Coach ,

Ryan Crouser is already the 🐐. Let's break down his technique from one of the greatest who has had a chance to assist Ryan along the way.

Crouser’s method is almost flawless, and his commitment to creating the perfect rhythm is evident. While he certainly inspired the very best from his competition, Ryan was in control from his very first throw. 

How does Crouser make throwing shot put look so easy? An unparalleled commitment to technique as shown in this video (click on image for video)

Technique Back View

Key components to Crouser’s approach include: 

1. Right Foot Flat at "top of Windup"

2. Unwind on Inside of the Big Toe or the Ball of the left foot

3. Left Thigh Vertical.   

4. Right Leg Wide at 9 o'clock

5. Right Foot Under or Behind Knee in Middle of Circle.

6. Right Heel stays up off the ground in the middle.

7. Shoulders and Left Arm stay back and torqued (closed) in Power Position.

8. Turn right foot and Knee fully into throw before Straightening Right Leg 

9. Land with the Right Foot flat, heel down in the Reverse, Foot Perpendicular to the Line of the Throw.

The images show the technique in action:

This side view illustrates the importance of the vertical thigh as indicated by the fact that the left hip is not ahead of the left knee. 

Shoulders and arms are level and Ryan is looking at the horizon. The right foot is slightly behind the right knee which will lead to acceleration. 

Finally, because of the right leg rotation, Ryan turns his right foot & knee into the throw before it straightens with the right foot landing flat and perpendicular to the throw. 

Thank you to Coach Mac Wilkins for illustrating Crouser’s approach and video from Ryan Crouser Gold Medal Shot Put Technique Breakdown. 

Ryan utilized this to win Gold in Tokyo and certainly applying his methods can help your throwers achieve maximum distance. 

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