Javelin in athletics
This field event requires competitors to throw a long metal implement called a javelin as far as possible.
Stage one
- Hold the javelin in the fold of the hand along the length of the palm.
- Grip the back of the javelin cord with the thumb and ensure the first two joints of the index finger are behind the cord.
Stage two (approach run)
- A distance of between 13 to 19 strides away from the throwing line should be used for the run up. In addition, place an additional marker five steps away from the throwing line.
- Hold the javelin at head height, with the arm bent and the elbow pointing forward.
- Ensure the palm of your hand is facing upwards and begin running with your hips high and the javelin parallel to the ground.
- Maintain a controlled increasing speed throughout the run-up.
Stage three
- On reaching the second marker, place the right foot down and move the throwing arm straight forward and then back until the arm is fully stretched at shoulder height.
- Begin to bring the hips around and turn so the left shoulder is facing the throwing line and keep the feet pointing forward.
- Keep driving the right leg forwards and upwards and the javelin pointing in the direction of the throw.
Stage four
- On the penultimate step, begin to lower the back of the javelin, keep it close to the head with the point in line of the eyebrows.
- At the same time, push off the left leg and take a longer, flatter drive step off the right leg.
- Begin to lean back and land the left leg in front of the right leg before the right foot touches the ground.
- As the right foot touches the ground, keep it ahead of the hips and shoulders, the heel is quickly lifted and rotates clockwise until the foot finishes up on the little toe.
- Keep the shoulders in line with the direction of the throw and the left arm across the chest.
Stage five
- Bring the left leg forward and land flat-footed with toes pointing forward.
- Keep the left leg braced and straight and the left leg lands soon after the right foot.
- With both legs on the ground, turn the right hip quickly forward and up to bring it square with the delivery area. The chest and shoulders must follow.
- The right elbow will follow by rotating outwards and up, alongside the head, while the right shoulder is pulled through and the arm forward and upward extension.
- The delivery arm must start its final action when the hand is above the shoulder.
- The launching takes place above the left foot. The outward rotation of the elbow along with the release of the fingers on the javelin causes the javelin to rotate clockwise to create stability during flight.