How to Teach the Shot Put Throw

The shot put throw is a key event in track and field activities. The thrower releases the shot or shot put, a heavy sphere, while staying within a small circle. The object of the event is to toss the shot put as far as possible. Teaching the shot put throw to beginners is easy and can prevent injury or disappointment. Emphasizing the grip, stance and release will keep your students safe and throwing far in no time.

Instructions

    • 1

      Demonstrate the proper way to hold the shot put. The shot should be in the palm of the dominant hand and supported slightly by the thumb. Place the shot put next to your neck under the ear and rest it on the shoulder.

    • 2

      Explain the importance of using the whole body in the release of the shot put. The eyes, arms, hips, feet and legs are all important. Stress the importance of not throwing the shot put like a ball as beginners will want to do.

    • 3

      Show your students a basic power throw stance. With your hips, turn away from the direction you are throwing. Shift your weight from your right leg to the left leg as you turn facing the direction you wish to throw, or from left to right for left-handed throwers.

    • 4

      Make your students practice releasing the shot put safely with a softball or other lighter ball to avoid injury. To release the shot put, the thrower moves the arm straight out like he is throwing a punch. The elbow needs to stay high and should be straight at the end of the release. Tell your students to keep their eyes straight up as they throw to encourage the shot put to move in intended direction. At the end of the release, you must flip your wrist with your palm facing the ground for extra distance.

    • 5

      Teach your students the half-turn throw, in which they will rotate their bodies 180 degrees as they release the shot put. This increases your momentum and maximizes distance, but should not be taught immediately for safety issues. Face away from where you want to throw and rotate your body, keeping your knees slightly bent as you release the shot put.