How to: Shot Put

The discus is not a competition for everyone. To be a professional in the shot put and compete for world titles, you have to be very strong. Discus throwers are some of the most explosive and powerful athletes in the world. Imagine this: You're bowling and you pick up a HUGE 4.4 pound dinner plate. Now, instead of rolling it to hit the pins, you put it on top of your shoulder and with one arm, throw it 15 feet passed the end pins. Yes, that's possible.

 Keep the discus high in your hand. Make sure to keep your elbow high. During the beginning of your throw, you will stand at the front of the ring. Your left foot will be against the edge of the circle (but not outside of it) if tou are right handed, and if you're left handed, you do the opposite. Step back with your back foot, bending at the hips and knees to lower your center of gravity and gain momentum. Your non-throwing arm should be hanging down almost to the ground as you prepare to explode from the ground up. you will face forward, start to turn and simultaneously stand up and press the shot put off of your neck. Make sure to stay in the circle the entire time.

 

What? That’s it? This seems easy doesn’t it? Yes. What I’ve just explained is known as a power throw. To throw the shot put to your furthest potential, you need to throw with a rotational put technique. To start the rotational put, you will place yourself at the back of the ring with your feet shoulder width apart. Place the shot put in the putting position and bend your knees slightly. Torque your upper body and shift your weight over to your left leg. Swing your right leg around and place it in the middle of the ring. Now, swing your left leg and plant it next to the toe board just like the power throw. You should now be facing toward the back of the ring. You have your right foot under you in the middle of the ring, you have your left foot pointed toward the direction of the throw by the toe board, and you have you are ready to explode into the throw. Now you are in a proper power position and you do exactly the same motions as before. Happy discus throwing!