How to throw the javelin in under 10 minutes

Summary

In this instructional video, Coach Halley teaches the basics of javelin throwing in under 10 minutes. Key points include the correct grip, foot positioning, and body movement. The video progresses from standing throws to three-step crossover throws, and then to five and seven-step approaches. Emphasis is placed on warming up, using proper equipment, practicing with purpose, and taking care of oneself post-exercise to prevent injuries.

Takeaways

• 🏃‍♂️ **Start with the Grip**: Learn the 'finished grip' where the middle finger and thumb are above the cord, keeping the javelin in line with your arm.
• 🎯 **Aim Correctly**: Ensure the javelin is aimed straight towards the target to avoid throwing it off course.
• 👣 **Foot Positioning**: Align your feet properly for stability, with the back foot staggered and ready to push off.
• 🔄 **Body Movement**: Practice moving from back foot to front foot to generate momentum for the throw.
• 🚀 **Mechanical Throw**: Begin the throw with the right foot (if right-handed) angled towards the target, followed by a sequence of knee, hip, torso, and shoulder turns.
• 🤸‍♂️ **Basic Throws**: Start with standing throws to get comfortable with the motion before progressing.
• 📈 **Three-Step Throw**: Introduce a 'crossover' step to add momentum to your throw, transitioning from a standing throw to a more dynamic approach.
• 📚 **Five-Step Throw**: Build on the three-step by adding two more steps, marking a clear progression in your approach.
• 🔢 **Seven-Step Throw**: For beginners, a seven-step approach is recommended, adding further steps to increase speed and power.
• 🏋️‍♂️ **Warming Up**: Always warm up properly to prevent injuries and ensure your body is ready for the physical demands of javelin throwing.
• 👟 **Equipment**: Use the right equipment like javelin shoes with spikes for better traction and confidence during throws.
• 🎯 **Accuracy Practice**: Practice throwing straight at your target, just as spears were used for hunting in the past.
• 🧊 **Post-Throw Care**: After throwing, take care of your body with proper cooling down and icing to aid recovery for future practices.

Q & A

What is the first thing discussed in the javelin throwing tutorial?

The first thing discussed is the grip, with an emphasis on the 'finished grip' where the middle finger and thumb are above the cord, allowing the javelin to go down the length of the arm.

Why is the grip important in javelin throwing?

The grip is important because it ensures the javelin stays in a straight line when drawn back, which is crucial for accurate throwing.

What is the significance of the 'high five' gesture mentioned in the script?

The 'high five' gesture is used to demonstrate how to properly place the javelin in the hand before dropping it over the shoulder for the throw.

How should your feet be positioned for javelin throwing?

Your feet should be positioned so that they are under your hips, with the back foot dropped back if you are right-handed, to give stability and prepare for the throw.

What is the purpose of the body movement from back foot to front foot?

The body movement from back foot to front foot is to create momentum and a direction of movement that aids in the throwing process.

What is the mechanical piece of the throw that starts with the right foot?

The mechanical piece of the throw that starts with the right foot involves the foot, knee, hip, torso, and shoulder turning in sequence to generate power for the throw.

What is a standing throw in javelin?

A standing throw is a basic throw where you start with the hand up, rock back onto the back foot, and then move to the front foot over the top of the body to throw.

What is the purpose of the three-step throw or crossover throw?

The three-step throw, also known as the crossover throw, is used to add momentum to the throw by incorporating a step and jump off the back foot before transitioning into the throw.

How does the five-step throw differ from the three-step throw?

The five-step throw differs from the three-step throw by adding two more steps to the approach, resulting in a longer run-up and potentially more momentum.

What advice is given for those who are struggling to throw the javelin straight?

For those struggling to throw straight, the advice is to practice throwing the javelin straight at the target during warm-ups and to remember the historical accuracy required for spears used in hunting.

What are the final thoughts shared in the tutorial for javelin throwers?

The final thoughts include warming up properly, having the right equipment like spiked shoes, making every throw count with purpose, practicing to throw straight, and taking care of oneself with proper cool-down and icing to prevent injury.