Lesson 8 — Loading the Dart
(Reaching for the Next Dart)
Purpose of this lesson
To create a consistent, efficient motion when selecting and setting the next dart, without breaking rhythm, grip, or focus.
What happens between throws matters just as much as the throw itself.
What “Loading the Dart” Means
Loading the dart is the action of:
Selecting the next dart from the non throwing hand
Placing it into the throwing grip
Returning to the set position
This should be calm, repeatable, and automatic.
Core Principles of Proper Dart Loading
1. The Grip Stays the Same
When loading the next dart:
The throwing hand should return to the same grip
No grip searching or finger repositioning
No squeezing to “reset control”
If your grip changes between darts, your release will too.
2. Use the Non-Throwing Hand
The non-throwing hand:
Presents the dart
Places i into the throwing hand
Stays relaxed
Avoid grabbing the dart directly from the barrel with your throwing hand.
3. Minimal Movement
Efficient loading means:
No extra motion
No unnecessary re=aiming
No rushing
The dart should be ready to throw with minimal adjustment.
4. Eyes Stay on the Target
While loading the dart:
Keep your eyes on the dart board
avoid looking down at your hands
Maintain visual focus
This preserves rhythm and confidence.
5. Consistent Timing
Each load should take roughly the same amount of time.
Rushed loading leads to:
Grip tension
Poor alignment
Inconsistent release
Slow is smooth. Smooth is repeatable.
Practice Drill — Load and Set
Throw one dart
Hold your finish briefly
Load the next dart calmly
Return to set position
Repeat
Throw:
3 rounds of 10 darts at your favorite number
Focus on:
Same grip every time
Same timing between darts
No looking down
Common Loading Mistakes
Regripping every dart
Dropping the dart into the palm
Rushing after a miss
Breaking eye contact with the board
Closing Thought
The throw starts before the dart moves.
A consistent load leads to a consistent release.
Treat every dart the same.