In the world of disc golf, mastering the hyzer flip can add another level of expertise to your game. Not only can this shot revolutionize your play in the woods, but it also increases your control on tight lines and adds extra distance to your throws, especially for lower-power players.
In this hyzer flip disc golf guide, we’ll break down this popular shot, exploring what it is, when to use it, and how to execute it in three easy steps.
But first..
What is a Hyzer Flip in Disc Golf?
A hyzer flip in disc golf is essentially an understable disc thrown on a hyzer angle. The simplicity of this definition, however, belies the finesse and skill required to execute it correctly.
Thrown with a right-hand backhand (RHBH), a hyzer release counteracts an understable disc’s tendency to turn to the right. Instead, the disc will flip to a flat position (“flip to flat”) and then fly straight. Depending on the disc’s understability, it may even drift to the right towards the end of its flight, commonly known as a “hyzerflip to turn” shot.
The Hyzer Flip is not about throwing hard, but rather about throwing smooth. The goal is to take full advantage of the disc’s understability. To achieve this, three factors need to be perfectly balanced: disc stability, degree of hyzer angle, and arm speed. While this might sound complicated, with practice, it becomes much easier.
Similarities and Differences from Other Throws
Hyzer Flips can be easily confused with other disc golf throws, such as the S Shot or the Flex Shot. However, there’s a distinct difference in the unique release angle and the specific type of disc required for the Hyzer Flip.
Three Essentials for the Hyzer Flip
The three key elements for executing a perfect hyzer flip are the hyzer angle, an understable disc, and arm speed.
Hyzer
Hyzer refers to the release angle for the disc. Throwing the disc on a hyzer angle off the teepad is the first step to mastering the hyzer flip. One needs to ensure a consistent hyzer angle.
If your throws are consistently on anhyzer, it might be a sign that you’re trying to throw discs that are too overstable for your arm speed.
Understable Disc
The second element for a hyzer flip is an understable disc. Understability allows the disc to flip over quickly during flight, which is crucial for the Hyzer Flip.
The trick is to get your most understable disc and throw it on hyzer, starting slow to see whether it will flip to flat. This practice also helps identify the correct combination of angle and power needed for the desired flight.
Most disc golf brands make an understable fairway/distance driver, and there are even some companies like Axiom Discs that are known for producing them.
Arm Speed
Finally, arm speed is vital for executing a Hyzer Flip. It’s not about throwing hard but rather about maintaining a smooth throw.
A disc that is too overstable for your arm speed will hyzer out and never flip up, while a very understable disc thrown with too little hyzer or too much power will flip all the way over and roll.
When to Use a Hyzer Flip
The Hyzer Flip is the go-to shot when you want your disc to fly perfectly straight or when you need to cover a large distance.
Throwing Your Disc Perfectly Straight
The Hyzer Flip is a boon when you need your disc to fly straight, particularly in tight, wooded courses or tunnel shots. The unique flight pattern of the Hyzer Flip allows it to fly straight with just a slight fade at the end.
Covering Large Distances
The Hyzer Flip also excels in covering large distances, especially for lower power players. Instead of trying to force an overstable disc to travel a large distance, you can rely on the understable disc’s natural ability to glide and stay in the air to cover more ground. The slow flip and ride of a Hyzer Flip eats up distance and reduces the disc’s tendency to flip over.
How to Hyzer Flip in 3 Easy Steps
Step 1: Choose the Right Disc
The first step in throwing a Hyzer Flip is choosing the right disc. An understable disc with a high glide rating is ideal.
Disc selection can often be the easiest factor to modify when learning this shot. If a disc isn’t flipping to flat, then opt for a more understable disc.
Step 2: Master the Technique
Perfecting the Hyzer Flip requires a thorough understanding of your throw. You need to hit a consistent hyzer angle, have the right arm speed, and make sure your grip, stance, and throw are all correct. Start slowly, experimenting with different speeds and more or less hyzer. Practice with different footwork can also be beneficial, as a standstill hyzer flip is a powerful tool.
Step 3: Hyzer and Follow Through
Once you’ve got the right disc and the proper technique, it’s time to throw. Release the disc on a hyzer line and follow through. If executed correctly, the disc should flip to flat and fly straight, possibly even drift to the right at the end of its flight.
Putting It All Together..
The Hyzer Flip can open up a new world of shots in your disc golf arsenal. With the right disc, proper technique, and some practice, you can master this throw and significantly enhance your game. Whether you’re hitting tight lines, throwing on wooded courses (like these courses in Memphis), or trying to cover more distance, the Hyzer Flip provides accuracy with less power and a softer landing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of disc is best for a Hyzer Flip? An understable disc with a high glide rating is best for a Hyzer Flip.
- Can I use a Hyzer Flip in any situation during a disc golf game? The Hyzer Flip is best used when you want your disc to fly straight or cover large distances.
- What is the difference between a Hyzer Flip and an S Shot? While both shots have similar flight paths, the Hyzer Flip requires a hyzer angle release and an understable disc.
- Do I need any special technique to execute a Hyzer Flip? The Hyzer Flip requires a consistent hyzer angle release, the right understable disc, and a smooth throw with adequate arm speed.
- How can I practice the Hyzer Flip? Start by practicing throwing your most understable disc on a hyzer angle, adjusting the speed and angle until you find the right balance. It can also be beneficial to experiment with different footwork.