Events
Discus
The discus throw is one of the oldest and is the most technical throw of all,
a perfect blend of power and technique. The only way to throw the discus is
the rotational technique, featured in the video below, or seen on the
Athlete's page in a video featuring Robert Harting and Alekna, both professional throwers.
Javelin
The Javelin is also one of the oldest events events, and is also very technical
The technique, unlike discus, has not changed much over the years. This is due
to the fact that the Javelin throw is meant to simulate something a warrior
would do in battle. To get the maximum distance and great trajectory out of the Javelin,
the technique has remained the same as the implement has not changed, except it is
much lighter today than it was back in Ancient Greece. Today, it is made of lightweight metal.
In ancient Greece, they were made of wood. Below is a video of the modern technique
used to throw the Javelin.
Hammer
The hammer throw is easy and difficult at the same time. For one thing, if something goes wrong
techincally, there is more time to recover as it is the longest of all 5 throws. On the other hand,
one must maintain good technque for longer than all the other throws. one must also complete several
rotations and keeping balance is very difficult! Especially when one is learning. Keeping the hammer
in line is very difficult as one's instinct is to pull the hammer in but this is technically
detrimental. The hammer must be kept as far from the body as possible to ensure acceleration
and maximum centrifugal force is acting on the hammer and the body to further accelerate
rotations.
Shot-Put
Shotput is one of the more versatile throwing events as 2 techniques can be used: the Glide and
the rotational technique, which is almost identical to that used by discus throwers. Depending
on the predispositions of the athletes, and his or her personal preferences, the athlete will
develope one of the two techniques. The video below features both techniques, although many more
athletes today use the rotational technique rather than the glide.
Weight Throw
The weight throw is basically a hammer throw, but with a much heavier weight and on a much shorter
chain. The technique is identical (some people use less rotations) and it can also be thrown
indoor, not like the hammer. This is beause the weight throw rarely goes over 20 meters, whereas
the Hammer travels upwards of 50 or 60 meters.
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