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These three concepts shared by Olympians and top coaches (Vésteinn Hafsteinsson, Mac Wilkens and Mohamad Saatara) focus your training and development of your throwers on the rhythm, power, and the release to produce the speed necessary for a strong throw.

1. Perfecting the Swing on the Rotation

Here’s a look at the four-time Olympian from Iceland, Vésteinn Hafsteinsson explaining the importance of the swing and how the position varies between athletes, but also points out the consistency that is needed with this step in throwing the discus correctly. (Click on image for video)

PRACTICAL THROWING SESSION

2. Obtaining Proper Power Position

The “Power Position” or commonly called “Blocking Up” can best be defined as getting your left foot down in front of the circle. The desired distance that will be achieved comes from the work that was put in at the back of the circle. This “power chain” starts with the back foot turning and moves through the knee and hips. Similar to commonly used explosive exercises like box jumps. The final lower body position should be in triple extension.

Olympian and Coach Mac Wilkens describes his views on the importance of a proper "Power Position" in the discus.  (Click on image for video)

The Power Position

3. It’s All in the Release 

The most valuable part of the discus throw is in the release. The discus should be released in such a manner that it rotates clockwise for right-handed throwers and counter-clockwise for left-handed throwers. A proper release should come out of the front of the hand with the index finger and the thumb being the last part of the hand leaving the discus.

Mohamad Saatara from the University of California outlines what you need to know to have a successful season coaching your throwers. Here he discusses critical concepts to focus on, especially maximizing the release velocity with proper flight of the discus. (Click on image for video)

Critical Concepts

Knowing and perfecting these three key areas will dramatically improve the consistency and distance when throwing the discus. Examining beginners to advanced throwers – the quality of how you practice the grip - spin - power position - to the release will have a massive impact on distance and consistency in the discus throw.

Keep perfecting your craft, 

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