The associations of selected technical parameters with discus throwing performance: a cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Sports Biomechanics
• Athletic Performance Analysis

Background:

• Discus throwing performance is influenced by complex biomechanical factors.
• Understanding sex-specific technical parameters is crucial for optimizing training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between key technical parameters and discus throwing performance.
• To identify sex-based differences in the biomechanics of elite discus throwers.

Main Methods:

• Utilized 3D motion capture to analyze 94 discus throws from major competitions.
• Quantified hip-shoulder separation, trunk tilt, and arm elevation at critical instants.
• Analyzed technical parameter trends across performance levels for both sexes.

Main Results:

• Female discus throwers showed performance correlations with hip-shoulder/shoulder-arm separation and trunk tilt throughout the throw.
• Male discus throwers' performance was primarily linked to hip-shoulder separation just before release.
• Significant sex differences were observed in the relationship between technique and throwing distance.

Conclusions:

• Elite female discus throwers require refined technique across the entire throwing motion.
• Elite male discus throwers may achieve greater distances with a more uniform technique, potentially leveraging physical strength.
• Training programs should consider sex-specific biomechanical strategies for discus throwers.