Hammer Coaching Information

The Hammer throw event originates from the Celtic nations where the Tailteann games took place. There was a Celtic hero named Cuchulainn who was able to grip a chariot wheel by its axle and throw it further than any other person. This was later a boulder attached to the end of the handle or stick. This new event was practiced at festivals honoring Thor, the god of thunder.

During the Middle Ages, hammer throwing popularity grew. It is believed that due to a drawing of King Henry VIII throwing a sledgehammer helped create the name hammer throwing. His hammer throw was and still is one of the main events in highland games.

This Highland games model was then modified into a wire and handle into the hammer we know today varying only in weight dependant on sex and age.

Hammer technical model

There are many different opinions of what the correct hammer technique is. However, the important factor in each technique is the individual. As every individual and every coach has their opinion on which technique is correct is right for them this makes it hard for me to personally comment on which way is the best for everyone. My only strong opinion is that everyone is different and not one individual has the same technique as the next.

Although there are some factors of the hammer throw that should run common in every good technique.

*Smooth and controlled swings

*Turns screwing feet into the circle

*Accelerate the ball throughout the throw

*Keep straight arms

*Deliver the hammer up tall in full extension.

Hammer Practices

Common hammer drills include;

*multiple turns, the more turns you can do well the better.

*swing turns. These help with technique and also hammer strength

*variation of weights, lengths of wire and objects to turn with

Important factors that most throwers do not do enough of is:

Core exercises

Sprint work

Resistance training.

For more guidance Please see: Hammer Throwing A. Bondarchuk

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