Note: This column was first written in 2021. It's being re-published here.
By Robert Marchetti - Coaching Corner
One of the often-overlooked elements of the shot put is the preliminary movements at the back of the ring just before the glide.
The execution of this phase can have a consequential influence on the rest of the throw.
HOLDING THE SHOT
The shot should be positioned against the neck, under the jaw bone. In the hand it rests mainly on the upper area of the palm where calluses typically form from lifting weights. The fingers and thumb should be slightly spread and also in contact. It's also important that the hand is cocked back at the wrist joint. A cocked wrist preserves potential energy to be unleashed later during release.
VARIOUS STANCES
There are a variety of starting stances that throwers utilize at the back of the ring. No one particular way is best. Each individual needs to find one that's most comfortable. Assuming a right-handed thrower, the following are some common example...
