How to Throw Darts

So, you've started playing darts, and you've learned the basics of how to throw darts. You might even be getting quite good at it...perhaps even thinking about joining a league. If you're getting serious about darts, it may be time to start learning how to take your throwing action to the next level.

Dart-Throwing Basics

Don't forget, the key to throwing well is consistency. Everyone throws with different styles and different grips, but your throwing action should always be comfortable and consistent. While the following tips will take your game to a more expert level, never forget the simple mechanics that build a good dart action. Try a variety of throwing styles before deciding on the one that suits you best, then practice and practice until your individual throwing action becomes second nature.

Minimize Your Movement

Only the throwing arm moves when you throw a dart. Don't be influenced by other people who may be moving all parts of their body; they may have developed that style on their own, but it's not recommended.

Your shoulder is one of the most important parts of the body when throwing darts, as it has to stay still. Your darts will stray off course if your shoulder is moving. It sounds simple, but it is key to remember this. A steady action is necessary for success in front of the dart board, so practice throwing while staying very conscious about your arm. Try and keep everything still except the throwing arm.

Stay Consistent on the Release

Something that is hotly debated amongst darts players all the over the world is when to release the dart in your throw. Some people throw early in their action, while others leave it until the very last second. So when do you do it? Well, the answer is simple—you find the method that suits you. Work it out in practice by tinkering with the time you release the dart. Notice at which point in the action it is most comfortable for you to release the dart, and, as with other aspects of your throwing method, it will become second nature with practice.

Snap That Wrist

When darts players refer to "snapping the wrist," they mean crisply releasing the dart. You may see some people simply letting the dart float out of their hand. This is without a doubt the wrong way to do it. One of the most important tips in successful dart playing is to throw with some force. A nice smooth, clean throw coupled with snapping your wrist like a whip when you release will combine to make a superb throwing action.

Follow Through

Always follow through that throw; never let it finish before your arm has completed its job. Great players in any sport that involves a throwing arm do the same, as in football or basketball. A good rule to follow is that your fingers should be pointing to the floor when your action is complete; if they're pointing upwards then you aren't following through correctly.

Again, there are many things you can do to ensure a good throwing action. What these pointers will do, however, is ensure that you are on the road to success.