ATHLETICS: DISCUS

Definition of Discus

Discus is a field event which involves throwing a missile called discuss for a horizontal distance. A competitor is allowed three trials; the throwing is made from within a throwing circle of 2.50m in diameter to a landing sector of 40^o.

 

Table of Specification for Discus

	SEX	WEIGHT
	MEN	2 KG
	WOMEN	1 KG

 

Basic Skills and Techniques in Discus

(i) Grip/Hold

(ii) Stance

(iii) Swing

(iv) Turns

(v) Release

(vi) Follow through the sector

(vii) Recovery

Note: The discus must land within the landing sector which is 40^o and both legs must be behind the metal rim.

 

Execution of Basic Skills and Techniques in Discuss

(i) The hold: The discus is placed on the palm and the spread fingers curl over to hold it.

(ii) The stance: The thrower stands at the rear of the circle with the feet slightly apart and backing the landing sector.

(iii) The swing: The discus is swung to meet the other hand near the shoulder to gather

(iv) The turns: It is the movement of the body towards the direction of throw.

(v) The release: This is done at shoulder level.

(vi) The follow through: This is the position an athlete assumed after the release of the missile.

(vii) Recovery: It is the quick and prompt action taken by an athlete which signifies the end of an action. Note:- All students are expected to draw the throwing sector.

 

Rules and Regulations Governing Discus Throw

(i) The throwing sequence must begin within the sector and ends within the sector.

(ii) The thrower must not step beyond the step board before and after the throw.

(iii) The competitors are credited with the best of their trials

(iv) The missile must land within the throwing sector.

(v) All throwers are expected to back the spectators during the throw.

(vi) Missiles are to be rolled back to the sector after throw and not to be thrown.

 

EVALUATION

1. Differentiate between discus and shot put.
2. State two similarities between shot put and discus.
3. Explain execution of discus throw.

 

See also

ATHLETICS: SHOT PUT

BENEFITS OF RECREATION AND DANCE

RECREATION

PHYSICAL FITNESS

PHYSICAL FITNESS AND BODY CONDITIONING