Common Throwing Mistakes

Common Throwing Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

Even seasoned throwers slip up now and then! Here are the most common boomerang mistakes — and how to make sure your throw flies perfectly every time.

1. Throwing Side-Arm

A boomerang should always be thrown overhand, just like a baseball or dart.. Never throw it side-arm — it’ll shoot straight up, dive back down, and could hit the ground, a friend, or even you!
If thrown at the correct angle with the right spin and strength, your boomerang will fly beautifully on its own. Trust it — and let it do the work.

2. Throwing Without Movement

Don’t stand still! Step forward with your opposite foot as you throw — just like when throwing a ball. Finish with your throwing hand around eye level for a consistent flight path.
Focus on your wrist snap — that’s what gives the boomerang its spin.

💡 Tip: If you use a pinch grip, your wrist snap should feel like knocking on a door.
If you use a full grip, it’s more like playing “rock, paper, scissors.”

3. Choosing Your Grip

There are two main ways to hold your boomerang:

  • Pinch Grip: Pinch the boomerang between your thumb and forefinger. Snap your wrist at the end of the throw to release it cleanly.

  • Cradle Grip: Wrap your forefinger slightly over the front edge. At release, “pull the trigger” with a sharp wrist snap for extra spin.

Spin is the secret to success — so choose whichever grip helps you create maximum spin comfortably.

4. Throwing With the Wind

Wind direction matters!
Always throw across the wind at about a 45°–90° angle. To test the wind, drop a few leaves or blades of grass and watch which way they drift — then aim your throw across that direction.

5. Using the Correct Boomerang

Boomerangs are made for specific hand preferences:

  • Right-handed boomerangs fly in a counter-clockwise circle.

  • Left-handed boomerangs fly in a clockwise circle.

Never throw your boomerang upside down or backwards — it’s designed for one direction of rotation only!

Master these basics, and your boomerang will fly true, return smoothly, and deliver that satisfying “whoosh” every time!