New resources and equipment for seated throwers
A newly-designed throwing frame and best practice guidance have been revealed by England Athletics.
The two initiatives are for those with an interest in seated throwing – seated javelin, discus, shot and club throw.
The developments should help disabled athletes reduce the barriers that may prevent them from taking part in sport.
The new fully adjustable Protean Seated Throwing Frame (STF) has been designed primarily to enable athletics clubs to provide training opportunities for new and beginner athletes who want to try seated throwing.
The launch of a new STF should help remove barriers to participation by creating a standard but adaptable seated frame that meets IPC standards and can be used by young people and beginner adults for club training and competition.
In conjunction, England Athletics have produced a Seated Throws Information, Equipment and Funding guidance resource which should help provide clarification on athlete classification and eligibility, throwing frame specifications and methods of securing them, implement suppliers and sources of funding.
Jane Wareing, an Athletics Coach from Stevenage & North Herts AC said:
“I have utilised the throwing frame during training and competitions with a number of our club athletes over the last six months. The versatility of the frame is great. The options to use the frame with or without the back support and similarly with or without the pole have been very beneficial. It has allowed us to experiment with different positioning and techniques much more easily.”
The new technology and guidance complements the work England Athletics carries out in the areas of inclusive competition, club and coach development.
