I still remember the first time I tried throwing a boomerang, I was a kid, standing on a sandy beach in Southern California, my fingers wrapped around a colorful wooden boomerang.
I watched as my dad effortlessly threw it, and to my amazement, it soared through the air, returning right back to him. It looked magical, like something straight out of a movie.
Curious, I gave it a shot—only for the boomerang to crash into the sand about five feet away from me. It was a humbling experience, but one that sparked my interest in learning the technique.
Fast forward a few years, and I’ve become pretty good at it. If you’ve ever wondered how to throw a boomerang and actually get it to come back, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down.
What Is a Boomerang and Why Does It Return?
First, let’s talk about the magic behind the boomerang. A boomerang is a curved tool traditionally used by Indigenous people of Australia for hunting or sport. When thrown properly, it has a unique flight path that allows it to return to the thrower.
The return flight happens due to the combination of its shape, the way it’s thrown, and the angle at which it spins through the air. The boomerang’s airfoil design creates different air pressure on either side, which, when combined with the right angle and spin, makes the boomerang curve and come back. It’s not magic—it’s physics!
What’s the Right Way to Throw a Boomerang?
You’ve probably seen someone throw a boomerang and thought, “That looks easy!” But trust me, it’s a bit more nuanced than just tossing it like a frisbee. To make sure it actually comes back, here’s what you need to know:
1. Grip the Boomerang Correctly
The first step is to hold the boomerang correctly. Use your thumb and index finger to grip the top of the boomerang, just like you’re holding a pen. You want the flat side facing you, with the curved side pointing outward. Make sure your grip is firm but not too tight.
2. Find the Right Angle
The key to a successful throw is the angle at which you release the boomerang. You need to throw it at about a 45-degree angle to the ground. Hold it vertically, with the flat face facing slightly to the side, so it’s tilted slightly toward the wind.
If you’re throwing against the wind (which is recommended for beginners), angle the boomerang slightly into the wind to help it catch the air properly and return to you.
3. Add Spin for the Right Flight Path
The spin is what gives the boomerang its signature return. To create enough spin, you’ll need to throw the boomerang with a flick of the wrist. Think of it like a tennis serve—there’s a snap of the wrist that adds momentum. The more spin you add, the better your boomerang will fly. You should aim to throw it with enough speed and rotation to make it soar, not just glide or drop to the ground.
What Happens After the Throw?
Now that you’ve thrown the boomerang, let’s talk about what happens next:
1. Watch the Flight Path
After releasing it, you’ll see the boomerang start its arc. It should fly in a wide loop, gradually turning back toward you. If you’re standing in an open area with no obstacles, it will circle around and return right to where you’re standing.
If it doesn’t come back right away, don’t worry! You might not have added enough spin, or the wind conditions might need adjusting. Just give it another shot and adjust your throw accordingly.
2. Catch It Safely
When the boomerang returns, you want to catch it as it comes toward you. A boomerang doesn’t drop straight down like a frisbee; it returns in a more horizontal direction. Extend your hand, palm facing up, and grab it by the tips of the boomerang as it flies back to you. Make sure to stay aware of its path and time your catch so that you don’t get hit in the face (it happens!).
How to Improve Your Boomerang Skills
Mastering the boomerang takes practice, but there are ways to improve faster:
1. Practice in an Open Area
Always practice in an open field, away from trees, buildings, or anything that could obstruct the boomerang’s flight. Having space to work with gives you the freedom to adjust your throw and get the right trajectory.
2. Use the Right Boomerang for Beginners
For beginners, opt for a lightweight boomerang that’s easier to throw. Some boomerangs are designed to be more forgiving, offering a wider, slower curve that’s easier to track. These are perfect for new throwers who might not yet have the perfect technique.
3. Adjust for Wind Conditions
The wind can be your best friend or your worst enemy when throwing a boomerang. Lighter winds (around 5–10 mph) are generally ideal. If it’s too windy, the boomerang may veer off course. If there’s no wind, it may not return at all. Adjust your throw to the wind’s direction, and practice until you get it just right.
FAQs About Throwing a Boomerang
1. How long does it take to learn to throw a boomerang?
It can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to get accustomed to it. The key is practice—adjust your technique based on how the boomerang responds to your throws.
2. Do I need a special kind of boomerang to throw it?
Yes, using the right boomerang is crucial for beginners. Start with a lightweight, beginner-friendly boomerang. Once you get comfortable, you can experiment with more advanced models designed for speed and longer flight paths.
3. Can a boomerang be dangerous?
While it’s a fun activity, you should be careful when throwing a boomerang. The boomerang is not a toy, and the sharp edges can cause injury. Make sure to throw it in a safe, open area, and be cautious of where it’s returning.
4. Can I throw a boomerang indoors?
While it’s tempting to try, throwing a boomerang indoors isn’t ideal. You need a lot of space to let it return, and indoor environments aren’t usually conducive to its flight pattern. Stick to open fields or wide open spaces for the best results.
Boomerang Mastery: It’s All About Practice
Throwing a boomerang may seem simple at first, but it takes practice and patience to master. With the right grip, angle, spin, and some trial and error, you’ll soon be able to watch the boomerang return to you like a pro.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a boomerang, head to an open field, and give it a try. Remember, it’s all about fine-tuning your technique and enjoying the process. Happy throwing!
