Success in Athletics and how to obtain it

THROWING THE JAVELIN 195 Diagram 35 represents a javelin, drawn somewhat out of proportion for the purpose of illustration. Let c be the centre of gravity of the whole javelin; if it ~e suspended or balanced at this point it will remain in equilibrium. This now divides it into two parts (not of equal lengths), each of which, again, has a centre of gravity at a and b respectively; and it is these two centres of gravity which keep the whole weapon in equilibrium when held in the hand. Now, the force applied in throwing the javelin ,, must pass through its centre of gravity "-namely, at c, which is the centre of the weight of the whole body. But supposing for the minu~e that the javelin be thrown with the hand grasping it at b, as just stated the whole weight to be moved lies in c, and therefore any force applied behind this point must be "push." a.. , _______ _ a. Diagram 36. Again, supposing it to be held at a and thrown, as this point is in front of c, it naturally follows that the force applied must be "pull." " Pull" in throwing would be far less likely to produce " error" than "push," as will be seen from diagram 36.