To Pull?

How many people feel like they are getting most of their throw from a big pull just before the release vs. constant acceleration?

I've noticed some tend to more move the hammer very fast, while others don't seem to be swinging it very quickly but give a huge pull at the end.  Both appear to be effective in generating big throws for different folks.

Any thoughts on the difference in technique and why someone might want to use one vs. the other?

 

You should be doing both to a point.  Every thrower I've observed from Novice to Pro will progressively accelerate through the rotations of a hammer throw and then make an all out effort at the end.  That should be standard technique.

I think there are two things you are observing.  The first is that not all athletes reach maximum acceleration until the last rotation.  This is as it should be.  While you should be increasing speed with each rotation, the first two rotations - If you use a three rotation throw - are also to set up for the final rotation and heave.  If you observe the As and Pros, the hammer will move further forward with each rotation.  You are aiming for a certain point where you can achieve maximum acceleration while, staying on your feet and achieving an ideal power position to throw from.

Some work into this slower, others more quickly.  I notice that throwers who use four rotations seem to get to full acceleration by the 3rd round.  I guess it works for them.

In the set up rotations, pull down, then let the hammer move on the upward stroke with momentum only.  This will help you maintain control.  On the last rotation give it all you got through the entire range of motion.

Thanks, that gives me some things to think about.  Now I just need to try and translate it into action without falling on my a**.

Tim Pinkerton wrote: The two slow winds and one big powerful one was used by Sanford but that guy had an incredibly strong pull.  I think he could snatch over 300.

Close. A few years back he told me his PR was 290 from the hang. Pretty damned impressive for a guy who is around 6'5". In my opinion very few have the levers or the power to throw REALLY far using the American style. Plus, your timing has to be dead solid perfect.

Fat Elvis wrote: are you hammer booted up Marbry?

Not yet, I've been thinking about rigging some up to try.  Been trying to work on balance.