking. But the performance is still king:

• Dig Toe Protection: The V2 features a completely overbuilt curl around the toe (the Dig Toe, or prominent Dragon toe cap). This feature means you won’t have to toss shoes just because the material wore through in one tiny place.

• Solid Foundation: The outsole is molded from one piece and cups upwards, creating a solid foundation.

• Proven Performance: Customers already rave about the traction and quality of waterproofing in the Syncrasy line.

Black disc golf shoe labeled Syncrasy V2 with waterproof feature and orange sole.
The Idio Brawler V2 (Syncrasy Hi-Top)

The Brawler V2 (code name “Syncrasy Hi-Top”) has been the most requested item of Idio since their start. It is designed to be the ultra-supportive, go anywhere, play any condition shoe. I was honestly surprised that I’d like high-tops disc golf, but after nearly a year and probably 100 rounds in mine, they are my disc golf shoe now!

• Adapt-A-Brace Compression Collar: This feature, which is patent pending, is a brace for the ankle that provides nice compression. It uses unique cutouts on the back to allow the ankle to flex naturally (fore and aft), while still providing very good support when flexing side-to-side.

• Ultimate Protection: The Brawler is made with the new, more breathable Sympatex waterproof liner. This membrane works using a physicochemical principle, utilizing water-attracting (hydrophilic) molecular chains to absorb moisture and emit it outward by evaporation. I tested them repeatedly—walking and standing in puddles—and they remained completely waterproof. The high-top collar also provides an unexpected benefit: keeping out dirt, rocks, little sticks, and thorns.

• Reinforced Construction: The Brawler is a duty-driven shoe featuring thicker, more reinforced TPU welding, which provides increased protection and waterproofing from the elements.

Black and gray disc golf shoe featuring a high-top design, labeled 'Brawler', with waterproof construction and a unique ankle support feature.
A Call to Action

Disc golfers, these V2 shoes represent huge value and specialized engineering built specifically for our athletic movements. Furthermore, Idio is a true disc golf pioneer that deserves our support. Being on the “bleeding edge” of innovation often refers to groundbreaking companies that pay a price for breaking new ground. Idio has put in the work. They’ve paid their dues. Let’s help them to keep pushing forward. After all, legitimate specialized footwear is a sign of a legitimate sport.

The Brawler and Syncrasy are currently available for pre-order. When you pre-order, you’re not just buying a great pair of shoes; you are helping an independent, highly innovative company continue to thrive and push the envelope for disc golf footwear. Give them a try—support the shoe brand that is truly from disc golf, for disc golf.

harness neuroscience to improve disc golf performance.

Neuroscience-Backed Tips for Disc Golf, Part 2.5: More on Skill Learning and Efficient Practice

by frisbeebrain, posted in DaLearning Curve, disc golf, disc golf book, disc golf gifts, disc golf instruction, Disc Golf Lessons, frisbee golf, The Science of Disc Golf

This post is the 3rd in a 4.5-part series applying widely accepted principles of neuroscience to disc golf training and execution. We will present 18 separate suggestions in total spanning 3 categories, explain how each works, and specify the brain systems involved. The first post in the series covered Aiming, Focus, and Execution, and the second post was the first half of this one, on Skill Learning & Efficient Practice. Got it? Hahaha. OK, here we go!

To realize your own full potential in disc golf, intelligent practice is as crucial as natural talent. “Getting reps in” in the field or with your stack of putters can’t be the only goal. We need to be more purpose-driven, and work as smart as we do hard.

Neuroscience offers a range of techniques that can make your practice sessions more effective, leading to faster skill acquisition and better retention.

My suggestion is to first try the ones that call out to you, or address an issue that you know has proven particularly costly to your game. In other words don’t bother tackling them in order as they are not listed in any particular order.

Silent or No-Feedback Reps

What it is: Practice throwing without watching the results of your shot. Throwing into a net is a great way to put this tip into practice as the disc hits the net before before any results-oriented feedback can spring into your mind.

Even better is throwing into a net with a TECHDISC. By first judging the results of a throw based on how it felt you tap into the all important internal feedback system. TECHDISC will capture the data for each throw, so you can compare your “by feel” impressions to actual throw metrics within seconds, or after your session.

Why it works: This technique develops your internal feedback system and refines your “feel” for the throw, making you less reliant on external cues.

Brain system involved: This practice enhances the function of the somatosensory and kinesthetic areas of the brain, which are responsible for processing body sensations and movement awareness.

TECHDISC training, disc golf tips
Combining TECHDISC with a net lets players focus on form first, and review metrics later.

Spacing Effect (Short, Frequent Sessions)

What it is: Opt for shorter practice sessions (15–20 minutes) but engage in them more often.

I tell clients all the time that quality is much more important than quantity. This post about putting improvement mentions early on that “getting in reps” may be good for physical conditioning, but not so much for thoughtfully working on form and technique.

By employing the spacing technique each session is shorter, making it easier to stay focused on more than “How many putts can I make?”

Why it works: Research shows that spaced repetition significantly improves long-term memory consolidation of learned skills.

Brain system involved: This effect is strongly linked to the hippocampus, a brain region critical for memory formation, and its process of long-term potentiation, which strengthens synaptic connections.

Error Amplification Practice

What it is: Intentionally exaggerate your flaws during practice to better understand and learn how to correct them.

I use this technique sometimes during private lessons, but until now my employment of it has been limited to a lone scenario: A client is tasked with learning a specific new skill. For instance, backhand turnover/anyhyzer shots.

Causing a disc to turn against the direction of its natural spin requires a very specific combination of disc, hyzer/anhyzer angle, launch angle, and speed/spin ratio (TECHDISC calls the last one Advanced Ratio).

So they can discover the keys to understanding how the elements relate to each other, and which turnover shots are possible in a given situation and which are not, I may ask the client to exaggerate an element that is repeatedly an issue.

I will have them change the launch angle, for instance, to help them approach the equation from the other side. Too much launch angle and the disc will lose speed and spin too early in the flight and fade away from the target. Not enough will cause the disc to hit the ground way too early.

By exaggerating a change we accomplish two things: We prove that the necessary change is possible, and we present a different – and hopefully, for that client – more digestible challenge.

Two individuals practicing disc golf on a wooded course, with one preparing to throw a disc while the other observes.

Why it works: By deliberately overdoing a mistake, you build heightened awareness of subtle motor details associated with that flaw, making it easier to identify and fix in real-time.

Brain system involved: This technique directly engages your sensory-motor feedback loop, enhancing your brain’s ability to process and respond to movement errors.

After-Throw Reflection (One-Word Coaching)

What it is: Immediately after each throw, label the rep with a single keyword, such as “smooth,” “late,” or “off-balance.”

I could have sworn I published a post related to this tip in the past, but it seems not. Or I just couldn’t find it! Maybe you can by searching the blog as I did (unsuccessfully). In a nutshell:

A common tip I give competitive clients that serves to both keep a player in the moment during rounds and leverage current experiences for future growth is to create a POST-throw routine where you give yourself 5-10 seconds immediately after your throw to observe and assess the results in a neutral, detached way (not just how the disc flew, but how your body felt during and after release).

Good, or not good? Why or why not? What change would make a positive difference, or what aspect of the throw was the key to success?

Believe it or not, when limited to quick impressions this really can be done in 5-10 seconds, and the benefits are twofold:

  • It provides a process to properly compartmentalize thoughts and emotions. Once a throw is done, unless it’s a made putt on your last hole, your full focus should quickly shift to the next shot; Assessment, Decision, and Execution. This routine allows for a specific and short window to think about the last throw before focusing on the next one.
  • Taking 5-10 seconds to observe and evaluate a throw with a neutral, curious, but NOT a self-critical mindset (this part is very important) is like jotting down notes to be reviewed later. You’ll be amazed at how fully you are able to recall each decision and throw in detail, when you have the time and emotional distance to put new insights to good use.

In only 10 seconds or less you’ll be forced to limit reflections to first impressions, and when done without self-criticism (Thinking “I suck!” is not helpful in any way) the insights can be quite powerful.

Why it works: This simple act of labeling helps to build awareness of what occurred during the throw and fosters corrective instincts for future attempts.

Brain system involved: This practice utilizes your executive function (for critical thinking and self-assessment) and working memory (for temporary storage and manipulation of information).

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Occasional Distraction-Free Practice

What it is: Set aside practice time where you eliminate all distractions like music, chatter, or media.

This is good advice for me personally, and probably most others with ADHD. Unless I make a point to NOT do it, I’m usually juggling multiple sensory inputs like music, a screen or two, and my Kindle. It wouldn’t seem strange to me to try to listen to a podcast while practice putting, but doing so obviously limits the amount of attention and focus available for putting practice.

Why it works: Practicing in a quiet environment sharpens your attention and significantly improves your internal focus on the task at hand.

Brain system involved: This technique trains your reticular activating system (RAS), a network of neurons in the brainstem that plays a key role in regulating attention, arousal, and sleep-wake cycles.

Next up in this 4.5-part series will be a collection of 4 tips and drills to assist with emotional regulation and mental recovery. If you’ve experienced anything during a round of disc golf that you later thought of as melting down or freezing up, all of them are worth trying.

To read the first two posts in this series, go to the blog and search “neuroscience,” or just click these links for the first one and the second.

Please subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Instagram (@SchoolOfDiscGolf) to see accompanying videos, disc golf interviews, product reviews, and much more.

harness neuroscience to improve disc golf performance.

Enhance Your Disc Golf Game with these Neuroscience-backed Tips

by frisbeebrain, posted in disc golf, The Science of Disc Golf

I teach and coach all aspects of disc golf, and my favorite clients are the ones who will leave no stone unturned in their quest to reach their full disc golf potential. Although they all eagerly absorb and attempt to follow my instruction, part of leaving no stone unturned is a burning desire to know why, in addition to what.

Any type of scientific or mathematic corroboration that supports a theory I present or results I claim to see are treated like an unmistakable trail of breadcrumbs on the road to progress.

For example, when I started using TECHDISC to work with my clients.

It’s one thing to announce a breakthrough based on my observation, and quite another to show them that their RPM just jumped from 750 to 950 after a suggested tweak.

My clients trust me, but that doesn’t stop the hungry and inquisitive ones from seeking out, let’s say, confirming sources. This led Brett – perhaps the hungriest among them – to seek out more info on my teachings about the mental side of the game, the importance of eye contact, visualization, and other less talked-about aspects of competitive disc golf.

Brett put his faith in me, and he’s gotten great results. He’s very happy. But it was not quite enough for him to see that something worked; he wanted to know why, reasoning that a better understanding will result in better implementation.

I agree! That’s why I’m excited to share with you results of some research he did into disc golf and neuroscience, with the help of AI. I will also add my own corroborating thoughts, and link to past posts and videos where I introduced the same concepts, minus the neuroscience, over the past 18 years. Brett’s data was broken into four sections, so I am going to write 4 blog posts – starting with this one – covering each of the 18 nuggets he unearthed. Thanks Brett!

Part 1: Sharpening Your Aim, Focus, and Execution in Disc Golf

In disc golf, every throw counts, and the difference between success and failure on any given throw often comes down to mental preparation and execution. Drawing on neuroscience, here are four powerful techniques to enhance your aiming, focus, and overall shot execution.

Target Lock (Motor Priming)

What to do: Before putting, stare intently at a single chain link or a tiny spot on the pole itself. Then keep staring at that link until the disc is well out of your hand. Keeping your head stationary helps with this as well, like a camera on a tripod.

The same applies to all throws. If you have trouble gauging how far an upshot is and how hard to throw, try keeping your eyes locked on the whole time, if possible. Same with drives. Your eyes should be on the target except for the fraction of a second it takes to get your torso loaded for the throw, and even then they should be straining to reconnect with the target.

A sequence of seven images showcasing a disc golfer's throwing form in various stages, illustrating the mechanics of a successful throw.
In this seven-part sequence of Paul McBeth driving, you’ll see that on in image 4 do his eyes leave the target, and even then they are as close as his neck will allow.

Why it works: This technique effectively primes your motor cortex, preparing your body for the precise movement required. It helps to subconsciously align your body towards your intended target. You can definitely notice this during a putt, where your eye contact will sometimes cause a steering or power adjustment at the very last millisecond.

I’ve been talking about this one a lot lately, so having bigger words to sound more convincing should speed things up. It seems I did involve science in this post back in 2023, but I’d since forgotten all the details!

Brain system involved: This process engages the visual-motor loop and the premotor cortex, which is crucial for planning and executing voluntary movements.

Breath Control (4–6 Breathing)

What to do: Prior to making key throws, practice a specific breathing pattern: inhale for 4 seconds, then exhale for 6 seconds. Or inhale for six, hold for 7, and exhale for 8. Try both!

When we say “key throws,” we really mean high pressure throws, and this exercise is proven to help when the moment threatens to be too big for us. We may not know we’re tightening up until it’s too late, so think of this as a worthwhile, quick, and simple preventative measure. Use your own competitive history as a guide, like the guy who takes a pill to prevent heartburn before he eats three chili dogs with extra onions. He lived and learned, and can we.

I touched on this subject, sort of, back in 2016, in this post about dealing with pressure putts. I didn’t mention the breathing technique or any other physiological solution, but my technique of removing all context and thinking of only the physical action likely produces a similar calming effect. But this breathing technique is certainly easier to implement.

Why it works: This controlled breathing technique is designed to activate your Vagus nerve, which plays a significant role in regulating internal organ functions. This activation helps to lower your heart rate and, in turn, stabilize your mechanics for a smoother throw.

In other words, it can help you get out of your own way and putt the same with the match on the line as you do in your back yard.

Brain system involved: The effectiveness of this method lies in its ability to influence the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s “rest and digest” functions, promoting a calm state.

Time Dilation via Intentional Slowdown

What to do: Consciously slow down your movements both immediately before (but mind that 30-second rule) and after taking your shots.

Have you ever reflected after a disastrous hole that things seemed to move at a faster speed as they unraveled, or said to someone “I don’t know what I was thinking!”

A scenic view of a disc golf tee area, featuring a grassy patch and a backdrop of trees and rolling hills under a sunset sky.
If it helps you slow down, do like Happy Gilmour and go to your Happy Place.

Why it works: By deliberately slowing your pace, you create an opportunity for your brain to engage more deeply in decision-making. This prevents rushed or reactive movements.

Brain system involved: This technique leverages the prefrontal cortex’s ability to override limbic reactivity. The prefrontal cortex is responsible for executive functions like planning and decision-making, while the limbic system is associated with emotional responses.

I’m pretty sure this is what I was thinking when I posted Mind Control in Disc Golf back in 2021. I didn’t know prefrontal cortex trumps limbic reactivity back then, but from experience I knew we have the ability to anticipate and prepare for emotional spikes

Visualization + Execution (Mental Rehearsal)

What to do: Before physically throwing, vividly picture your entire throw in your mind with as much detail as possible.

This can work using your normal viewpoint (through your own eyes), and also by viewing yourself from an outside-the-body perspective. For instance, I currently first visualize the path want the disc to take, then visualize my body displaying the appropriate mix of balance, power, and timing during the throw, complete with the full follow-through.

I found one blog post from back in 2009 with visualization in the title, and it gives a short first-person (me) account of how powerful this technique can be. Here’s another personal testimony: My biggest margin of victory in a PDGA event (7 strokes, 10 strokes? I forget) was in 1998 at the San Francisco Safari. I used deep visualization on every throw, and I’ve never been so mentally spent after a round.

Why it works: Mental rehearsal is incredibly powerful because it activates the very same neural pathways in your brain that would be used during the actual physical action. This helps to pre-program your body for success.

Brain system involved: Key brain regions involved in this process are the motor cortex (responsible for planning, control, and execution of voluntary movements) and the cerebellum (which plays a role in motor control, coordination, and precision).

Give these tips some thought, and let me know if they help. Part 2 in this series will focus on Skill Learning and Efficient Practice.

TechDisc Talk, Episode 1: Unlocking Disc Golf Performance Metrics

by frisbeebrain, posted in DaLearning Curve, disc golf, disc golf driving, disc golf form, disc golf gifts, disc golf instruction, Disc Golf Lessons, disc golf product reviews, Disc Golf Technique, frisbee golf, techdisc

Are you ready to take your pursuit of better disc golf to the next level? Yeah?

Keep reading!

This post provides additional information to pair with TechDisc Talk Episode #1, the 8-minute video below in which we explain how the mindblowing TechDisc platform changes your game by revolutionizing your understanding of your throws.

After working directly with dozens of clients using a TECHDISC, I don’t hesitate to recommend the product and platform to everyone, with one caveat: It isn’t like Invisalign, magically correcting your over-right (Get it? Over-right/overbite?) by being under your pillow while you sleep. The disc itself can’t help you at all, in fact. But you can’t use The Platform without it.

techdisc, smart disc golf disc, disc golf training
The TECHDISC Launch Monitor Pro measures speed, spin rate, angles, and much more!

If you’re not yet familiar, TechDisc is a hardware/software platform that includes a disc with sensors in the center of a disc that measure the forces and angles during a throw. The data is transmitted to a web app that determines the throw type and calculates six throw metrics and a simulated flight.

The Six Key Metrics: Unlocking the Secrets of Disc Flight

TechDisc tracks six crucial metrics that together with the simulated disc flight numbers mathematically describe a throw: Speed, Spin, Nose Angle, Hyzer Angle, Launch Angle, and Wobble. Understanding these metrics is essential for training and improving your disc golf game. Let’s take a closer look at each one:

Speed: Measured in MPH or KMH, speed indicates how fast the disc moves through the air. Generally, more speed equates to more distance, assuming identical throws. However, higher speed can also make a disc fly more understable.

Spin: Tracked in TechDisc as rotations-per-minute, spin helps the disc remain straighter by resisting turn and fade, potentially increasing distance. Higher spin stabilization creates a more stable flight.

Nose Angle: Also known as “Angle of Attack,” nose angle measures the back-to-front pitch of the disc relative to the oncoming air. A positive nose angle (nose-up) increases lift and drag, causing the disc to travel high and drop quickly. An ideal nose angle for flat distance throws is around -2° to -3°8.

Launch Angle: Launch angle is the angle of the disc’s flight compared to the ground. Ideal launch angles depend on the nose angle and speed of the disc. For instance, for a 60 MPH throw, an 8° to 10° launch angle combined with a -3° to -5° nose angle is optimal for distance. I’ll keep that in mind the next time I throw 60!

Hyzer Angle: Hyzer angle refers to the side-to-side angle of the disc from the thrower’s perspective. It’s the main metric that controls the right and left movement of the disc in flight. Maximum distance throws usually have a slight Anhyzer angle for most of the flight, fading to Hyzer towards the end.

Wobble: Wobble refers to the Off-Axis Torque applied to a disc during a throw. It introduces turbulence, inducing drag and creating a more chaotic, unpredictable flight. Wobble often correlates with low spin rate or low Advance Ratio. Consider how a spinning top’s wobble increases as its spin rate decreases.

The Advance Ratio

Advance Ratio is a calculated (spin times disc radius over speed) TechDisc metric that shows the relationship between spin and speed for a given throw and is a good measure of optimal spin rate. An Advance Ratio of 50% is a good target for a backhand throw, and 30% is a good target for a forehand throw. The body mechanics involved in proper backhand form create more spin than forehand throws, on average.

Utilizing TechDisc for Improvement

Understanding these metrics on a basic level is all that’s required at first. After that, TechDisc will deepen that understanding so you can ask and answer the right questions about your own game. The real power of TechDisc lies in its ability to help you translate this knowledge into tangible improvements on the course. Here’s how:

Identify areas for improvement: By analyzing your TechDisc data, you can pinpoint specific areas where your technique is lacking. For example, if you consistently have low spin rates, you can focus on drills to emphasize snap, like our Asynchronous Drill.

Experiment with different techniques: The TechDisc platform allows you to experiment with different throwing techniques and see how they affect your metrics. This can help you optimize your form for maximum distance and accuracy, and test new theories on how to throw flatter/faster/further.

Track your progress: Since the platform stores all your data, it also allows you to track your progress over time. This provides valuable feedback and motivation to keep you on track.

use both the Techdisc App and Website

The smart disc can connect via Bluetooth to the TechDisc app and an account logged into techdisc.com on a web browser, with captured data stored on the same servers. Both ways of capturing throws and accessing the data have their uses. The app offers portability and several bells and whistles, while the browser interface is device-neutral and houses the Flight Simulator.

The Flight Simulator

TechDisc offers a free Flight Simulator for anyone to use. With it, users can:

  • Create virtual disc profiles with flight numbers and weight, then simulate throws to see how they behave
  • Modify metrics (speed, spin, hyzer angle, etc.) to understand their impact on flight
  • Get concrete, actionable answers to questions like “How close am I to throwing 300 feet?” and “What changes are easiest to make or most impactful?”

As a disc golf instructor and writer, I’m probably more excited about TechDisc than most because it opens up an entirely new avenue for explaining and understanding disc flight.

Understanding disc flight, in and of itself, is half of the equation to achieving longer, straighter throws. Throwing mechanics account for the other half. This means that potentially half of your possible improvement right now can be achieved without getting any better. Only smarter!

Expect more posts that get into specific TechDisc features and uses, and please subscribe to our fledgling YouTube channel to see more of our rough and ready content!

If you’re ready to experience the difference that having a private disc golf coach can make, book your first lesson or sign up for remote coaching today!

DISCERE LUDERE MELIUS

Arm Brain: A Unique School of Disc Golf Term:

by frisbeebrain, posted in backhand, DeLaBlahg, disc golf, disc golf book, disc golf driving, disc golf instruction, Disc Golf Lessons, Jack Tupp

This post is one of a series that explains terminology unique to — or at least originated by — School of Disc Golf. Each term in the series was created by me, many spontaneously during a private lesson as I searched for a new way to explain something to a client.

Think Different

For the first one in the series, I picked a biggie. Those who are familiar with Three Paths to Better Disc Golf know one of those paths involves having a predetermined philosophical approach to the game. Broad concepts a player can use to guide smaller decisions and lead to their best chance to score well.

When I wrote that book I was thinking mainly of strategic concepts, but with thousands more hours of hands-on disc golf instruction under my belt since then, I realize it applies to technique and mechanics as well. Perhaps more so.

“Arm Brain” is a term I use to describe an incorrect mechanical approach most people instinctively take to backhand driving in disc golf. In the same way that early science before Copernicus thought the earth was the center of the universe, most players treat their arm as the core of their drive.

It isn’t, of course. I use other terms in my lessons, like Nucleus, Center Pole Position. Asymmetric Timing, and 180-to-Zero to explain the difference between throwing with the entire body vs. throwing with arm only— why the literal throwing arm plays a relatively minor role in determining whether a player has a figurative Big Arm.

How arm brain came to be

One day during a 1-on-1 lesson, I noticed how my client was successfully achieving the timing and balance we wanted during drills, throwing with the right muscles from the right position, and achieving the results I promised would come. However, a trend developed where after a good throw he would often follow it up with one that were complete mis-throws.

The author with a client in Santa Cruz, CA.

After the pattern became clear, I asked him to describe his thoughts as he set up for the next throw after an especially successful effort. Each time, he described watching the good drive fly, feeling excited about the accomplishment, and wanting to see if he could throw the next drive even further.

Since Sports Psychology 101 is based on “Focus on what you’re trying to do, not what you’re wanting to accomplish” I figured his thoughts had triggered the muscle memory from thousands of Frisbee throws. To explain my thoughts, I mused that he had allowed Arm Brain to enter the realm, kind of like saying Beatlejuice one too many times.

The teaching point was this: It is always a good idea to focus on what’s right in front of you in sports, especially when you’re working on developing a new skill. Thinking about the new mechanics in particular helps prevent “Arm Brain” from jumping in and saying “I can do that!” when you think only of intended results.

Arm Brain can also rear his head at much later stages, as well, in times of mental and physical fatigue or wandering focus. Good driving form takes some work, and if you’re not focused on executing that work Arm Brain can jump in and say “Let me handle this one. It’ll be easier.”

predetermining factors of arm brain

Since that lesson when I made up the term, I broadened the use to describe a related group of reasons why some people have a hard time learning the unique mechanics that are key to throwing as far and accurately as one’s peers Here’s a quick run-down of those reasons:

  • Familiarity with tossing a Frisbee- Think of the stance you assume to play catch with a Frisbee. Your brain is likely very familiar with that stance and the action that follows, and comfortable with its ability to execute that action
  • The “Big Arm” label- This popular misnomer only reinforces the other reasons
  • Proximity to the hand- The hand is important because it holds the disc, right? Therefore focus should be on the thing connected to the hand— or so goes the logic.
  • Eyes on target- The same power-sapping position that is comfortable and familiar for a Frisbee toss is also the posture that provides a clear view of the target with both eyes before throwing— something that isn’t possible at the beginning of a proper full-power drive.
Frisbee tossing involves the hand, wrist, and arm. Driving in disc golf starts with the body’s largest muscles.

how to outsmart and outwit arm brain

You gotta know he’s lurking. You gotta know how to spot him. And you gotta know how to deflect and defeat him.

If you had to work to learn proper driving technique (or are still in the process) vs. it coming naturally right away (and sometimes even then), Arm Brain is lurking. Don’t doubt it.

If you catch yourself thinking about wants and needs rather than mechanics as you set up for shots, and your throws start to lack their normal explosiveness and carry, Arm Brain has likely infiltrated your camp. The best way to banish him is to purposefully focus on elements of your mechanics that most starkly contrast a Frisbee throw, things I focus on in sessions with my clients.

One of my favorite mantras to banish Arm Brain is “Aim with the Body, Throw with the Body,” another unique School of Disc Golf term phrase. Maybe we’ll cover that one next!

disc golf shoes Idio disc golf shoes

New disc golf shoes!

by frisbeebrain, posted in disc golf, disc golf gifts, disc golf product reviews, product reviews
  1. Intro- I needed new dg shoes!
  2. About Idio
  3. About the changes
  4. About my first trial (mention the difference, and what I learned about waiting too long)
  5. Update coming, not real soon.
  6. Links to past posts

A few days ago I received a package in the mail from Idio Sports. It contained a pair of shoes. Specifically, disc golf shoes.

My heart leaped! Both pairs of my current disc golf shoes have warranted replacing for two months, and it has rained nearly every time I tried to play in that period. I even strained a muscle slipping on the wet rocky slopes of DeLaveaga, not fully appreciating what the used-up soles of my old shoes would cost me.

Also, like any other disc golf junkie, the opportunity to use a new piece of equipment for the sport gets me excited. Especially when the products are breaking new ground, like TECHDISC, or in this case shoes designed from scratch for playing disc golf. We’re talking about specialized equipment, similar to soccer cleats or ballet slippers.

That is exactly what Idio is all about. They released their first such product, the Syncrasy, more than three years ago, and they are still blazing a lone trail to what should in time become a thriving sub-category of the athletic shoe market.

A pair of all-black 2024 IDIO Syncrasy disc golf shoes, posed to show disc golf-specific features on the toe cap, heel, and sole.

If you are not yet familiar with the numerous ways Syncrasy is designed differently than other shoes to specifically support disc golf play, here is a quick run-down. Go to the Idio website for more details.

  • A thick rubber toe cap to prevent disc golf-specific wear
  • A “Pivot Zone” built into the heel to assist plant foot pivoting on backhand drives
  • Strategically flexible soles tailored to disc golf situations and stances
  • Waterproof!
  • Lighter than hiking shoes or boots, tougher than trail runners
  • Minimal heel drop for optimal balance on all shots

I found that the first version of the Syncrasy delivered on all of those features, and just as importantly, mine held up great. I’ve posted some images below and will give a quick update to my original review at the end of this post. First, let’s see how the 2024 Syncrasy is different from the original version, and why IDIO says it is already a success.

The first version of Idio’s flagship shoe was a hit, especially when you consider it was conceived and executed from scratch. But I remember the CEO of Idio Sports, Craig Kitchens, telling me then that he expected the shoes would evolve based on customer feedback.

With a new model available now, it was time to put his promise to the test. Mr. Kitchens was ready when I reached out with the following list, and all items were the result of direct or indirect customer feedback.

  • Updated heel counter material for better adhesion of the midsole to the upper
  • Improved buffing and texturing of all bonding surfaces.
  • Improved gluing pressure, heat, and time to ensure proper bonding of components
  • Hardened outsole rubber to improve lifespan while not sacrificing grip.
  • Improved tongue gusseting to keep water from slipping in around the tongue area. 
  • Improved bonding of all TPU printed surfaces such as logo and mudguard. 
  • “Revised tongue material for finer feel of quality. “Although nothing was wrong with it before”

Many of the details listed above have to do with parts of the shoe staying together, and I do remember hearing from some people that that was an issue with the first Syncrasy shoes. I asked Craig about this and his answer deserves to be quoted verbatim:

“We had a great start with our shoes and made improvements across the board in order to address some minor warranty issues that we saw the first year. We maintained a warranty return rate of 3% which is right in line with the major brands, but now with the updates we sit at below 1% for the year. Proving that we are listening to the community and growing as a brand to always provide the best possible product for disc golfers.”

Craig Kitchens, CEO Idio Sports

Kitchens said all of the shoe improvements listed in those bullets above were the result of warranty issues that didn’t even occur at a higher-than-normal rate. That tells me two things: Users clearly validated the design of the shoes — their utility for the sport of disc golf — so Idio focused their upgrades on increased durability, comfort, and quality. I like that.

As you can see in the pictures of my first Syncrasy’s alongside a pair of Saucony Peregrine GTX’s, the Idio shoes didn’t break down in the most common disc golf-related areas for me and most disc golfers. Both shoes’ kept my feet dry until the end, but the soles and sides of the Saucony’s ended up in tatters.

IDIO Syncrasy on the left, Saucony Peregrine GTX on the right. It’s hard to see, but the uppers on both Saucony’s developed holes.

The bottoms are even more telling. The lugs wore normally with use on both shoes, but the Saucony’s developed holes ultimately exposing the Goretex liner.

IDIO Syncrasy on the left, Saucony Peregrine GTX on the right.

Silver Lining to a Rainy Round

It didn’t take long for a chance to test my new black Syncrasy’s in the rain. This shot from the parking lot at DeLaveaga, past the Hole 27 basket to the Hole 1 teepad shows what most of the course looked like.

After that one round, here is what I can say for sure. They felt great, and despite the saturated ground with puddles everywhere and off and on rain and wind, no water got anywhere near my feet. I put it that way because on a day like that, even if the waterproof liner does its job moisture can get in from above. Not the case with these. The tongue looks like billboard vinyl! (I’m sure it’s not).

My other initial observation is, the difference in traction between that round, wet ground and all, and any round during the past two months, was shocking. The soles work great on and off the pad, but that’s not my point.

As mentioned at the start of this post, I recently sustained an injury that is going to sideline me for a while (playing, not coaching). It was an injury that didn’t have to happen!

I was waiting until my current disc golf shoes either fell apart or stopped being waterproof to replace them. I paid little heed to the worn-down lugs because, until the ground was wet enough to be dangerous, I didn’t feel the loss of traction. Even though it was there.

The author trusting his plant foot during the 2023 Enduro Bowl.

The moral of that little tangent is to check your disc golf shoes and make sure they are still adequate to safely play wherever and however you play. I play technical courses and tend to put myself in all kinds of weird throwing positions. The shoes make a huge difference.

Idio disc golf shoes seem made for every terrain except sand (and what shoe is?), and I suggest all disc golfers give them a try, but the main thing to remember is shoes are an important piece of disc golf equipment. Wear something that gives you good traction and support, and pay attention to signs that either is breaking down.

I’ll try to update this post down the road, but it’ll likely be awhile. We’re supposedly done with the rain for the most part here until after the summer. I’ll believe that when I see it!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.

An Executive Summary of UDisc’s Just-released 2024 Disc Golf Growth Report

by frisbeebrain, posted in disc golf, udisc

Disc golf is continuing to grow in every direction and way, and UDisc is getting better and better at collecting and compiling salient and relative information. The producers of “The App for Disc Golf” just released its latest annual Disc Golf Growth report.

I always skim first for the number of disc golf courses in the U.S. vs the number of ball golf courses because of my prediction in the last chapter of my book, The Disc Golf Revolution. I wrote that they’d be close to equal by now, but I wasn’t surprised to see it’s still 15,000 to 10,000 in favor of the Judge Smales’. Where did I think I was living, Finland?! (see below)

Revenue is not mentioned. There are as yet no publicly traded disc golf companies, therefore, no public info. Potential investors in the sport can view statistics related to players (location, frequency of play) as a reflection of the sport’s growth in popularity, and stats relating to growth in the number of courses as a clear sign that decision makers believe in the sport’s value and lasting appeal.

Most statistics are gleaned from regular usage of UDisc’s app as well as a survey it invites all disc golfers to complete. This first one is taken from UDisc’s course directory. As not all of their listings are categorized this isn’t 100 percent accurate, but certainly enough to spot trends.

Credit: UDisc 2024 Disc Golf Growth Report

Of all the categories listed, churches (15 percent) and ski resorts (14) saw the strongest growth. Tied for last is public parks, at 8 percent. Not a huge difference, and also not a reason to think disc golf is about to level off. Nevertheless, why?

For the past several decades, course growth has been largely in the public land sector, driven by players who fell in love with the game yet had no courses nearby. They pushed, attended meetings, organized, raised funds . . . you name it. Whatever it took. Now parks seek to install courses rather than having to be cajoled into it, and private entities of all types see the incredible value (and then, when they play themselves, they understand the appeal).

With more than 15,000 courses worldwide, the odds of a person needing to plant the disc golf flag somewhere new just so they can have a course to play in their own town have gone down. But I believe this phenomenon happens in cycles.

Going back to the UDisc report, we see that there are now disc golf courses in 87 countries. Curacao, Cypress, Madagascar, Greenland, and Mongolia all received their first courses in 2023. Organizations like the Paul McBeth Foundation and Eagles Wings Disc Golf (which I mentioned in a recent post) have made the expansion of disc golf both a mission and a vehicle to support a higher mission. Either way, seeds are being planted in totally new places— places that will likely celebrate low cost, low maintenance recreation.

So what’s gonna happen next in those places? I’ll tell you, because I’ve seen it before.

The same thing that happened in Texas in the 90’s will happen in Mongolia in the years to come. Dzhambul will stumble across the course in Ulaanbaatar, thoroughly enjoy the experience, and upon his return to Darkhan realize he can’t live without it! He won’t rest until Darkhan has a course. And so, the cycle will continue.

Disc golf grows pretty much everywhere a seed is planted, but it has absolutely skyrocketed in one geographic area. That area includes Northern European nations surrounding the Baltic Sea. Disc golf courses in Finland, Sweden, Norway, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania outnumber ball golf courses by 2.5 to 1, led of course by disc golf-crazy Finland.

Credit: UDisc 2024 Disc Golf Growth Report

Take 30 minutes to read the report for yourself; there are some nice anecdotal stories that underscore all the numbers. If you don’t have time, here are a few other tidbits that are highlighted:

  • 33 U.S. states now have 100 courses or more, and Massachusetts and Maryland are almost there. With more than 500, Michigan has snagged second place from California.
  • 89 percent of all courses are still completely free to play. I’m glad to see this stat holding firm.
  • New York City, with 8 million people, still doesn’t have a single course.
  • 89 percent of UDisc’s survey respondents said they regularly share the sport with others

Our Curated Guide to Unique Disc Golf Gifts— and the Gift OF Disc Golf!

by frisbeebrain, posted in disc golf, disc golf book, disc golf gifts, disc golf instruction, Disc Golf Lessons

If you’re reading this, chances are you know someone who is obsessed with disc golf or love to play and share the sport yourself. In both cases we have you covered for unique gifts, and this guide makes it easy to get it exactly right!

Scroll down to see our options, and don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or requests for personalized book inscriptions.

gifts for new and excited disc golfers

The sport of disc golf grew steadily somewhat underground from the mid-70s until 2020— then it roughly doubled during the pandemic. If you know an excited new disc golfer they are likely eager to learn more and get better.

disc golf gifts, disc golf books
School of Disc Golf owner Jack Tupp has written two acclaimed books on disc golf.

why and how to give the gift of disc golf

The most rewarding part of my job is introducing new people to disc golf, and knowing that for some it will become a regular and very positive part of their lives from that day forward. If you love the game as I do, you know exactly what I mean.

Gift-giving occasions can be a great opportunity to turn someone on to disc golf. My book The Disc Golf Revolution is packed with info about disc golf’s past, present, and future, and a private introductory lesson is a great way to learn the essentials quickly.

techdisc, smart disc golf disc, disc golf training
TECHDISC measures speed, spin rate, angles, and much more!

gifts for experienced disc golfers

For those who don’t know, we disc golfers are VERY particular about our equipment. Discs are so specialized these days, forget about trying to pick one your friend will actually throw.

You can go the gift card route — if you do, you can’t do better than one from us or our partner Infinite Discs — but lots of folks enjoy the challenge of selecting perfect and unique gifts. In the world of disc golf, that’s where we come in!

disc golf shoes, disc golf gear

FrisbeeGolf Friday, May 26, 2023

by frisbeebrain, posted in disc golf, frisbee golf, FrisbeeGolf Friday

Last week in the world of disc golf, I played in my club’s weekly bag-tag competition, early A.M. as usual. The “flex start” format allows groups to play throughout the day. Because we use Udisc for scoring, that enables players to keep an eye on the scores not just when they are playing but before and after, as well.

Club members who play in the afternoon can watch the scores to see how the course is playing that day— and make note of the current score to beat.

It works the other way for me and my Breakfast Club buddies. If I shoot at least a decent round I’ll check back occasionally on my phone to see how it holds up. If I shoot a really solid or great round I’ll watch to see how long it stays on top of the leaderboard or at least in the top 5.

This is a pretty great enhancement to casual competition, and thanks to Udisc it gets even better. Their live scoring features let us follow other groups’ scores hole-by-hole, so after playing a clean round (other than that roll-away triple bogey) on a very tough layout, I watched and waited. After moving up and down on this list as new players started and others finished, I ended up pretty much where I expected.

The early morning rounds are special anyway, regardless of the associated competition of bag-tags. Birds are chirping and the course is mostly empty. We’re out there together, three or four of us, eschewing our warm beds and embracing (on this day) a blanket of fog in the air and water dripping from every blade of grass. It’s more than disc golf. As my mom would say, “It’s an adventure!”

Speaking of adventures, a company called Humbo asked me to share their list of the best disc golf destinations in the world. Let me know if you agree. What did they miss? Which ones have you visited?

Bag-tag Thursdays are about growth. One day my friend will emerge from his disc golf cocoon as a beautiful, 950-rated butterfly!

Before I share a few “disc golf makes good” stories, as is my custom, I want to share why I do it. I’m hoping people pick up on the common themes that permeate these accounts of growth in our sport. More often than not they involve people volunteering, donating, and sharing their expertise because they appreciate disc golf so much they feel a kind of obligation to share it.

For instance, thanks Brad Silvers and others the town of Howland, OH has Tiger Town Disc Golf Course, while Trigg County, KY used restaurant tax money and a host of volunteers to build its new 18-hole course. And then there’s Alex Dowley, assistant tennis coach at Albion College in Michigan. He’s doing what he can to grow disc golf there, where will may someday be the HEAD disc golf coach!

For those who didn’t see the cool buy o’ the month, here it is again: The handy-dandy product that serves as a stylish car seat cover, disc golf practice target, and beach towel— just not all at once.

The grommets enable it to be hung up, and the regulation size basket for aiming will hopefully reduce the times someone asks why you’re launching Frisbees at a towel. Get one before they’re gone!

Finally, this week’s disc golf news from the Canadian Front. Moosejaw is getting another 18-hole disc golf course, because one is never enough. My friend Brett in Saskatoon will play them both and report back. Have a great holiday weekend. Let freedom, and disc golf chains ring! And remember those who made it possible.

ohn scoggins

FrisbeeGolf Friday, May 19, 2023

by frisbeebrain, posted in disc golf, disc golf instruction, disc golf newsletter, FrisbeeGolf Friday

Last month in disc golf . . . The Masters Cup and a School of Disc Golf corporate gig forced me to skip several FrisbeeGolf Fridays. I hope it didn’t leave too much of a void in your lives. Onto some news from the front lines of disc golf!

Nothing like watching the world’s best, up close and personal. Photo by Bill Allen from the 2023 Masters Cup presented by DGA. Can you spot me? Hint, I am NOT the spectator with a Ph.D. That would be my friend – and Ohn’s husband – Justin.

A 9-hole course was just installed on the  VA Medical Center campus in Chillicothe, Ohio, and it will soon be a full 18 holes. This idea just makes so much sense, let’s hope the trend continues.

As some know, I am a member of Team Infinite. Over the years, they have come up with some interesting product ideas.

I like this one because it reminds me of bedspread setups I created in hotel rooms over the years to help get in my disc fix. It’s a giant towel with a full-size basket on one side, with grommets for hanging.

Practice putting for an hour in the sun, work up a sweat, then pull the target down and take it to the lake for a swim. I’m in!

Now, I’m not sure why, but many of my favorite stories about disc golf culture these days are coming out of Canada.

From Midland a senior disc golf group called 60 and Hyzer is cleaning up after others, and in Centre Wellington a local man is making a strong case for a publicly-funded course in the township. Even local publication Guelph Today contributed with some solid reporting.

Yet again from Canada — although this practice takes place on courses everywhere — a story about a form of memorial unique to disc golf. Seeing one of these on the course somehow makes me feel sad and good at the same time.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the globe, the Phillipine News Agency just announced the first disc golf course in Manila, where the sport can be played year-round. Expect big things!

Have you checked out our new booking site? It’s also a great place to pick up unique disc golf gifts and merch. There’s not a lot there yet, but you can find some clearance items you won’t find anywhere else. There is even a shirt from the show Discmasters that I hosted with Nate, Val, and Avery back in 2011.

Finally, for those who have been asking, Idio just announced the release of the next generation of their Syncrasy disc golf shoes. They also acknowledged some customer feedback and listed specific improvements made to the new shoes. According to the company, “We have been listening and adapting. This year we have improved our bonding process, hardened the rubber for longer life, and improved on our waterproofing.”

My tester Syncrasys have indeed begun to let some water in after an epically wet winter, but otherwise they’ve held up well. I look forward to seeing the new ones and appreciate that is never satisfied.

That’s enough for now. Disc golf season is in full swing everywhere, so get out there and enjoy!