Throwing

Throwing is the act of propelling an object through the air by rapidly rotating the arm and transferring energy from the lower body through the torso to the throw arm. It occurs in daily activities, games, and organized sports. Accuracy and distance depend on technique, strength, and coordination.

The throw typically involves a sequence of phases: wind-up, early cocking, acceleration, release, and follow-through. The legs and hips initiate momentum, the trunk and shoulder transfer energy to the arm, and the wrist and fingers deliver velocity and stability. Release angle and speed influence the trajectory and distance.

Throwing encompasses a range of activities. In ball sports, throwing includes baseball and football passes, handball throws, and cricket bowling with specific mechanics. In track and field, throwing events include javelin, discus, shot put, and hammer throw, each with sport-specific technique and rules.

Effective throwing requires strength, flexibility, balance, and neuromuscular control. Common injuries involve the shoulder and elbow due to overuse or improper mechanics. Training focuses on progressive throwing workloads, rotator cuff and scapular-stabilizing exercises, proper warm-ups, and technique coaching. Protective equipment is rarely used but appropriate footwear and surfaces help reduce impact.

Throwing traces back to early humans for hunting and tool use, later formalized into sports and competitions. The term covers both casual throwing and formal events, with variations across cultures and sports.