Master the winning throw: expert tips on how to throw darts
Ready to hit the bullseye and become a darts superstar? Darts is an entetaining game that's way more than just tossing arrows; it's about skill, a little bit of strategy and a whole lot of fun! Whether you're just starting out or want to impress your friends and family with your amazing throws, learning how to throw darts like a pro is easier than you think.
This guide is your secret weapon to mastering the dartboard. We'll walk you through everything, step by step, to help you make every throw count!
First Things First: How Does Darts Work?
Before we dive into those throwing techniques, let's quickly talk about the basics. So, how does darts work in practice? It's simple: you toss small, pointy darts at a big, round board.
The board has different sections, each with its own score and your goal is usually to count down from a starting number, like 501 or 301, to exactly zero. The first person to hit zero wins that round, called a "leg"! Easy peasy, right?
Your Stance and Balance
Every great throw starts with a super stable base. Think of your stance as your personal launching pad!
Where to Stand: How Far Back for Darts?
Good news, there's a special line!
The throwing line in darts, also known as the oche (it rhymes with hockey), is 7 feet 9.25 inches (2.37 meters) away from the dartboard.
You can stand anywhere behind this line, but most dart champs like to get as close as they can without stepping on it.
Finding Your Happy Place
There are two main ways to stand, and you can pick what feels best for you:
● The ‘Face On’ Stance: You stand straight, facing the board, with both feet a little bit apart. This can feel really steady.
● The ‘Side On’ Stance: If you throw with your right hand, your right foot will be a little forward, pointing towards the board. If you're a lefty, your left foot goes forward! Your other foot is behind you for balance. Lots of pros love this one because it helps your arm line up perfectly with the target.
No matter which stance you choose, make sure you feel comfy and balanced. Your weight should be mostly on your front foot.
Hold It Right: How to Hold Your Darts
This is where your dart meets your hand, and it's all about finding what feels natural for how to hold your darts.
● Grip: The big secret? Hold the dart nice and firm, but not too tight, as you want your hand and arm to feel relaxed, like a spring.
● Sweet Spot: Feel for the dart's balance point, usually around the middle of the barrel (the main part of the dart). Holding it there helps it fly super straight.
● Stay Relaxed: A super-tight grip is a no-go. Keep it gentle so the dart can glide smoothly from your fingers.
Play around with different ways to hold it until you find your perfect grip. Everyone's is a little different!
The Throwing Motion
Now for the fun part: sending that dart flying. Think of your throw as one smooth, graceful move, not a bunch of little jerks.
Get Ready, Set, Aim
Before you even swing, bring the dart up so it's right in front of your eye, lining it up with where you want to hit. Your elbow should be pointing towards the board, and your wrist might be bent back a tiny bit.
Back and Forth: The Smooth Swing
From your aiming spot, gently bring the dart back. How far back? That's up to you! Some people have a short, quick backswing, while others bring it back almost to their shoulder. The most important thing is that it feels controlled and natural, like you're loading a spring.
The Perfect Release
As you swing your arm forward, extend your elbow straight out towards the board. The dart should leave your hand right at the very top of your forward swing, just before your arm starts to drop.
● Follow Through: This is HUGE! After the dart leaves your hand, keep your arm reaching out towards the board. Imagine you're trying to give the dartboard a high-five with your fingertips. This helps the dart fly straight and true.
● Wrist Flick: Many dart experts add a little "wrist snap" right as the dart leaves their hand. It gives the dart extra zing and helps it stick perfectly. Don't force it – it should feel like a natural part of your follow-through.
Common Dart Throwing Blunders to Avoid
Even the pros make mistakes! Here are some common ones to watch out for when you're learning how to throw darts better:
● Squeezing Too Hard: A super-tight grip makes your arm tense and your throws wobbly. Lighten up!
● Stopping Short: Not following through makes your dart drop early. Keep that arm reaching!
● Looking Away: Keep your eyes glued to the target until your dart is almost there.
● Too Much Thinking: Yes, technique matters, but don't overthink every tiny detail. Relax and have fun!
● Changing Your Style All the Time: Pick a technique and stick with it for a while. Practice builds consistency!
Level Up Your Game: How to Get Better at Darts
Want to know how to get better at darts? It's all about practice, practice, practice!
● Try aiming for the same number repeatedly. It's like building muscle memory for your arm!
● Focus on hitting specific, tricky spots like the "doubles" (the outer ring) and "trebles" (the inner ring). These are key for scoring big!
● Play Games! The best way to improve is to play actual games. Learn the rules for playing darts for different game types, like 501, and challenge yourself.
● If you can, record your throws on your phone. You might spot things you didn't even realise you were doing!
● A few relaxed throws before a big game can get your arm and mind ready to rock.
Darts Dictionary: Fun Terms in Darts!
As you play more, you'll hear some cool terms in darts. Here are a few to get you started:
● Oche: That special throwing line!
● Leg: One complete game (like a single round of 501).
● Set: A group of legs, usually used in professional matches.
● Bust: Oh no! You've gone over the score you needed to finish the leg. You have to wait for your next turn to try again.
● Double: The thin outer ring. Hit a number here, and it's worth double! Super important for finishing games.
● Treble (or Triple): The thin inner ring. Hit a number here, and it's worth triple! Great for racking up points.
● Bullseye: The small circle right in the middle, usually worth 50 points.
● Outer Bull (or Single Bull): The ring around the bullseye, usually worth 25 points.
Ready to Throw? Visit Hollywood Bowl!
Now that you're armed with these expert tips on how to throw darts, why not put them to the test?
Check out our list of Hollywood Bowl locations that have interactive darts! It's a super cool, high-tech way to practice your aim and have an absolute blast with everyone. Imagine the dartboard coming alive with fun games and challenges, it's the perfect spot to show off your new skills and make some amazing memories!
Come on down and master your winning throw. We can't wait to see you hit that bullseye!
