How to Improve at Darts: Techniques and Exercises
You play darts regularly, but your level is stagnating? In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the mechanics of the perfect throw and give you the best training exercises.
The Fundamentals: Pro Technique
Before thinking about strategy, you need to build a reliable mechanism. Consistency is the key to improvement.
The Stance: Your Anchor
Everything starts at the ground. Your balance determines the dart's trajectory.
- If you're right-handed, your right foot should be in front (and vice versa for left-handers).
- Your throwing arm shoulder should be directed towards the target (45-degree position).
- 70 to 80% of your weight should rest on your front leg. This leg is your "anchor".
The Grip
Imagine you're holding a bird: firm enough so it doesn't fly away, light enough not to crush it. 3 or 4 fingers are enough, avoid tensing up.
The Movement: The Lever Arm
The dart throw is a lever movement, not a baseball throw.
- The Shoulder : It must remain still. It's the fixed pivot.
- The Elbow : It should be raised (almost horizontal) and point towards the target.
- The Follow-Through : This is the pros' secret. After releasing the dart, your hand should continue the movement and point towards the target.
Exercises to Dominate 301 and 501
501 requires two qualities: "scoring" (scoring lots of points) and "finishing" (hitting doubles).
Exercise 1: Pure "Scoring" (The 20 Loop)
Throw 100 darts aiming only at the 20. Count 1 point for a single, 2 for a double, 3 for a triple. Note your total score.
Redo this test every week to see your progress.
Exercise 2: "Bob's 27" (For Doubles)
The ultimate exercise for working on checkouts. You start with 27 points.
- Aim at doubles in order (D1, D2, D3... up to Bull).
- If you hit the double, add its value to your score.
- If you miss with your 3 darts, subtract the value. If you drop to 0 or below, you've lost.
Exercises to Become King of Cricket
Cricket requires precision on segments 15-20 and the Bull.
The 7 Cricket targets to master
╱ = 1 mark | ✕ = 2 marks | ⊗ = closed (3 marks)
Exercise 3: Around the World
Aim at numbers from 1 to 20 in order, then the Bull. You only move to the next number once you've hit the previous one.
Exercise 4: Bull Hunting
Throw your 3 darts aiming at the Bull. Count 1 point for the single Bull (green) and 2 points for the double Bull (red). Try to reach 50 points as fast as possible.
The Secret Weapon: Mental Game and Routine
- Create a Routine : Watch the pros on TV. They always do the same thing before throwing. Find your ritual.
- Don't Change Equipment Every Day : Keep the same set for at least 3 months to get used to its weight and aerodynamics.
- Mathematical Analysis : Learn your finish tables by heart. Not having to calculate during the throw frees your mind for aiming.
Conclusion
Becoming an excellent darts player requires patience and consistency. Focus on a stable position, a fluid motion, and practice Bob's 27 regularly!
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