Athletic Training

THE HAMMER THROW 129 When he can do this properly there will be time enough to master the double turn. As profiQiency in making the turn within a small circle is acquired it is possible to use three turns, but this should never be attempted until one has thoroughly mastered the single and double turns. After the athlete has learned how to swing the hammer he should practise releasing it without making any turn. To do this he should let the hammer whirl around the head three times and then still without making any turn release it over the left shoulder. He cannot begin too early to master accuracy in direction. It may take two or three weeks to learn how to swing the hammer and release it properly without making ~ turn, but the mastery of this is essential and should be learned faithfully. Next, the athlete is ready to practise the single turn. Since form is an absolute neces– sity, it is not necessary to practise this within the 7-foot ring. The feet should be placed about ~4 inches apart, the left foot thrown back about 6 inches in a parallel line, with the right foot gripping the ground firmly and