If you’re new to the world of darts, learning how to throw a dart is the perfect place to start! While professional players make it look smooth and effortless on TV, mastering the basics requires understanding a few key fundamentals.

By following these tips and practicing regularly, you'll be well on your way to improving your skills and gaining confidence at the dartboard!

1. How to Hold a Dart

One of the most critical parts of throwing a dart is learning how to hold it correctly. This is known as your grip and can vary from player to player. A proper grip is comfortable, consistent, and controlled.

2. Understanding the Dart

A dart consists of four parts:

Point – The tip that hits the board.

Barrel – The main part you grip.

Shaft – Connects the barrel to the flight.

Flight – The fins that stabilize the dart in the air.

3. Finding Your Grip

The number of fingers you use to grip the dart is personal preference. Here are the most common grips:

Three-Finger Grip: Most popular; uses the thumb, forefinger, and middle finger for control.

Two-Finger Grip: A simpler grip using the thumb and forefinger.

Four-Finger Grip: Involves the thumb and all fingers except the pinky, offering added stability.

4. Grip Positions on the Barrel

Where you hold the dart on the barrel can also vary:

Front Grippers: Hold the dart near the point (front of the barrel).

Middle Grippers: Grip the dart at the center of the barrel, offering balanced control.

Rear Grippers: Hold the dart closer to the flight (back of the barrel).

Tip for Beginners: Start with a middle grip. Hold the dart in the center of the barrel with light but steady pressure—tight enough to maintain control but relaxed enough for a smooth release. Keep your fingers straight, and ensure no fingers obstruct the dart’s movement.

5. How to Aim a Dart

Follow these steps to aim effectively:

Raise the Dart to Eye Level: Hold the dart with your throwing hand and lift it to eye level. If you’re right-handed, focus with your right eye, if left-handed, use your left eye.

Align Your Arm: Make sure your shoulder, elbow, and hand are in alignment, forming a 90-degree angle.

Focus on the Target: Keep your dominant eye locked on your target. Avoid looking at the dart itself—focus on the spot you want to hit.

Keep Your Elbow Steady: A level elbow is key for consistency. Think of your arm as a catapult, with minimal sideways or up-and-down movement during your throw.

6. How to Release a Dart

Now that you’ve aimed your dart, it’s time to release it:

Draw Back and Release: Pull the dart back toward you and then release it in a smooth forward motion as you extend your arm.

Snap Your Wrist: As you release, snap your wrist slightly to add control, allowing your arm to follow through naturally.

Maintain Balance: Both feet should remain on the ground to avoid rocking. Use only your hand and wrist for the throw, keeping the rest of your body still.

7. The Trajectory of Your Dart

When you throw a dart, it doesn’t travel in a straight line but follows a parabolic curve—starting low, rising, and then dropping into the dartboard. Your goal is to achieve as direct a flight path as possible to improve accuracy.

8. Improving Your Throw

As with any skill, practice makes perfect. Here are some tips to help:

Consistency is Key: Focus on creating a smooth, repeatable motion that incorporates your stance, grip, aim, and release.

Take Your Time: Start by aiming carefully. As you practice, aiming will become second nature, and your pace may naturally increase.

How to throw like a pro: darts tips

The video by CBC News NL - Newfoundland and Labrador