How to Throw an Anhyzer, Hyzer, and Roller Shots

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How to Throw an Anhyzer, Hyzer, and Roller Shots in Disc Golf

Disc golf is more than just throwing a disc toward a basket—it\’s a game of precision, technique, and strategy. Understanding how to manipulate a disc\’s flight path can help you tackle complex course layouts, avoid obstacles, and lower your scores. Three fundamental shot types every disc golfer should master are the hyzer, anhyzer, and roller shots. Each offers unique advantages and allows you to approach holes with different strategies.

This in-depth guide will break down the mechanics, strategies, and nuances behind these shots, ensuring you not only understand how to execute them but also when and why to use each one. With practice and the right techniques, you\’ll gain control over the disc in ways you never thought possible.

1. Understanding Disc Golf Flight Angles

Before diving into specific throws, it’s crucial to understand disc golf flight angles, as they dictate how a disc behaves in the air. These angles are the foundation for executing hyzer, anhyzer, and roller shots effectively.

1.1 Flat Release

A flat release refers to throwing the disc with the top parallel to the ground. This allows the disc to fly according to its natural flight ratings (speed, glide, turn, and fade). Flat throws are often used for straight shots or when you want the disc to fly as intended without any forced curve.

When to use flat releases:

  • Straight fairways with minimal obstacles.
  • Controlled approaches to the basket.
  • When testing a new disc to understand its flight characteristics.

1.2 Hyzer Angle

A hyzer angle means the disc is released with the outer edge (left side for right-handed backhand—RHBH) tilted downward. This causes the disc to naturally curve left (for RHBH throws) due to the aerodynamic forces at play.

Key aspects of hyzer angles:

  • The more you angle the disc, the sharper the curve.
  • Overstable discs enhance the hyzer effect.
  • Consistent and predictable fades make hyzers ideal for controlled shots.

1.3 Anhyzer Angle

An anhyzer angle is the opposite of hyzer. The outer edge (right side for RHBH) is tilted downward upon release, causing the disc to turn to the right. The amount of turn depends on the angle, disc stability, and throwing power.

Key aspects of anhyzer angles:

  • Understable discs hold the anhyzer angle longer.
  • Anhyzer throws can be used for sweeping right-hand curves.
  • Too much anhyzer angle can result in the disc \”turning over\” and diving.

1.4 Understanding Disc Stability

Disc stability plays a vital role in how your hyzer, anhyzer, and roller shots behave.

  • Overstable Discs (e.g., Innova Firebird): Resist turning right and have a strong left fade (for RHBH).
  • Stable Discs (e.g., Discraft Buzzz): Fly relatively straight with minimal turn or fade.
  • Understable Discs (e.g., Innova Roadrunner): Turn right more easily and are ideal for anhyzers and rollers.

Knowing how stability interacts with release angles will help you control the disc more effectively.

2. What is a Hyzer Throw?

A hyzer is one of the most fundamental shots in disc golf, known for its predictable and consistent flight path. For right-handed backhand (RHBH) throwers, the disc curves left, while for left-handed or forehand throwers, it curves right.

2.1 Mechanics of a Hyzer

Executing a perfect hyzer throw requires mastering grip, stance, angle control, and follow-through.

Step-by-Step Hyzer Technique:

  • Grip
    • Use a power grip for maximum distance or a fan grip for controlled approach shots.
    • Ensure the disc is held firmly but without tension that could hinder wrist snap.
  • Stance and Footwork
    • For RHBH, use an X-step approach to generate momentum.
    • Lead with your hips and shoulders to ensure a smooth, controlled motion.
    • Plant your lead foot at a slight angle to promote a natural hyzer release.
  • Release Angle
    • Tilt the disc with the outer edge down (left side down for RHBH).
    • Keep your wrist locked to maintain the angle throughout the throw.
    • Focus on releasing at the correct point in your throwing arc to maximize control.
  • Follow-Through
    • Allow your arm to continue its natural swing across your body.
    • Maintain balance to ensure consistent release angles.
    • A full follow-through helps maximize spin and distance.

Pro Tip: Experiment with slight variations in the hyzer angle to find the perfect balance between distance and curve.

2.2 When to Use a Hyzer

  • Navigating Doglegs: Perfect for holes that curve sharply to the left (for RHBH).
  • Avoiding Obstacles: Use hyzers to curve around trees or other obstacles.
  • Predictable Landings: Hyzers often land on the edge and skip forward, offering more control.

Examples of Hyzer Shots:

  • Spike Hyzer: Thrown high with a steep hyzer angle, causing the disc to dive hard into the ground.
  • Hyzer Flips: Using an understable disc, thrown on a hyzer angle, but flipping to flat and flying straight.

2.3 Common Mistakes with Hyzer Throws

  • Over-Hyzered Throws
    • Too much angle causes early fades and short distances.
  • Underpowered Throws
    • Failing to generate enough spin and speed results in the disc stalling mid-flight.
  • Poor Angle Control
    • Inconsistent wrist angles lead to unintended anhyzer or flat releases.

3. What is an Anhyzer Throw?

The anhyzer is an essential shot that allows the disc to curve in the opposite direction of a hyzer. For RHBH throwers, it causes the disc to turn right, making it ideal for certain fairway layouts and creative lines.

3.1 Mechanics of an Anhyzer

Executing an anhyzer requires precise control over wrist angles and follow-through.

Step-by-Step Anhyzer Technique:

  • Grip
    • Use the same grip as for a hyzer but focus on wrist flexibility for angle control.
  • Stance and Footwork
    • Maintain a balanced stance, as anhyzer angles can easily result in off-balance throws.
    • The X-step approach remains consistent but adjust your body lean to accommodate the anhyzer release.
  • Release Angle
    • Tilt the disc with the inner edge down (right side down for RHBH).
    • Keep your wrist loose but controlled to maintain the anhyzer angle throughout the throw.
  • Follow-Through
    • Your arm will naturally follow a higher arc due to the anhyzer angle.
    • Ensure a smooth, complete follow-through to maintain disc spin and flight consistency.

Pro Tip: Use understable discs for easier, more controlled anhyzer flights.

3.2 When to Use an Anhyzer

  • Right-Turning Fairways: Ideal for holes that curve right for RHBH players.
  • Escape Shots: Use anhyzers to curve around tight gaps or obstacles.
  • Long Turnovers: For controlled, sweeping right-hand turns.

Examples of Anhyzer Shots:

  • Turnover Shot: Thrown with a slight anhyzer angle, allowing the disc to turn right and hold the line.
  • S-Curve: Starting with an anhyzer angle, using an overstable disc that flexes back left.

3.3 Common Mistakes with Anhyzer Throws

  • Over-Turning
    • Releasing with too much angle causes the disc to dive right uncontrollably.
  • Early Releases
    • Releasing the disc too soon results in a flat or shallow anhyzer.
  • Disc Selection Errors
    • Using overstable discs causes the disc to fight out of the anhyzer too quickly.

4. Mastering Roller Shots

The roller is an advanced technique that involves throwing the disc so it lands on its edge and rolls along the ground. It’s a versatile shot that can help navigate tight fairways or achieve maximum distance.

4.1 Mechanics of a Roller

Step-by-Step Backhand Roller Technique:

  • Grip
    • Use a power grip to maximize spin.
  • Stance and Footwork
    • Similar to an anhyzer but with an even more exaggerated angle.
    • Focus on body balance to prevent awkward releases.
  • Release Angle
    • Release the disc at a steep anhyzer angle (around 45 degrees or more).
    • Aim high to allow the disc to flip and land on its edge.
  • Follow-Through
    • Maintain an upward follow-through to maximize distance and spin.

Pro Tip: Understable discs make roller shots easier, as they flip over more naturally.

4.2 Types of Rollers

  • Backhand Roller: Released on a steep anhyzer angle, flipping to its edge and rolling.
  • Forehand Roller: Thrown with a sidearm flick, rolling in the opposite direction of a backhand roller.
  • Cut Roller: Released with a sharp angle that causes the disc to \”cut\” hard to one side.
  • Sky Roller: Thrown high into the air before landing steeply to roll.

4.3 When to Use a Roller

  • Max Distance: On open fairways where rollers can travel further than air shots.
  • Escape Shots: Rolling under low-hanging branches or tight gaps.
  • Tight Fairways: Navigating long, narrow gaps with less obstruction.

4.4 Common Mistakes with Roller Throws

  • Incorrect Angle
    • Too little anhyzer causes the disc to land flat or hyzer out.
  • Overstable Disc Choice
    • Overstable discs resist flipping over, making them poor choices for rollers.
  • Terrain Misjudgment
    • Uneven or rough terrain can derail rollers, leading to unpredictable paths.

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5. Choosing the Right Disc

Selecting the right disc is critical when executing hyzer, anhyzer, and roller shots. Each disc has unique flight characteristics based on its speed, glide, turn, and fade ratings, and choosing the appropriate disc can significantly impact your success with these shot types.

5.1 Understanding Flight Ratings

Disc golf discs are rated using four key metrics:

  • Speed (1-14): Indicates how fast the disc needs to be thrown to achieve its intended flight. Higher-speed discs require more power.
  • Glide (1-7): Represents the disc’s ability to stay aloft. Discs with higher glide are useful for distance shots.
  • Turn (-5 to +1): Describes how much the disc will turn right (for RHBH) during the high-speed portion of the flight. Negative numbers indicate more turn.
  • Fade (0-5): Refers to how much the disc will hook left (for RHBH) at the end of its flight. Higher fade ratings result in stronger finishing curves.

Understanding these ratings helps you select the right disc for each shot type.

5.2 Best Discs for Hyzer Throws

  • Overstable Discs excel for hyzer shots because they naturally want to finish left (for RHBH).
  • Examples:
    • Innova Firebird (9 | 3 | 0 | 4)
    • Discraft Predator (9 | 4 | 0 | 4)
    • Dynamic Discs Justice (5 | 1 | 0.5 | 4) — great for hyzer approaches

When to Use:

  • Spike hyzers that require a steep dive.
  • Reliable left-fading shots that need a consistent finish.

5.3 Best Discs for Anhyzer Throws

  • Understable Discs are ideal for anhyzer shots as they hold the right-turning line longer.
  • Examples:
    • Innova Roadrunner (9 | 5 | -4 | 1)
    • Discraft Heat (9 | 6 | -3 | 1)
    • Latitude 64 Diamond (8 | 6 | -3 | 1) — great for beginners

When to Use:

  • Long, right-turning fairways.
  • Controlled turnover shots that need to avoid obstacles.

5.4 Best Discs for Roller Shots

  • High-Turn, Low-Fade Discs are best for roller shots, as they flip onto their edge and roll effectively.
  • Examples:
    • Innova Sidewinder (9 | 5 | -3 | 1)
    • Latitude 64 Cutlass (13 | 5 | -2 | 3)
    • MVP Orbital (11 | 5 | -4.5 | 1)

When to Use:

  • Open fairways for maximum distance.
  • Escape shots under low branches.

6. Practice Drills for Mastery

Mastering hyzer, anhyzer, and roller shots requires consistent practice. Incorporating specific drills into your training regimen will help improve angle control, distance, and accuracy.

6.1 Angle Control Drill

Objective: Improve your ability to control hyzer and anhyzer angles.

Setup:

  • Use an open field.
  • Place cones or markers at varying angles (e.g., 45° left, straight, 45° right).

Execution:

  • Throw hyzers, aiming to match the left-angled markers.
  • Throw anhyzers toward the right-angled markers.
  • Focus on maintaining consistent wrist angles through the release.

Tips:

  • Use discs of varying stability to understand their behavior.
  • Record your throws to analyze angle consistency.

6.2 Roller Accuracy Drill

Objective: Improve the accuracy and consistency of roller shots.

Setup:

  • Find a flat, open field.
  • Place two cones 20-30 feet apart to create a \”goal\” zone.

Execution:

  • Attempt to roll the disc between the cones.
  • Gradually increase distance while maintaining accuracy.
  • Experiment with different release angles to see how they affect roll paths.

Tips:

  • Focus on the disc’s landing angle.
  • Use understable discs for easier rollovers.

6.3 Distance Control Drill

Objective: Improve distance control with hyzer and anhyzer throws.

Setup:

  • Place distance markers at 100, 150, and 200 feet.

Execution:

  • Throw hyzer shots aiming for each distance marker.
  • Repeat with anhyzer throws.
  • Focus on adjusting power and angle to hit targets.

Tips:

  • Use mid-range discs for shorter distances.
  • Practice both backhand and forehand throws.

6.4 Field Work Sessions

Objective: Build muscle memory and consistency.

Setup:

  • Use a large, open field.
  • Bring a variety of discs.

Execution:

  • Dedicate sessions to one shot type (e.g., only hyzers).
  • Throw 10-15 discs in succession, focusing on form and release angles.
  • Gradually incorporate different shot types as you improve.

Tips:

  • Record sessions for form analysis.
  • Focus on smooth, consistent releases.

7. Pro Tips for Advanced Players

Once you’ve mastered the basics, these advanced tips can help elevate your game and give you more control over hyzer, anhyzer, and roller shots.

7.1 Mixing Angles Mid-Flight

  • Flex Shots: Start with an anhyzer angle using an overstable disc, allowing it to \”flex\” back left mid-flight. Great for gaining extra distance on curved fairways.
  • Hyzer Flips: Start with a hyzer angle using an understable disc that flips to flat and flies straight before finishing with a gentle fade.

7.2 Wind Considerations

  • Hyzer Shots:
    • Tailwinds cause hyzers to drop faster.
    • Headwinds help keep hyzers aloft longer.
  • Anhyzer Shots:
    • Tailwinds make anhyzers turn more sharply.
    • Headwinds can flatten an anhyzer quickly.
  • Rollers:
    • Tailwinds help rollers carry further.
    • Headwinds can cause rollers to stand up and veer off course.

7.3 Body Mechanics

  • Hip Rotation: Proper hip rotation generates more power and spin.
  • Weight Transfer: Shift your weight from your back foot to your front foot during the throw for maximum power.
  • Wrist Snap: A strong wrist snap at the point of release increases spin and flight control.

7.4 Mental Game

  • Visualization: Before each shot, visualize the entire flight path, including how the disc will land and react.
  • Shot Selection: Choose the shot type that minimizes risk while maximizing potential rewards.
  • Adaptability: Stay flexible and adjust your strategy based on course conditions.

8. Final Thoughts

Mastering hyzer, anhyzer, and roller shots can elevate your disc golf game to new heights. Each shot offers unique advantages, allowing you to navigate challenging course layouts and adapt to varying conditions.

  • Hyzer Throws provide reliable, predictable fades and are excellent for navigating left-curving fairways.
  • Anhyzer Throws allow for creative right-turning lines and are perfect for turnover shots and escape plays.
  • Roller Shots offer unparalleled distance and versatility, especially in open fields or when navigating under obstacles.

By understanding the mechanics, practicing diligently, and making smart disc selections, you’ll gain the confidence to use these shots effectively during competitive play. Remember, disc golf is as much about strategy and creativity as it is about technical skill—so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.

Happy disc golfing!

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