Shot put

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Bundesarchiv Bild 183-44941-0006, Plihan

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Shotput

Bundesarchiv Bild 183-44941-0005, Jiri Skobla

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Shot put area

Shot put is a track and field event involving "throwing" or "putting" a heavy spherical object—the shot—as far as possible. The competition for men has been part of the modern Olympics since their revival in 1896, and women's competition began in 1948. The shot put utilizes principles of physics and athletics, combining strength, technique, and speed.

History

The origins of the shot put can be traced back to the Highland games in Scotland, and it was also part of the Ancient Olympic Games in Greece, where athletes used stones of varying weights. In the 16th century, soldiers used cannonballs in sportive competitions, leading to the modern shot put. The sport evolved over the years, with the current technique of using a circular throwing area and a specific throwing style—either the "glide" or the "spin"—being standardized in the 20th century.

Equipment

The "shot" used in shot put competitions is made of different materials, including iron, brass, or any other metal, and it varies in weight. For men, the shot weighs 7.26 kilograms (16 pounds), and for women, it weighs 4 kilograms (8.8 pounds). The throwing circle is 2.135 meters (7 feet) in diameter, with a toe board about 10 centimeters (4 inches) high at the front of the circle.

Techniques

There are two primary techniques in shot put: the "glide" and the "spin" (or rotational) technique. The glide technique involves a linear movement across the circle, while the spin technique uses a rotational movement. Both require precise technique, balance, and power.

Glide Technique

The glide technique starts with the athlete at the back of the circle, shot placed at the neck, and then gliding forward to the front of the circle to release the shot.

Spin Technique

The spin technique, developed in the 1970s, involves the athlete starting at the back of the circle and then rotating rapidly to gain momentum before releasing the shot.

Rules

The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) governs the rules for shot put. Key rules include: - The shot must be put from the shoulder with one hand only. - The shot must land within the designated sector (34.92 degrees spread) in front of the throwing circle. - The athlete must not leave the circle until the shot has landed, and then must exit from the back half of the circle.

Competitions

Shot put is part of athletics competitions at all levels, from school and amateur leagues to professional and Olympic competitions. Notable shot putters include Randy Barnes, the current men's world record holder, and Natalya Lisovskaya, the women's world record holder.

Training

Training for shot put involves a mix of strength training, technique refinement, and mental preparation. Athletes work on their core, legs, and arms, as these body parts are crucial for the throwing motion. They also practice their technique regularly to ensure they can perform well in competitions.