Coach ,

When working with throwers, there’s one technique tweak that might unlock big gains without confusing your athletes: the Dynamic Drop Glide.

Legendary coach Mark Mirabelli breaks it down—and here are 3 takeaways you can implement immediately to improve shot put performance:

💡 1. The “Drop” Creates Natural Power

Instead of the traditional glide, Mirabelli teaches the Drop Glide—which emphasizes letting the body naturally “drop” before the athlete explodes across the circle. It helps develop rhythm, timing, and reduces overthinking footwork. Especially useful for beginners or intermediate throwers.

Drop Glide

💡 2. Teach the Shot to Stay Pressed In

Too many throwers let the shot drift or drop early. Remind your athletes to press the shot firmly into the neck and keep that elbow high. This helps avoid premature release and keeps the energy directed forward—not sideways.

💡 3. Partner Up for Reps and Rhythm

Mirabelli runs group sessions by rotating athletes through medicine ball drills and shot drills in pairs. The constant motion builds rhythm, reinforces key movements, and keeps throwers engaged. 5 throws each, then rotate.

Thank you Coach Mirabelli for sharing.

👉 If you’d like to learn more check out his full clinic - Dynamic Drop Glide Clinic with Coach Mark Mirabelli

This session is perfect for coaches looking to simplify and maximize their glide shot put coaching.

Let your athletes glide with power—not guesswork.

– The Coaches Clinic Community of Coaches helping Coaches