The A.D.D. Challenge in Disc Golf

When I drive a backhand off the tee, if the throw isn’t good, it’s likely because I didn’t solidly plant my front foot before pulling my arm through.

In fact, I’d guess that 90% of the time, if I throw poorly, it’s because I rushed the throw (and didn’t solidly plant my front foot).

The obvious answer of course is to plant that front foot, then start pulling the disc through. But easier said than done…

Part of the reason we rush our throws is performance anxiety. We want so badly to “do it” right. But adrenalin gets in the way and we just go charging ahead.

But also, I’m very much ADD/ADHD. It’s hard for me to stay focused and concentrating. I can go into a throw knowing that I want to concentrate on planting my front foot. I can even start off my run-up by telling myself to plant that front foot. But then, a half-second becomes a long time.

Essentially, somewhere in between starting the throw and releasing the disc, my mind may wander slightly. And then I just don’t fully pay attention to that all-important front foot plant.

Ideally, sheer muscle memory would train me better. I’d plant that front foot with a fierce, automatic stomp. But sometimes I still rush too much.

If there’s a point to this blog post, it’s two things:

One. Plant that front foot solidly in order to drive your backhand.

Two. If you’re also A.D.D., and you have trouble with concentration and “staying in the moment,” you’re not alone. A lot of us struggle with slowing down internally, paying attention, staying focused, etc.

But keep throwing. And practice helps.

Hope springs eternal.