🎯 How to Throw Darts Correctly (Beginner Tips)

Learning how to throw darts correctly is the most important step for any beginner who wants to improve. Many new players assume that accuracy comes from strength or expensive equipment, but in reality, good dart throwing is all about technique, consistency, and patience.

When we first started playing darts regularly, it became clear very quickly that simply throwing harder didn’t help. In fact, throwing with force often made accuracy worse. Once we focused on proper stance, grip, and a repeatable motion, improvement became noticeable within weeks.

This guide is designed specifically for beginners. It covers everything you need to know about throwing darts correctly—from body positioning to follow-through—so you can build a strong foundation and enjoy the game without frustration.

🧠 Understanding What Makes a Good Dart Throw

A correct dart throw is smooth, controlled, and repeatable. Unlike many sports, darts is not about power. It’s about repeating the same motion again and again with small refinements.

A good throw consists of:

• A stable stance

• A relaxed grip

• A straight throwing motion

• A clean release

• Proper follow-through

Beginners who focus on these fundamentals improve much faster than those who constantly change their technique.

🧍 Proper Stance: Setting Up Your Throw

Your stance is the base of your entire throwing motion. If your stance is unstable, your throw will be inconsistent no matter how good your arm motion is.

Beginner Stance Guidelines

• Stand sideways to the dartboard

• Place your dominant foot forward (same side as throwing hand)

• Keep your back foot slightly behind for balance

• Lean forward slightly without losing balance

• Keep your body still during the throw

One mistake beginners often make is shifting their weight while throwing. Try to stay as still as possible and let only your throwing arm move.

📏 Distance and Positioning

Correct positioning helps develop muscle memory.

Standard Throwing Distance

• 7 feet 9¼ inches (2.37 meters) from the board (steel-tip darts)

Always practice from the same distance. Moving closer or farther makes it harder to build consistency.

✋ How to Hold a Dart (Grip Technique)

There is no single “perfect” dart grip, but beginners should start with a simple, relaxed grip and adjust slightly over time.

Basic Beginner Grip

• Hold the dart with 3 or 4 fingers

• Thumb underneath the barrel

• Index and middle finger on top or side

• Keep the dart level

• Avoid squeezing too tightly

A tight grip causes tension and jerky throws. A relaxed grip allows a smoother release.

When we first loosened our grip slightly, accuracy improved almost immediately.

🎯 Aiming the Right Way

Aiming in darts is more about focus and repetition than eyesight.

Beginner Aiming Tips

• Pick a small target, not the whole board

• Keep your eyes on the target, not the dart

• Keep your head still

• Avoid rushing the throw

Beginners often aim too generally. Instead of “aiming at the 20,” aim at a specific wire or spot inside the segment.

🔄 The Throwing Motion Explained

A correct dart throw should feel natural and smooth.

Step-by-Step Throwing Motion

1. Bring the dart back slowly

2. Keep your elbow up and steady

3. Push the dart forward in a straight line

4. Release the dart naturally

5. Follow through toward the target

Your elbow should act like a hinge. The rest of your body stays still.

👉 Follow-Through: Why It Matters

Follow-through is often overlooked by beginners, but it plays a big role in accuracy.

Proper Follow-Through

• Arm extends toward the target

• Fingers point where you want the dart to go

• Don’t stop your arm suddenly

A good follow-through ensures the dart leaves your hand smoothly and travels straight.

🕒 Practice Tips for Beginners

Practicing without a plan can slow improvement. Short, focused practice sessions work best.

Simple Beginner Practice Routine

• 5 minutes warm-up

• Aim for the bullseye (control practice)

• Throw at large numbers (20, 19, 18)

• Finish with a fun game

Practicing 15–30 minutes daily is more effective than long, irregular sessions.

❌ Common Dart Throwing Mistakes Beginners Make

Throwing Too Hard

Power reduces control. Focus on smooth motion instead.

Changing Technique Too Often

Stick to one technique and refine it gradually.

Poor Grip Pressure

Squeezing the dart causes inconsistency.

Moving the Body While Throwing

Only your arm should move.

Recognizing these mistakes early helps prevent bad habits.

🧠 Mental Focus and Confidence

Darts is as much a mental game as it is physical.

Mental Tips for Beginners

• Stay calm after misses

• Focus on consistency, not perfection

• Don’t rush your throws

• Take breaks if frustrated

Confidence grows naturally as your technique improves.

🧰 Equipment Tips That Affect Throwing

You don’t need expensive gear, but basic equipment matters.

Beginner Equipment Advice

• Dart weight: 22–24 grams

• Use straight or slightly tapered barrels

• Ensure good lighting

• Use a stable dartboard setup

Comfortable equipment helps maintain consistency.

📅 How Long Does It Take to Learn Proper Dart Throwing?

Every player is different, but most beginners notice improvement within a few weeks of consistent practice.

Typical Progress Timeline

• Week 1–2: Learning fundamentals

• Week 3–4: Improved consistency

• Month 2+: Better accuracy and grouping

Patience is key. Improvement comes gradually.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Should beginners copy professional throwing styles?

No. Start with basic technique and develop your own style naturally.

Is it normal to miss often as a beginner?

Yes. Missing is part of learning.

Can grip style change over time?

Yes. Many players adjust grip slightly as they improve.

Is accuracy more important than scoring?

For beginners, accuracy always comes first.

🧠 Final Thoughts

Learning how to throw darts correctly takes time, but it doesn’t have to be frustrating. Beginners who focus on proper stance, relaxed grip, smooth motion, and consistent practice improve faster and enjoy the game more.

From what we’ve seen, players who build good habits early avoid many common problems later. Darts rewards patience and repetition, and even small improvements add up over time.

So take your time, practice regularly, and focus on technique. With the right approach, accuracy and confidence will follow.

🔒 Transparency Notice

This article is for informational purposes only. Results may vary depending on practice habits and individual skill levels.