Popular Track & Field Events
Track and Field is a sport which covers several disciplines which (as the name suggests) take place on either the track and/or field. Popularized across the globe thanks largely to the Olympics, track and field events are commonly viewed at the high school and college level. The main events associated with track and field are specific to running but there are many other types of sports that take place during a track and field event. Listed below are few additional sport categories that occur during a track and field competition.
Jumping Events
Jump events are categorized by events where competitors are judged on the distance they can jump. This can be measured vertically or horizontally. They involve running to gain speed and perfecting the technique. Common jump events include;
High Jump
The high jump, an athlete is tasked with jumping over a bar that is suspended at a particular height. Competitors are allowed a run up before attempting to clear the bar, usually using the Fosbury Flop. If cleared, the bar will be raised a little higher.
Pole Vault
It’s a similar idea to the high jump in that competitors attempt to clear the bar. However, athletes run with a pole and dig it into a metal box on the ground to propel themselves in the air to clear the bar before falling to the crash mat below.
Long Jump
The long jump sees athletes compete to see who can jump the farthest, although it’s not all about the jump. Competitors sprint down a runway before launching off the ground without crossing the fault line. The aim is to cover the most distance before landing in the sand pit.
Triple Jump
It’s similar to the long jump in that athletes sprint down the runway before taking flight. The triple jump includes three stages known as the hop, skip, and jump. Mastering the technique of all three is vital for a good outcome.
Throwing Events
Throwing events see athletes throw a variety of objects, using specific techniques, down the field. Usually, this means throwing from inside a set area and in one specific direction. The track and field events that fall into the category are;
Javelin
Javelin throwers run down a track holding a spear-like object (800g men, 600g women) before launching it down the field. Athletes must hold the javelin in a certain way and release it before the fault line for a throw to be legal.
Shot Put
Athletes competing in the shot put stand inside a circle before throwing a metal ball as far as they can. The shot is held close to the neck before the arm is extended to launch it. The two common techniques are to spin or glide in a bid to gain momentum.
Discus
The discus is a round plastic disc with metal rims, and athletes compete to throw it as far as they can without leaving the 8ft circle. Athletes can spin inside the circle to gain momentum while technique is crucial for optimum distance.
Hammer Throw
A metal ball is connected to a wire, and athletes will spin several times inside a circle before launching it down the field. This is a difficult technique to master while a net is used to guard any wayward throws.
The Final Word
The world of track and field is one of the most demanding but satisfying of any sporting arena. With the right technique, dedication, attire and equipment, you will be giving yourself the best chance of setting new records in no time!
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