Hammer throw

Hammer Throw (PSF)

Hammer throw

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Scottish hammer throw illustration

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John Flanagan

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Hammerthrow wire

Hammer throw is a track and field event in which athletes throw a heavy metal ball attached to a wire and grip, known as a "hammer," as far as possible. The hammer throw is one of the four throwing events in regular track and field competitions, along with the discus throw, javelin throw, and shot put. The sport is governed by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), now known as World Athletics.

History

The origins of the hammer throw trace back to Tara, Ireland, where the ancient Celts introduced the Tailteann Games around 2000 BCE. These games included various forms of throwing and jumping events. The hammer used in these ancient games was not the sophisticated implement used today but rather a simple wooden handle attached to a heavy stone. The modern version of the hammer throw, with a metal ball and a wire, evolved in Scotland and was included in the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 for men. Women's hammer throw was later added to the Olympics in 2000.

Equipment

The hammer consists of three parts: the metal ball, the wire (or cable), and the grip. The weight of the hammer is 7.26 kilograms (16 lb) for men and 4 kilograms (8.8 lb) for women. The length of the hammer, including the wire and grip, must not exceed 1.215 meters for men and 1.175 meters for women.

Technique

The technique for the hammer throw involves swinging the hammer two to three times around the head and then executing a series of turns (usually three or four) within a seven-foot diameter circle before releasing it into the air. The athlete must balance power, rhythm, and technique to achieve maximum distance. The throw is legal only if the hammer lands within a 35-degree sector marked on the field.

Competitions

Hammer throw competitions are part of most major athletics competitions, including the Olympic Games, the World Athletics Championships, and the Commonwealth Games. Athletes are typically given three to six throws, depending on the level of competition, with only the longest throw counting towards the final result.

Records

As of the last update, the men's world record is held by Yuriy Sedykh, with a throw of 86.74 meters, set in 1986. The women's world record is held by Anita Włodarczyk, with a throw of 82.98 meters, set in 2016.

Training

Training for the hammer throw involves not only technical work on the throwing technique but also a significant amount of strength and conditioning work. Athletes focus on building explosive strength, flexibility, and balance to improve their performance. Core exercises, weightlifting, and specific drills to improve footwork and technique are integral parts of a hammer thrower's training regimen.

Safety

Due to the high speeds and weights involved, safety is a major concern in hammer throw competitions and training. Athletes, coaches, and officials must ensure that the throwing area is clear and that the hammer is thrown within the designated sector to prevent injuries and accidents.