PaceSetter Book

Throwing Activities 4

4.3.5 Javelin Progressions for the Standing Throw The correct position of the feet and legs are key contributors to a successful throw. In the Javelin however, the most common mistake is throwing from a position that is incorrect in terms of the feet and legs. It is very important that, from an early age, young athletes are taught the correct throwing techniques. The opposite leg to the throwing arm should be placed just behind the throwing line, with the other foot placed behind about shoulder width apart. Therefore, in right-handed throwers the left foot is placed up to the line and the right foot behind. Such a position assists in making use of the powerful leg muscles. The javelin should be held in the hand with the palm facing the sky and the arm must start the throw from a straightish position to ensure maximum pull and acceleration on the javelin. The initial position will be 90% of the body weight on the right leg as the javelin is extended back and the weight is then shifted to 90% on the left leg at release. The longer the travel of the arm before releasing, the more the path of acceleration is increased and the faster the javelin will leave the hand. The hips should be driven powerfully from right to left which leads the throwing action and adds torque velocity to the javelin. The back heel should be turned making a bow with the chest in the direction of the throw before the elbow is pulled through high with the tip of the javelin also in the direction of the throw. The young athletes can act as observers for each other and therefore have the ability to establish the angle at which the object goes furthest. 4.3.6 Javelin Progressions for the Moving Throw After the standing throw has been mastered, the young athlete can then progress to adding further forward movement by running and then throwing. The additional speed and momentum should ensure that the implement to be thrown will go further. The young athlete should first be taught and then practise a three-stride approach before progressing to a five-stride approach. Encourage the young athlete to run at the throw, as some will run up to the line, stop and then throw. Running at the throw and not going over the throwing line is important and it must be explained to young athletes that getting their steps and actions right, even down to the final flick with the fingers and the wrist, will contribute to improvement. WEB COPY ©EVEQUE WEB COPY ©EVEQUE

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