An innovative approach to teaching the discus throw is through the use of discus balls and bowling pins. Jim Garnham, University of Buffalo assistant coach, believes that throwing a bowling pin can create muscle memory for throwers and promote the proper mechanics for the discus event.

Discus Balls & Bowling Pins

Drill Summary: The athlete takes a discus ball and executes a wheel drill to throw the ball. After doing a few reps with the discus ball, switch to using a bowling pin. The bowling pin will keep the thrower’s arm extended and help them turn their lower body into the throw.

Keys to the Drill:

1) Work the lower body into the throw.
2) Don’t lift up on the throw.
3) Finish extended.
4) Body should face forward after rotating.

This video came from Championship Productions’ video “Teaching and Coaching the Discus Throw.” View other world class Track & Field videos!