How to Throw a Javelin
Javelin throwing may seem simple at first, but much technique is involved for you to make a successful throw. Without the right form, the javelin won’t travel far, possibly landing only a few meters from the thrower. If you want to be just as good as any Olympian thrower, better learn and practice the proper technique.
I. The Javelin Grip
The javelin, being a pretty wobbly projectile, needs a stable grip for it to travel a sizable distance. Position it at the center of your palm then hold it tightly with your fingers. Place your index finger at the back of the stick’s binding while the thumb rests by the binding. With your grip fixed, check if the javelin is held steadily. If it falls after swinging your wrist and arms, consider adjusting the positions of your fingers, slightly.
II. The Javelin Run
Javelin throwers are given a short strip of the track, where they will run, which adds lots of force to the throw. They stop with their non-dominant foot, providing the arm carrying the javelin room for movment. Timing is involved to perform a successful run, otherwise the projectile will sail closer than expected. To perform a good run, estimate the point where you should stop for the throw. Practice running without the javelin until you get accustomed to the distance of the track.
III. Throw Setup
Setting up the throw is an essential factor in javelin throwing, in fact, it differentiates a decent thrower from one who is at the Olympic-level. For a right handed person, during the javelin run, land your left heel to the ground, which sets up the throw. Twist your torso to the right while bending it backwards, with your left shoulder pointing to the direction of the throw. Bend your right knee slightly, going to the opposite side. As for the javelin, it should be raised and fully extended. For left handed throwers, just switch the position of the limbs mentioned.
IV. The Javelin Throw
The right leg, which is the base of your throwing posture, is greatly responsible for the power of your throw. Twist your right knee forward along with your entire body, picking up lots of force. Throw the javelin using the collective force of your throwing arm and your body. You should fling it with all your might combined with the right timing.
V. Ending Posture
Right after throwing, the force you exerted will push your body forward. Put your dominant leg forward (the right for right handed people) and plant it to the ground, which halts your movement and keeps you from stepping out of bounds.
Practice, Practice, Practice
The entire throwing procedure is not easy to master. Practice every step religiously, so you can soon apply them with perfection. Once you get used to the whole process, it’s just a matter of time before you find yourself on the podium, being awarded a gold medal.