Disc golf is similar to 'ball' golf; instead of using golf clubs and balls aiming for a hole, disc golf players use disc golf discs and aim for a specialty basket which is a pole extending up from the ground with chains where the disc ultimately is thrown.

The object of the game is to complete each hole in the fewest number of throws, starting from the tee and finishing with the disc coming to rest in the basket.

Generally, a course is made up of 9 or 18 holes. Players start at hole one and complete the course in order, playing through to the last hole. The player with the lowest total cumulative throws wins. Disc golf differs from 'ball' golf in some very distinct ways. Disc golf courses can use a wide variety of terrain. Land not suitable for other activities or development is sometimes the perfect area for a disc golf course.

Disc golf is a lifetime fitness sport because it is easy to learn, a healthy activity, and accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. If you can throw a Frisbee® and you like to have fun, you can play disc golf.

There are over 7,500 disc golf courses in the United States and millions of people who have played the game. Since 1976, there have been over 100,000 members of the Professional Disc Golf Association and players can compete in more than 3,500 sanctioned tournaments annually (Disc Golf Association).

Four main types.

1. Putter [speed 1-3] - Putt and Approach discs are designed specifically for putting and making short controlled shots. Putt and Approach discs come in a variety of shapes so each player’s unique putting style and grip preferences can be accommodated. These discs offer players of all skill levels predictability and performance around the target.
2. Mid-Range [speed 4, 5] - Mid-Range Discs are designed to provide accuracy and control for a wide variety of shots. Versatile discs are effective in many situations, from drives and mid-range shots, to approaches and even putting matching the requirements of a wide range of players using any number of throwing techniques.
3. Fairway Driver [speed 6-9]- Fairway Drivers deliver confidence in both driving and approach. Fairway Drivers provide nearly the same distance as Distance Drivers, but are easier to control and throw consistently with accuracy. Newer players will find these discs easy to control.
4. Distance Driver [speed 10-14]- Made for maximum Distance. The The R-Pro Boss by Innova currently holds the world distance record of 1108 feet (338 M) thrown by David Wiggins Jr.

The way a disc flies.

Speed [1-14] - Speed is the rate at which a disc can travel through the air. Speed 14 Distance Drivers are the fastest, having the PDGA maximum legal wing width. Faster discs cut into the wind with less effort and are best when throwing up wind. Slower discs take more power to throw upwind, but they’re easier to throw more accurately and may actually go farther downwind. High speed discs are not recommended for beginners as they require more power to fly properly.

Glide [1-7] - Glide describes the discs ability to maintain loft during flight; higher the number, better loft. Discs with more glide are best for new players, and for producing maximum distance. Beginners wanting more distance should choose discs with more glide. Discs with less glide are more accurate in high wind situations.

Turn [+1 to -5] - The tendency of a disc to turn over or bank to the right (for Right Handed Back Hand [RHBH] throws) during the initial part of the flight is called High Speed Turn. A disc with a +1 rating is most resistant to turning over, while a -5 rating will turn the most. Discs rated -3 to -5 make good roller discs. Discs with less turn are more accurate in the wind. Discs with more turn are easier to throw for beginners.

Fade [0-5] - The discs tendency to hook left (for RHBH throws) at the end of the flight is called Low Speed Fade. Fade is rated from 0 to 5. A disc rated 0 will finish straightest, while a disc rated 5 will hook hard at the end of the flight. High fade discs are usually used for Spike and Skip shots.