Purpose
Improves flexibility and allows thrower to build greater momentum for their throw.
Setup
- You need a pole or a flat surface like a wall – something that is strong enough to support the body.
How it Works
- Thrower stands about 3 to 5 feet away (whatever is comfortable) from the pole and reaches out and grabs it at about the 5 foot high level (generally speaking, depending on height).
- Slowly, the athlete lowers his or her midsection toward the ground, keeping their feet and their hands in the starting position.
- The back should be slightly bowed, in order to get the stretch through the midsection.
Coaching Tips
- It may be a good idea to use a spotter for the stretch to make sure the athlete can smoothly get back up.
- Stress to javelin throwers that the more flexible they are, the greater momentum they can build when they coil and release.