PaceSetter Book

Throwing Activities 4

The Forward Pitch is a two-handed forward throw, where the feet are positioned approximately shoulder width apart and the ball held between bent knees with the body slightly crouched. The young athlete should be encouraged to throw the ball at speed and should notice the contribution made by the legs and upper body to the distance thrown. The Overhead Heave uses the same starting positions as the Forward Pitch but this time the young athlete must have his or her back to the throwing direction. The ball should be released at speed and the optimum point of release is above the head with the arms kept long. 4.1.2 Common Root Movements in Throwing The development of throwing events in athletics is best thought of as growing from a common root movement. The common root idea is based on the fact that at their most fundamental level the Shot, Discus and Javelin involve a very similar action sequence. If the elements of the action sequence are practised and mastered, the young athlete will be well equipped to develop the skills for throwing further. The action sequence (in the right-handed thrower) is as follows: 4.1.2.1 Weight Transfer from Right to Left The standing throw is initiated by the right (back) leg rotating the hips forward, which in turn will transfer the weight over the left (front) leg. It may be worth using the cue: Shift - Lift which means the weight should be shifted from right to left and combines with lift towards the release position. Turn the heel of the right foot to face the back of the circle and the chest will automatically move towards the throwing direction. 4.1.2.2 Legs First, Arms Last and Fast It is important that the strong and slower-moving muscles of the lower limbs accelerate the throwing implement in the initial part of the throw. The weaker, but faster-moving muscles of the arms can only be effective when the throwing implement is moving and therefore the arms are used as late as possible. 4.1.2.3 Extension The young athlete starts in a low position with the aim of finishing the throw in a high position. The throwing implement is therefore always released when the body and arms are in a stretched and high position. The thrower should finish by extending both legs in order that he or she stands tall. 4.1.2.4 Left Side Brace The left side of the body should be braced to allow the right side to accelerate round or over it ensuring a strong and powerful release position. Lack of strength or misunderstanding causes many young athletes to collapse the left side of the body just before release. WEB COPY ©EVEQUE WEB COPY ©EVEQUE

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