Athletic Training

140 ATHLETIC TRAINING Before he learns the scientific way to throw the javelin, the athlete should master a simple throw without either a run or the reverse of the body. As a prelimary the javelin should be gripped in . the manner explained. Then the left foot should be raised just as in put– ting the shot, care being taken to see that the body is properly balanced. The javelin is then pointed upward, at an angle of about 30 degrees, the right arm holding the javelin so that the arm is almost parallel with it. Before the throw begins the right hand hold– ing it should be e~tended as far back as pos– sible, so that the full strength of the right arm and shoulder can be behind it. ' Beginners make the mistake of discharging the javelin without bringing the right arm all the way back. In this way they necessarily reduce the distance of the throw. After the athlete has learned the proper way to hold the javelin, he should practise the re– verse. This is the same exercise that is ex– plained in the chapter on shot putting. The body is turned quickly so that at the end of the run the left and right feet change places, and the javelin is discharged with the right