Rules of the Javelin Throw

The Javelin Throw is a Track and Field event. It has been part of the Summer Olympic Games since 1906. The sport is practiced worldwide but is especially popular in the Nordic region of Europe, including Norway, Finland and Sweden. Aside from being a separate event, the javelin throw is also part of the men's decathlon and women's heptathlon in competition.

  1. Required Measurements of a Javelin

    • The javelin spear for men measures between 2.6 and 2.7 meters. The spear for women measures between 2.2 and 2.3 meters. All measurements are determined by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAFF), founded in 1912 in Stockholm, Sweden.

    Required Weight of a Javelin

    • The javelin spear for men must weight at least 800, or 1.70 pounds grams. The spear for women must weigh at least 600 grams, or 1.33 pounds. All weights are also determined by the IAFF and are standard in all levels of competition.

    Field of Play

    • 1. Competitors have a runway to gain momentum for their throw, which measures 4 meters wide and about 30 meters long.
      2. The athlete must not cross the line at the end of the runway at any point or the throw is subject to disqualification.
      3. Once released, the javelin is measured in a straight line from the release point.
      4. Each round consists of 1 attempt and the competition usually lasts 3 to 6 rounds depending on the size of the event.

    Requirements for an Official Throw

    • 1. The IAFF does not allow for non-traditional throwing methods in javelin competition. Competitors must throw in an overhand motion and hold the spear by the grip (usually measuring 150 mm).
      2. There is no spinning allowed.
      3. To count as an official throw after release, the tip of the javelin must break the ground.

    Javelin Throw in the Olympic Games

    • Although the sport of javelin throwing has annual competitions, the most recognizable competition take place in the Summer Olympic Games every 4 years. All rules and requirements listed are standard for Olympic competition. There are 12 participants allowed in both men's and women's javelin finals. Each participant receives three preliminary throws. The top eight qualifiers will then advance to the final group where three additional rounds of throws are attempted. The top throw from those last three rounds is determined the winner.