THROWING TECHNIQUES

Throwing is a challenging movement for a CWVI, as they cannot assess the trajectory they need to produce.

When teaching a child to throw, it is important to provide feedback on the direction and the distance traveled by the thrown object.

In the following video, the instructor helps the girl position and orient herself correctly to throw the vortex. A mat is used to facilitate proper foot placement. A guide provides verbal feedback to indicate where to direct the throw.
At the end of the throw, the athlete is encouraged to walk along the vortex’s trajectory while counting the steps to gain awareness of the throw’s length.

With the necessary adaptations, the teaching progression for acquiring the throwing motion does not differ from that of sighted children. Regarding the vortex throw (used as a preparatory exercise for the javelin), for example, the progression continues with the teaching of the run-up.

Throwing Techniques – Regulations

The WPA includes shot put, discus throw, and javelin throw competitions for athletes with visual impairments.

The role of the guide in throwing events for visually impaired athletes varies based on the athlete’s classification:

• Class F11 (totally blind): The athlete is escorted to the throwing area by the guide, who can provide verbal orientation during the throw. Once the athlete is oriented, the guide may give additional verbal instructions before, during, and after each attempt.
• Class F12 (visually impaired): The use of a guide is optional. If the athlete chooses to have a guide, they may assist similarly to what is allowed for F11 athletes.
• Class F13 (visually impaired with greater residual vision): The use of guides is not permitted in any event.

Source: fispes.it