Javelin throw game: history, rules, measurements and techniques

Javelin throw history

Javelin throw, athletics (track-and-field) sport of throwing a spear for distance, included in the ancient Greek Olympic Games as one of five events of the pentathlon competition.

Javelin throwing involves a spearlike implement that is hurled with an over-the-shoulder motion at the end of an approach…

Javelin throw Measurements

The javelin that is used in modern international men’s competition is a spear of wood or metal with a sharp metal point. It is constructed in accordance with a detailed set of specifications published by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF). Its overall length must be at least 260 cm (102.4 inches) and its weight at least 800 grams (1.8 pounds). The women’s javelin is somewhat shorter and lighter—a minimum 220 cm (86.6 inches) long and 600 grams (1.3 pounds) in weight.

Javelin throw rules

Knowledge of throwing techniques well help you emerge as a winner in a competition. You must also be aware with various rules of a match else you will earn a penalty even after your best throw. So here are some of the important Javelin throw rules.

• Holding the javelin must be done at the grip part and should always be maintained above the shoulder level.
• For valid throw, the javelin must lie before the specified zone and its tip should hit the ground.
• There is a special marking line on the runway within which the athlete needs to throw.
• The athlete should not leave the ground until the javelin lands on the ground.
• After the throwing action has been made, the thrower should not turn back towards the pointing direction, until it lands.
• The number of throws allowed per athlete is same as that of the discus throw.
• Once the competition has started, the athletes cannot use the perimeter for practise purpose.
• Using any device that may assist the thrower in throwing is strictly prohibited. For example, tapping of fingers are not allowed unless there is a wound.
• The throw will be considered as a foul in the following cases −
• Improper throw of the javelin in the attempt.
• Demarking of the line with any body part.
• Player going out of the marking line while throwing
• The tip of the javelin lies outside the edges of the landing sector.
• The time is increased to 1 minute if there are 2-3 number of competitors. In case only one competitor is left, time is increased to 2 minutes.

Javelin throw techniques

Here are the basic Javelin throw techniques to keep in mind:

1. Approaching the Throw

• Grip the pole correctly.
• Hold the javelin up near your head
• Take the "Approach Run."
• Perform the "Withdrawal."
• Make the "Transition."
  

2. Performing the Delivery

• Do the "Pre-Delivery Stride."
• Perform the "Delivery."
• Move into "Recovery."
• Keep practicing.

Javelin throw techniques