Discus: Grip and Swing

Grip by centrifugal force

The disc grip is unique in that it does not involve actively "gripping" the object with the hand at rest.

The disc is held with the last phalanges of the fingers (index, middle, ring, and little finger), which curve slightly over the edge.

The thumb rests flat on the disc surface only for stability, not for pressure.

The coach must demonstrate that, if the athlete places the hand vertical and still, the disc falls off.

What keeps the disc attached to the hand during the throw is the centrifugal force generated by the spin. Therefore, the arm must be kept long and relaxed like a rope.

Tightening the forearm or flexing the elbow is the number one mistake, as it shortens the leverage and reduces the linear velocity at the edge of the disc.

Preliminary Swings: Establishing Range

Before initiating the spin, the athlete performs static preliminary swings (winds) within the circle.

The goal is not to gain speed (the real speed comes from the legs), but to establish the rhythm, relax the upper body and, most importantly, establish the maximum range of motion.

The athlete brings the disc as far back as possible behind his right shoulder (for right-handers), rotating the trunk as far as possible.

At the farthest point of the swing, a stretch should be felt in the pectoralis and shoulder.

It is vital that the feet remain static or pivot slightly, but without lifting.

Generally, one or two swings are done; doing more usually generates unnecessary tension or dizziness.

Starting position and the inverted "T".

The starting position for the swing is with your back to the direction of release, feet slightly wider than shoulder width apart and knees bent.

The weight is evenly distributed. The arms are usually extended out to the sides. The coach is looking for a balanced, athletic stance.

At the end of the last backward swing, the athlete should reach a dead center where the disc is "miles back" and the left arm is pointing forward or across.