X-Step

Definition: The X-Step is a common backhand footwork sequence in which the trailing foot passes behind the lead foot before the final plant. For a right-handed backhand, the central pattern is a right-foot step, the left foot crossing behind, and a right-foot plant; a left-handed backhand mirrors that order. Preliminary steps, stride length, and pace vary. The crossing action helps organize forward movement and body preparation for the throw, bringing the player into the plant from which the disc is delivered. It is an approach pattern, not a separate source of guaranteed distance. A compact walking X-Step can be useful, while some shots are better served by a standstill or one-step throw.

Why It Matters: An X-Step earns its place by helping the player coordinate the approach with the throw. It can introduce useful momentum and room for preparation, but additional steps also require additional coordination. A beginner may learn the foot order perfectly and still struggle when the arm joins in; a practiced player may discover that an elaborate approach adds little to a short, precise shot. Judge the sequence by what it contributes to the intended flight, not by how athletic the journey across the tee looks. Learn the pattern at a manageable pace, connect it to an easy delivery, and increase speed only as control permits. The feet are preparing a throw, not auditioning for the long jump.

Term Observations: “Cross your feet. Not your fingers.” —DiscLula expression

Learn the order without a disc first, on secure footing. For a right-handed backhand, say “right, behind, right” as you move into the plant. For a left-handed backhand, use “left, behind, left.” These are memory aids for the central sequence, not instructions to make every stride the same length or every foot point at an identical angle.

Dave Dunipace’s guide, illustrated by Tom Bant, describes the motion as a “step, hop and a step.” Its airborne crossing phase shows one way to perform the sequence. A beginner can learn the foot exchange at walking pace; the hop is not an entrance requirement.

Imagine a student who rehearses the steps neatly, then adds the disc and immediately ties the whole operation in a knot. The next task is to connect the footwork to a gentle throw, not to accelerate the confusion. The student has learned the route; now the delivery has to travel with it.

Choose where you intend to plant, then rehearse the approach to that location without throwing. If the last step repeatedly lands beyond it, adjust the starting point or simplify the approach. The tee pad is a workspace, not a distance you are obliged to consume from end to end.

Riley O’Neill’s Innova instruction identifies delivery before the front foot is planted as a common backhand power leak. Use that relationship as a checkpoint while the sequence stays fluid. Do not turn it into a command to halt at the plant and restart with the arm.

A small tee, awkward lie, or uncertain footing may favor a shorter sequence—or none. Decide before starting. Keeping a useful standstill available is good shot selection, not evidence that your X-Step membership has expired.

The tee boundary matters at release, not throughout the entire approach. PDGA Rule 802.04 requires at least one supporting point in the teeing area and all supporting points within it when the disc is released. Support outside that area is permitted before or afterward. Plan the plant and follow-through with both the rule and the available footing in mind.

When teaching, ask what changed in the throw after the steps were added. A cleaner starting line, manageable momentum, or useful extra carry is more persuasive than a stylish crossing step. The best-looking rehearsal still needs to deliver a disc.

References

Dave Dunipace. The X Step. Illustrations by Tom Bant. Hosted by Discs Unlimited. Undated. Accessed October 10, 2026.
Riley O’Neill. How to Throw Backhands… Really Far. Innova Disc Golf. February 24, 2026. Accessed October 10, 2026.
Professional Disc Golf Association. 802.04 Teeing Off. Official Rules of Disc Golf. Accessed October 10, 2026.

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