The legs are crucial for generating power and momentum in the shot put. Specifically, the left leg (for right-handed throwers) drives and stabilizes during the glide and delivery phases.
Here's a breakdown of leg usage in the shot put, based on the "glide" technique (the provided video focuses on this):
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The Glide: The glide is initiated with the legs. The athlete pushes off with their dominant leg (right leg for a right-handed thrower) and glides across the circle.
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Drive Leg (Right Leg for a Right-Handed Thrower): The primary function of the drive leg is to propel the athlete across the circle, generating momentum toward the front.
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Kick/Block Leg (Left Leg for a Right-Handed Thrower): As the athlete glides across the circle, the left leg plays a critical role:
- Flat Left: At the front of the circle, the goal is to have a "flat left," meaning the left foot lands relatively flat on the ground.
- Semi-Bent Knee: Ideally, the left leg should have a slight bend at the knee upon landing at the front of the circle. This allows for better transfer of momentum and a more powerful block.
- Targeting Drive Position: Focus on driving the left leg towards the middle of the toe when landing. This helps ensure proper positioning for the throw.
- Stabilization: The left leg acts as a block, halting the linear momentum and converting it into rotational force. A solid, stable left leg is essential for a powerful throw.
In summary, the legs are used to initiate the movement, generate power through the glide, and provide a stable base for transferring that power into the throw. The left leg, in particular, is crucial for blocking and converting linear motion into rotational force during the delivery phase.
