Strength training for throwers(Charlie).

Expert Discussion Strength Training
1

Charlie, would it be important for a thrower to not enter into as long a strength maintenance phase as say a sprinter since their event is more dependant upon strength? For example, sprinters and throwers of relatively equal abilities, background, etc. where the sprinter might be in strength maintenance for 4-6 weeks but the thrower might need and benefit more from only 3-5 weeks before the peak competition. What are your thoughts on this? Thanks again for filling in the gaps for all of us.

2

Good question Pioneer.

I found that I could go either way with weights (in gym stuff). But it related more to specific hammer strength work during training. If I was limited to throwing competition or lighter weights I needed to implement a shorter maintenance, but if I was able to throw 8 or 9 kg hammers weights could be go to a longer maintenance (10% less than RM).

In regard to the maintenance phase whether I could have a shorter maintenance, I think it is important what exercises you did. If you were not doing olympic lifting or variations this might not be the way to go. Inherently OL are quicker movements than say deadlifts.

Just some thoughts

3

Just another thought

Would also relate to event was involved. As all the throws are completely different.

4

Here’s a link to a post about peaking on a throwing website. John Smith is an excellent coach, at Ohio State I think. Hope this relates.
http://209.170.226.213/cgi-bin/kcarr/discmes.cmd?file=2001071707467

5

Yes. The maintenance phase for a thrower must be shorter and the number of training cycles more, as there are less variables to rotate (no SE for example).

6

When considering the Javelin as more of a speed event, wouldnt this call for a longer maintenance phase, (comparatively).

7

I would think it should be slightly longer.

8

I was having a look at some of my old hammer training journals. Generally speaking I was throwing an 8 kg up to 2 weeks before major comp or near max snatches for the same period but not both.

Shot Put could even use a shorter period than the other three events I guess.

9

Thanks guys, this will help to plan their(throwers)weight program. Makes sense when the throwing itself is heavier that the weights would not need to be, at least not for as long a phase as would otherwise be necessary. You are right about the John Smith of throwing, CD, besides being a top throws coach he is hilarious-met him at a track/field camp in NY 2 years ago and he has a lot of terrific track and field related stories.