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Javelin Throw


Coming now into the Throwing section of athletic events, the Javelin Throw is one of the most popular Throwing events where athletes throw a Javelin, which is a long spear with a metal head, and try to gain the furthest distance. The discipline was added to the Ancient Olympics in 708 BC as part of the pentathlon and it was executed in two different ways, either for distance or for accuracy in hitting a target. Then in the early 1870s, throwing Javelins was getting popular again in both Sweden and Germany and later also in Finland with more rules and specifications getting introduced at the events. The Javelin Throw also had its debut at the Olympic Games in 1908 for men and in 1932 for women. Let’s dive into the technique in order to get a deeper insight into the complexity of this discipline:

Technique
Throwers must be really precise and careful with their attempts as they have to use huge amounts of energy and strength and at the same time execute a flawless technique as the slightest mistake could result in failure or either less distance. Generally, athletes start the Throw with an approach run to generate the greatest distance possible. For Beginners it can be the case that they are performing a standing throw or a three-quarter throw.

  • First of all, the Grip and Carry are crucial for a proper technique. Athletes use a preferred grip and carry the Javelin overhead while it’s pointing forward. The corded grip marks where you should hold the Javelin and your little finger should be closest to the tip of the implement
  • In the approach you should make sure to accelerate while still maintaining your form and try to get into a crossover position
  • Extend your arm back and keep it towards the direction of where the Javelin will be thrown. Make sure to also extend the other arm so you are more balanced
  • Reposition your body so that you turn your momentum not only forward but also upward
  • Rotate your hips and shoulders to face forward and thrust your throwing arm in a fast but also smooth motion to finally release the Javelin

https://pixabay.com/photos/javelin-throw-thrower-throws-spear-4865653

Redesigns
The Javelin design has been changed already three times over the years, twice for men and once for women, which resulted in different specifications and world records:

  • In 1986, the first redesign resulted out of Uwe Hohn throwing more than 100 meters as athletes would soon exceed the size of the throwing area but also because many flat landings happened back then. As a consequence, the centre of gravity was moved forward by four centimeters.
  • The removal of serrated tails came in 1999
  • For the women, the centre of gravity was also shifted forward in 1999 to prevent it from flying too far.

Equipment Standards
For men, the minimum weight of the Javelin has to be 800g and the length must be at least 260cm. The women’s Javelin should be at least 220cm long and 600g in weight. Athletes also use special spikes that provide more grip and stability for the ankle. Furthermore, athletes can use wrist supports if needed for protection or medical purposes, but gloves are forbidden. Also the use of a throw belt for back and spine protection is common.
Distance and Speed Averages
Elite men athletes can throw the Javelin for a distance between 80 and 90 Meters while for women it is normally in the range of 60 and 70 Meters. As a comparative value, the current world records are 98.48m by Jan Zelezny and 72.28m by Babora Spotakova. The average speed of a throw can reach 20 to 30 meters per second.

Javelin Throw
Javelin throw – Wikipedia