Power Position for Discus

In the previous blog, we discussed the grip, carry and release of the discus throw. In this blog, we will discuss the discus throw from the power position. It is important for the athlete to focus on speed, technique, and strength.2 The athlete must have a successful power position in order to have a successful throw.  Harsha helps with a simple breakdown for athletes to be able to master the technique.

Power Position Throw:1

• The athlete should use cones when learning to throw from the power position.
• Focus on the hips leading during the power position throws.
• During the throw the athlete should focus on their body moving from hips, legs, and then arm.
• To begin the throw turn the right hip towards the front of the ring.
• When the hips begin to move the legs will extend in an upward motion.
• Then the left arm will be swept up and around throughout the throw
• When the left arm reaches the front of the ring the athlete will bend their arm so they are able to block with the left arm. (Like they are elbowing someone who is behind them.)
• Then the athlete will release the disc.

Below is a list of drills athletes can do to aid in a successful power position throw.1

• “Heel turns with partners”- the drill helps focus on the exaggeration of the hips being used.
• Athlete starts the the power position without the discus
• One partner will place near the right foot of the thrower.
• The thrower will focus on trying to explode through his/her partner’s hand. This will help the athletes work on quick foot speed during their throws.

• “Cone Throwing”- cones can be used to work on any part of the athlete’s throw
• Using the cone helps the athlete focus on the technique of the throw instead of the distance the disc is going.
• Cones can be used to work on throws inside.
• Throwing with cones can help with a long pull

• “1-2 Drill”- The drill is used to help the athlete keep the disc back during the throw.
• Thrower is in power position with the disc in their right hand.
• On the 1 count the athlete slings his left arm into the throwing direction and turns his heel out.
• On the 2 count the athlete completes the throw. It is not meant to go far.

References:

1Harsha, M. (n.d.). Discus Training Progression. In National Throws Coaches Association. Retrieved from http://www.nationalthrowscoachesassociation.com/basic_technique_for_discus_throwing.htm

2Mackenzie, B. (2002) Discus [WWW] Available from:https://www.brianmac.co.uk/discus/