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.
Precise foot placement: front foot against the oche ensures distance, back foot ensures stability.
- 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.
A standard grip (Pencil Grip): relaxed, with 3 contact points for optimal control.
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.
Key Cricket zones highlighted: focus your training on these specific segments.
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
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╱ = 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!
