Q&A for How to Throw a Discus

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  • Question
    Why do I have to exit the circle?
    Community Answer
    If you go out the front, they will scratch it. If you go out the back, it is measured.
  • Question
    Can I practice discus with a towel?
    Community Answer
    Yes, practicing discus with a towel helps you work on the technique. It prevents you from only focusing on throwing far.
  • Question
    Should I start my spin facing forwards or backwards? I was taught several different ways.
    Bellsdavie05
    Community Answer
    The full spin starts backwards though you can start forwards if you're just learning the spin. You should do what you are more comfortable doing.
  • Question
    What can be the weaknesses of learning discus?
    Community Answer
    You face a lot of pressure on your back muscles. If the body is not properly warmed up, you risk injuring yourself. The pain also lasts a long time, so a warmup is recommended.
  • Question
    Which finger do I release the discus from?
    Community Answer
    Release it from your index finger which is the finger between your thumb and your middle finger. This will cause the discus to go further, and it'll make the discus spin the way it is meant to, causing it to travel further. Releasing from the index finger is recommended for both left and right handers.
  • Question
    What are the benefits of jumping after release?
    Donagan
    Top Answerer
    That's how you regain your balance after releasing the discus so you don't fall.
  • Question
    What are the best ways to train for the discus throw?
    Community Answer
    Focus on how you release. Practice by holding the discus parallel to the side of your body. Using your index finger, flick the disc upward, rotating it outward at the same time. Catch and repeat.
  • Question
    Should I move rotationally while throwing?
    Community Answer
    Only if you know how to. Beginners should use the half rotation. The full rotation is hard, but you do have to generate enough power to throw the discus. So if you feel comfortable doing the full rotation, go ahead -- but it depends on your ability.
  • Question
    What are the benefits of a good warm up?
    Community Answer
    A warm up is always a good idea; it gets your blood flowing and prepares your muscles for exercise. Always do some simple stretches during your warm up in order to avoid sprains and tension in your muscles.
  • Question
    How can I throw it farther?
    Community Answer
    Try to aim the discus higher, and make sure the spin on the discus is right. If you are spinning, then make sure you are using it effectively. For practicing the spin, start off slow, get all the moves right, and then increase your speed bit by bit.
  • Question
    How do I make the discus rotate in the air after releasing it?
    Community Answer
    You can do this by swishing your grip hand across the side of the discus. Use the back of your hand to rub the edge to spin it, thus maximizing discus throw length.
  • Question
    If I am having a hard time getting the disc high and it keeps going low what are some tips for me?
    Community Answer
    Aim the disc high. If you are doing the spin, then you should probably stop and practice your movements first before doing it again.
  • Question
    How old do I need to be to start discus?
    Community Answer
    I would suggest you start in middle school since the discus is pretty heavy.
  • Question
    How do I start off playing discus?
    Community Answer
    This event is offered through many track & field events.
  • Question
    Is there a trick to throw the discus for long distances?
    Community Answer
    The trick is to aim the discus high. If you can do the spin, then do that, but make sure you are doing the movements right.
  • Question
    How do I spin it off my index finger?
    Community Answer
    Practice rolling the discus on the ground (like when you throw a bowling ball). The discus should roll in an upright position, and it should push off your index finger last. This can be one of the most challenging aspects of discus. The most common release for new throwers is to roll it off the hand so that the pinkie is the last finger to push (backwards). Pushing it from the index finger is a critical skill to master before you start throwing.
  • Question
    Does height affect how far you throw?
    Community Answer
    Height matters, but don't think that it will be a big advantage if you don't practice or you can't get the movements right.
  • Question
    Do I want to throw higher and slower, or lower and faster?
    Community Answer
    Neither. You want to throw higher with your wrist parallel to your shoulder as fast as you can to ensure the disc spins properly and releases farther. Do not put full arm power into it however, but use your whole body.You will know you threw it right when the disc goes far and feels light as you throw it.
  • Question
    What is the average distance for a junior high-schooler?
    Olyvia Fleming
    Community Answer
    For most girls it is around 56'. For boys it is about 70'. Winners are usually 90' (girls) and 110' (boys).
  • Question
    Can the discus be different colors?
    Bellsdavie05
    Community Answer
    Yes, normally there are different colors for the different weights. Some smaller discuses are rubber. As they get larger, they become metal.
  • Question
    How do I let go of it? I throw it straight with a clockwise spin with my left hand, but my friend says I am supposed to let go of it with a counter-clockwise spin so it will move to my left side.
    Donagan
    Top Answerer
    Left-handers should spin clockwise.
  • Question
    Why is my female discus constantly hitting the right side of the net?
    Bellsdavie05
    Community Answer
    It goes to the right side of the net because you are letting go too early or too late.
  • Question
    Why do we hold the discus like that?
    Community Answer
    It maximizes the distance of the throw, and prevents injuries. The worst thing you can do is throw it like a Frisbee.
  • Question
    Is it okay to not train and just throw it?
    Community Answer
    You can injure yourself so always learn first. Use the same stance as shotput, hold the disc like you would a bowling ball and throw it like a Frisbee with the top of your hand up. Follow the directions above for detailed advice.
  • Question
    How should I practice without a discus at hand?
    Donagan
    Top Answerer
    You can use any object of roughly the same size and weight. A men's discus weighs 2 kilograms or just over 4 pounds. A women's discus weighs half that amount.
  • Question
    How do you manage to hold a discus which is too big for your hand? Because a discus of a random size will be given to me by a coach.
    Community Answer
    I doubt your coach will give you a discus which is way out of proportion, but still, you have to get a good grip and wrap your fingers around it to get a nice throw.
  • Question
    What if I can't get it to go straight?
    David Johnson
    Community Answer
    It is going straight. It's just not going where you want it to. To improve your throwing accuracy, check your grip and release technique. Ensure proper body alignment and footwork. Develop core strength and stability. Practice consistency and analyze your throws. Seek guidance from experts.
  • Question
    Does your arm have to be straight when you throw?
    Community Answer
    Yes. That helps generate greater speed and acceleration, resulting in longer throws.
  • Question
    How many weeks or months will it take for me to get to 100ft? My personal best is 48ft, and I'm learning how to do the spin.
    David Johnson
    Community Answer
    The time it takes to reach 100ft can vary greatly depending on individual skills, dedication, and training frequency. Learning the spin technique is a significant step towards improving your performance. With consistent practice and proper coaching, athletes may see notable progress in a few months. Set realistic goals, focus on continuous improvement, and seek guidance from experienced coaches and trainers.
  • Question
    How do I get used to throwing the discus with my index finger? I throw my discus with my middle finger?
    Electric Ride Guide
    Community Answer
    Your fingers ought to be somewhat over the edge of the disk. You can have your record and center fingers together or have every one of your fingers somewhat isolated.
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