Like to sweat? Try a ‘run round’ of disc golf

Disc golf is great.

There’s not much I don’t like about it.

However, getting beyond culture and competition, within the actual game itself, I do wish it was a bit more physically taxing. I’m no athletic specimen; I’m hardly some hardcore sportsman.

I’m not Ezra Aderhold.

I do like to sweat, though.

If you’ve ever wondered why I bash on cart-use so much, this is a BIG part of it. To use a cart is on par with bringing a wheelchair with you to a cornhole tournament. And not because you’re handicapped or anything, but because you’re afraid of even the tiniest drop of lactic acid.

Growing up, my main sports were soccer and cycling. Disc golf was something I did during summer breaks to pass the time. With no job, no money, no girlfriend and not much going on outside of practice and training rides, it was the ultimate, “Hey! I suddenly have plans.”

Now that I’m older, I like to run, bike and swim.

And disc golf, of course.

Fortunately, three or four years ago, to help bridge the gap between hard work and leisure, I discovered the “run round” of disc golf. To play a run round is simple: You jog from shot to shot, instead of gingerly meandering down the fairway deep in thought. And if walking with purpose (power walking) is more your speed, that’ll do the trick, as long as you’re pushing yourself.

This method of play meshes aerobic exercise with disc golf.

It’s awesome.

I guess I always knew this was a thing, but seeing others do it for the first time at Slate Canyon Disc Golf Course in Provo, Utah made it a reality. These dudes were gassed. Slate Canyon is a mountain course. It’s not for the faint of heart – just hiking the holes is enough of a workout.

Most of my run rounds take place on this track.

Wherever you run, though, a few words of advice:

• Quality trail-running shoes are best, but agile hiking books could work, too.
• Only bring three or four discs with you, as you’re not looking to shoot great.
• Use a small, low-profile bag for your few discs, but more importantly – water.
• Pace yourself, Usain Bolt: Eighteen holes is a long way to run, throw and retrieve.

* Note: Watch where you’re running – rocks and roots make for unsure footing.

One more KEY piece of advice …

Don’t neglect the “disc golf” part of the run round.

Again, you’re (likely) not going to card a new personal best, but enjoy the shots you throw – be deliberate with them. The first few times I did this, I practically threw on the move like a psycho. Hustle, but when you get to your lie, breathe and think about what you’re doing – then execute.

The run round is just as much about mental stamina as it is physical.

It’s hard to focus when your heart’s beating like a hummingbird’s.

Intrigued?

Do it.

• Doubles is fun.
• Ript Revenge is a riot.
• Glow golf is a good time, too.

But don’t sleep on the run round.

Keep score to see how well you shoot, all things considered. Then, the next time out, see if you can beat it. Or better yet, time yourself on the same course to see if your speed is improving.

Make a race out of it.

Your arteries will thank you.

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