How to Throw
Master the Four Pillars of Flight.
Success on the field isn’t about strength; it’s about mastering the Four Pillars of Flight. Follow this checklist to ensure your boomerang completes its journey back to your hand.
1. The Grip
The Pinch Grip: Pinch the wing between thumb and index finger.
The Cradle Grip: Wrap the index finger around the leading edge for more control.
2. The Wind
Face the wind (12:00). Right-handers should aim at 2:00 (45° to the right).
Left-handers should aim at 10:00 (45° to the left). This angle allows the wind to “push” the boomerang back into the return arc.
3. The Angle
The Layover: Hold the boomerang nearly vertical (between 12:00 and 1:00). Never throw it flat like a frisbee.
The Elevation: Aim at the horizon or slightly above.
4. The Spin
Snap your wrist at the release point—like flicking a towel. Spin is the engine of the flight; high spin with moderate force is more effective than a hard throw with low spin.
For Left-Handed Throwers
Important: You cannot throw a right-handed boomerang left-handed and expect it to return. You must use a left-handed boomerang, which is shaped as a mirror image of a right-handed model.
As a lefty, your entire world is mirrored: Aim 45 degrees to the left of the wind. Your boomerang will circle in a clockwise direction, whereas a right-handed flight circles counter-clockwise.
The Science of the Catch
Wait for the boomerang to lose forward speed and begin its “helicopter” hover. For beginners, the Sandwich Catch is the safest method: wait until the boomerang is at chest level, then clap your hands together on the flat center.
While pros perform behind-the-back or foot catches, focus on your eyes-on-target tracking first.