Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
and easily achievable. The force applied to the dart, though still a critical aspect
of the throw, is not so great as to hit and penetrate a moving live prey. However,
in this instance extreme accuracy is vitally important; the difference between
success and failure is a matter of millimeters. It would seem to follow that, in
throwing actions, power and speed are achieved at the expense of accuracy.
The separate phases of a throwing action are easily identified, as shown in the
following example of an overarm throwing action.
Phase One: Preparatory Phase
• The figure begins with both legs side by side, holding a ball in one hand
and facing in the direction in which the throw will be made.
• A step is taken backward into the anticipation position. This is achieved by
the leg on the same side of the body as the arm that will throw the ball mov-
ing into a position backward of the body. The legs are now held apart, one in
front of the other, with the body no longer facing squarely in the direction of
the throw but angled slightly. The body is completely balanced at this point.
•
The head continues to face in the direction of the throw, with eye contact
being maintained on the target.
•
The throwing arm is extended backward, with the ball held up around
shoulder level. The nonthrowing arm may be held slightly away from the
body and in the direction in which the throw will be made.
Phase Two: Execution Phase
•
The second phase of the action generally begins with a movement at the
ankles. At this point the entire figure begins to pivot forward.
•
This is followed quickly by a forward movement of the legs. This action
continues quickly with a dynamic action moving through the body
upward to the hips, a rotation in the torso that generates momentum
in the upper body. The throwing arm is still held in a backward position
at this point.
•
This action continues with the rotation of the shoulders that now coincides
with the forward motion of the upper arm.
•
The nonthrowing arm is held out from the body and rotates backward as a
result of the twist at the shoulders.
•
The whole of the upper body rotates and moves forward, with the weight
of the body almost entirely being shifted onto the front foot while the
nonthrowing arm, still held away from the body, swings backward.
•
The throwing arm now quickly moves forward, with the forearm extending
forward of the body.
Phase Three: Resulting Phase
•
The throwing arm has now become fully extended, with the result that
the ball is propelled forward from the hand at speed. Additional thrust is
added by a rapid forward movement at the wrist while the fingers extend,
resulting in the hand being held in an open position.
