How to Train for Tire Throwing

Tire throwing provides a creative way to gauge upper-body strength. From amateur competitions at county fairs to skills assessments of professional athletes, the goal of tire throwing is to achieve the greatest distance on each throw. Generally, competitors release the tire after performing a spinning move like that used by discus throwers. Another technique propels the tires from between the legs, much like a "granny-style" free throw in basketball. Regardless of the motion used, athletes train for tire throwing by strengthening their arms and core.

Things You'll Need

  • Weights
  • Medicine ball
  • Tires
  • Tape or chalk
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Instructions

    • 1

      Build arm strength through a series of repetitive exercises. Lift weights from the ground, bending your elbow and bringing your hand toward your shoulder. Use dumbbells, large pails of water or bags filled with sand and gradually increase the weight as you progress in your training regimen.

    • 2

      Strengthen your upper-body and core muscles using a medicine ball. Practice overhead throws and build up your repetitions by swinging the ball between your legs. Swing the medicine ball from side to side to begin working on a throwing motion for the tire competition.

    • 3

      Improve footwork and agility if you are choosing the discus method of throwing. Lay out two rows of 10 tires and drill by stepping through the hole in the middle, increasing your speed each time. Mark two lines on the pavement or sidewalk about 10 feet apart with tape or chalk and run or sidestep between the two, changing directions quickly when you reach the marks. Practice your move by spinning or stepping quickly to the throwing line, which is similar to the foul line in bowling.

    • 4

      Perfect your throwing technique. Concentrate on developing momentum with the tire and finding the correct release point for maximum distance. Ask another person to critique your efforts and watch whether you execute legal throws by staying behind the line.