What do you want out of Darts?

I would like to start the inaugural Shot! Darts Ambassadors darting tips by having you ask yourself an honest question. Exactly, what do you want out of darts? Sounds easy enough doesn’t it? The answer to this question though will set the tone for your practice routines, your potential results and many other intangibles.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying playing darts at its most basic level; hanging out with friends having a few pints, and goofing around at the board. The same goes for the casual tournament player. Again, another great reason to head up to the pub on a Friday night enjoying even a few more pints and kicking in a few bucks to play in a tournament. It is almost always these 2 scenarios that someone gets the “bug” and wants to progress to the next level. At this level, I would not put too much emphasis on a regular practice routine. You are enjoying darts for what it is; a great social game where players of all ability levels have a place at the oche.

The next level would be joining a local weekly league. From this point forward, you are going to want to start some sort of basic practice routine. This is a great place to start learning all of the nuances of the game. Setting up your outs to make sure you have the best percentage shot at a double, learning basic strategy in cricket, and most importantly learning proper dart etiquette.

From this point you may want to start to venture out into travelling short distances to organized tournaments. With this brings in a more specific practice routine. Learning proper set ups depending on what your opponents score is, playing a little more aggressive game of cricket, and learning to identify certain personality traits in people that helps in spotting their weakness under tournament conditions.

The next step takes considerable drive and devotion which includes considerable practice on a regular basis. At this point you have either decided you have the ability to compete at regional levels, or you have the strength of character to put the time in on the board to get yourself there.

Whatever group you fall in should dictate your practice, expectations, and dedication. There is no right way to progress to any level. But there is a truck load of wrong ways. And your ability to access what you want out of the game is the best way to put yourself on the right track into getting what you want from the great game of darts.

In my next instalment of Shot! Darts Ambassadors darting tips, I will break down some good practice routines for each level of player. All advice on practice and progression should be taken for what it is… Information. It is up to you to figure out what works best for you. And the best way to do that is learn all you can and identify what suits you best. See you at the oche!