How to Throw a Discus
One of the oldest track and field sports in the Olympics is the discus throw. While it seems easy, there are numerous considerations and tricks to remember before you can master this sport. Here are some pointers to keep in mind when throwing a discus.
What You’ll Need:
A discus
Discus ring with net
Field
Procedure:
Borrow or buy your own discus. Borrowing is a better option, especially if you’re a beginner. Ask your friends if they know someone whom you can borrow a discus from. It’ll be a waste if you buy a professional discus only to realize you don’t suit the sport. Make sure the discus weight suits your capabilities; women usually throw lighter discs than men.
discus throw
Get a discus ring. This is usually 8′ 2 1/2″ in diameter. Make sure the discus ring has a safety net which stops the net from going any way, aside from forward. Also, make sure that when you start throwing, no one is around, or you might accidentally injure someone.
Hold the discus properly, in your dominant hand. Let the discus rest in your palm, with its edge held by your four fingertips. Line the index finger with your wrist, since you need to throw the discus off from this finger’s front. Wrap your fingers lightly around the disc’s edge, to hold it upright.
Stance is very important when throwing a discus. Position your feet properly, at least shoulder width apart. Keep them perpendicular and straight to one another. Make sure they are not angled outward. Check your arms, too, making sure they are extended to a length that helps you.
Prepare for the discus throw. Raise the other non-dominant hand in the air, extending it. It must be at least three or four inches above the head. Then, bend the dominant hand’s elbow, bringing the discus to stomach level.
Begin the throw. You need to throw the discus in a fluid movement. Twist your body properly at the trunk, moving your extended arm to the front of your body, at the same time, bringing the discus behind. As you do the latter, flip the dominant hand, so the discus faces the ground. Don’t worry, because centrifugal force will hold it in place.
Finish the throw. When your extended arm reaches your body’s mid line, move the arm and the dominant hand back to the starting position, keeping your body fluid and continuing the motion. Twist your body at the trunk, as you push off the leg closest to the discuss. Continue the rotation, until the arm holding the discus approaches the extended arm’s starting position.
At that point in motion, release the discus in the air and in the direction of the discus ring, rolling it off your fingers and in the sky.
Some Tips
Get used to throwing the discus off the index finger.
Never throw a discus in a crowded field.
Release the discus at a 40 to 45 degree angle, for optimal distance and height.
Discus throwing can be challenging, but once you get the hang of it, it’ll be easy. Remember these tips to throw a discus the right way.