How to Throw a Javelin

Okay, this is for those who aspire to be like Linda Stahl or Goldie Sayers or Duncan Atwood or Steve Backley. Do these names ring a bell? Let me help you with this. These are the names of those athletes who have carved a nice name for themselves in javelin throw. Javelin throw has been a regular feature of Olympics almost since it started. Although it seems easy on first look, it is not. Of course, it is not something which cannot be mastered. You will just need some passion, grit, perseverance and well, a slight bit of determination to know how to throw a javelin and to excel in it! If you are game, here is throwing light on this topic.

Javelin Throw - The Right Way

With consistent practice, as mentioned initially, the skill to throw a javelin properly can be obtained. For a javelin throw to be executed properly, the grip is a very important aspect. Nevertheless, let's take a look at the actual process for throwing a javelin which is an important part of athletics.

Step 1
Considering that you are right-handed, place the pointer finger of your right-hand at the back end of the grip. The thumb has to be parallel to the javelin on the grip. Then hold the javelin properly and bend the elbow, up. Now the javelin will be by your ear.

Step 2
Begin your throw by pulling your arm straight back, behind you. Pull it back just so that the javelin tip comes near your face. After that you will have to take a step with your left foot. Then pull your elbow forward, but keep your elbow as close as to the body and as high as possible. If the elbow is dropped, there will be no power in the throw.

Step 3
Then you will have to push forward with your left foot on the ground. That is once your javelin is pulling through and is ready be released. Finally, release the javelin.

This was in short, about how to go about javelin throw. That is the basic technique, if you want to learn to throw a javelin. But we are not done as yet! There are a few elements of technique which have to be taken stock of.

Technique for Javelin Throw

The grip, the build to the throw and throw movements and the final release are all a part of the javelin thrown technique.

Grip
There are basically three common grips used in javelin throw. These are:

• Holding the javelin in the palm of your hand between your index and middle finger, with the fingertips against the top part of the cord grip.
• Holding the javelin in the palm of your hand. Here just the index finger against the top of the cord grip.
• Holding the javelin in the palm of your hand with the middle finger against the top of the cord grip. The index finger will run straight along the javelin.

The Stance and the Throwing Movement
For knowing how to throw javelin right, you have to stand sideways to the throw line with the left foot closest to the line for the right-handers. The feet will be shoulder width apart. Your head is turned to face in the direction of the throw and the body will be faced to the side. Now while you throw the javelin, let the weight be on your right foot. At the same time, your arm will have to be behind you, straight with your chest facing to the side. Ultimately during your javelin throw finish, the last part of your body which will be touched by javelin is the top part of your index finger. Left arm has to be out in the front, it acts like a block.

That was how to throw a javelin! Ultimately you cannot just read and know the exact technique! For that, it is always good to go for javelin throw training! All the best!