Darts stance: how to stand at the oche

Your stance is the base for everything else in your throw. It doesn't have to look like anyone else's, but it does need to be balanced and the same every time.

The three common stances

• Side-on: your throwing-side foot points at the board and your body is turned side-on. It lines your eye, elbow and dart up naturally and is the most common stance for right-handers who throw with the right foot forward.
• Front-on: both feet face the board. Some players find it more comfortable, but it can make it harder to keep the elbow in line.
• Middle: somewhere between the two, with the front foot angled at around 45 degrees. Many players end up here naturally.

Right-handed players usually put the right foot forward, and left-handers the left. Try all three and choose the one that feels steady.

Weight and balance

Most of your weight should be on your front foot, with the back foot for balance. Lean forward slightly if you like, but not so far that you have to fight to stay upright. If you wobble as you release, you're leaning too far.

Where to stand on the oche

Many players stand slightly to one side of centre so their throwing arm lines up with the 20. Experiment by moving your front foot a few centimetres left or right and watching where your darts group. When you find the spot, note it so you can find it again on any board.

Keep still

Only your throwing arm should move. If your body sways or your head moves as you throw, your darts will spread. A good test is to have someone watch your head from the side for a few visits.

Once you're happy with your stance, look at your grip and throwing technique.