We have a hand launched glider contest once a month at our club. Half the guys are hand throwing thier DLGs for the contest. Discus launches are not allowed in the contest, at least not so far.

I would say yes, keep it simple to start. Keep your launches easy to start and build up to it. You can build in the mixes later.

This is not a strength thing. Getting 40-50 feet is easy and that is enough to start. Getting 100+ feet will come later. It is all in the technique. You can start with a side arm launch. Keep it smooth, and keep the arm and wrist straight. Don't "fling it". Work up to harder throws, then you can work into a full discus launch.

I am no master of this but I have learned a little flying my side arm launched "boomer" wing glider.

www.radiocarbonart.com has a great video on discus launched gliders and the proper throwing techniques.

Let us know how it goes.