Coach ,

Mastering the basics of the delivery is one key to increasing throwing distance.

Elite coaches like Mac Wilkins, Al Fuerbach, and Tony Bennett have the experience and understanding of how to set up a big throw.

Let's start with the Grip.

The shot put placement in the hand and in the neck is crucially important to delivery in the shot put. While the hand placement is far less complex the location of the neck that best suits the athlete depends. It takes trial and error in combination with experienced analysis to find what's best.

Al Fuerbach gives a simple explanation for the set up in the hand and neck. 

Link: Grip and Placement

Once the athlete has found a comfortable position in the hand and neck in which to push the implement form, the next step is understanding the timing of the block side and the throwing side. Scott Bennett gives a great view to visually examine the sequence of blocking and throwing actions. 

Link: Proper Release

Once the timing of the hip, block, and finish have been developed you can now focus on the more advanced concept of striking the implement or flipping the shot. Olympic great Mac Wilkins demonstrates a drill that he uses with his athletes to coordinate the timing and load of the wrist, forearm, and hand. 

Link: Flipper Fingers

No matter what level you’re at or what season it’s good to revisit the basic concepts and ensure that these things are cemented in the athletes final delivery. Big throws are coming next season! Fire away!

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