Javelin throw is one of the most technically-challenging track and field disciplines. A javelin thrower’s movement can be broken down into several phases and every tiny action matters. Athletes seek to optimise their actions during each phase to hurl the javelin further into the horizon.

Here’s a breakdown.

The grip

It all begins with the grip. The athlete holds a synthetic/cotton cord wrapped around the javelin at the centre of gravity. There are three popular grips.

American grip: The thumb (inner side, closer to the throwing shoulder) and the index finger (outer side) are placed at the top of the cord while the remaining three fingers are placed around it. The index finger is key. “Make sure the pointing (index) finger is tied to the grip (cord) to transfer most of the energy,” 2016

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