Advanced strategies for 501 darts.
A step-by-step photo guide.
The game of 501 tests your ability to consistently hit high numbers every time you step up to the line. The main thing to remember is to relax and trust your game. It also helps to memorize all of the dart sequences for your out numbers. Here are some tips that can help you improve your chances of winning.
Find your hot number.Don’t ignore numbers on the board just because they aren’t the highest on the board. If you’re hot on 18s, run with them. A good general rule of thumb is to hit a total of 60 points or better per round. Five 18s will get the job done. Remember that this is a numbers game – go with what you feel comfortable with and hit a lot of them.
Ignore your opponent's throws.It sounds crazy, but there is very little gained from knowing he/she just threw a 180 or an eight. A lot of people let this affect their game in a bad way. The dart board is your competitor. Beat it by consistently hitting what you aim at. There is one exception to this rule. If you thrive on adversity then it could pump you up to throw better.
Work on your dart stamina.You just hit a ton-40 and everybody gives you a high-five. Your adrenaline is pumping, you feel like you can conquer the world. Then you step up the line for your next shot and you can’t repeat a high score. This is dart stamina and it affects everyone. What happens between these two turns? You get pumped up and full of energy. This change in demeanor can have the tendency to alter your throw. Relaxed and calm is how you want to be on the line. Just take a few deep breathes between shots, forget about your last throw and visualize your darts in the triple ring.
Following your aim.Sometimes you can find yourself throwing poorly because you are trying too hard to aim your darts. Concentrating too hard on each dart’s destination can cause you to get tense and can easily spiral out of control. Consider focusing your aim on your first dart and then use that dart as a marker. As long as that first dart is a good shot, all you have to do is repeat your throwing motion at your marker dart. By not having to concentrate on aiming with every dart you can maintain a relaxed and calm state of mind, which is the key to throwing great darts.