Coach David Parker Shares Tips for Choosing the Best Javelin | Shanghai, CN

Getting the right javelin can help you achieve your goals. Choosing one that fits your needs can be challenging, as the selection criteria change depending on your skills. Before you buy one, it’s essential to consider various factors, such as the design and composition.

For most athletes, carrying multiple javelins is a common practice. Since their performance can vary due to the weather conditions and different models, they have varying tip weights. In this article are tips for choosing the best javelin.

FIND THE BEST DESIGN

Headwind

The streamlined design of the headwind is a good choice for those who are looking to cut through the wind. This tip features a small surface area that allows it to correct itself automatically when a thrower misses the mark. This tip type is ideal for those who need to be more skilled at throwing but still need to use their strength and torque to overcome their shortcomings.

Tailwind

The thicker and blunter design of the tailwind tip is ideal for those who are looking to improve their throwing technique. It allows them to hit the point with a powerful throw and maintain a beautiful floating flight. This type of tip is also ideal for those who need to be more skilled at throwing but still need to use their strength and torque to overcome their shortcomings.

Carbon-1

The carbon-1 design of the javelin provides a 40% faster damping rate, which is ideal for long flights. It also allows users to throw with minimal vibration. The advanced thrower will find this model more suitable.

CHOOSING THE PROPER PARTS

Javelin Head

Before you buy a new javelin, it’s crucial to determine its intended use. Some models come with a rubber or plastic head that can be used for training or competition. The metal head can only be used for competition.

Javelin Shaft

The flex scale is a measurement that allows an athlete to determine the amount of bend that their shaft will allow. Advanced throwers require a flex rate of between 4.8 and 6.6. The main component of a throwing device is the shaft, usually made of either plastic or metal. Its width can be as thin as 20-30mm from its widest point.

Chord Grip

The chord grip is a component of the shaft that the thrower holds and is located near the center of gravity. Most grip designs come with a non-slip pattern that can be no bigger than 8mm in diameter, making aluminum models the ideal choice for beginner users.

ABOUT COACH DAVID PARKER

Coach David Parker is a dedicated javelin and conditioning coach that places a high value on his athletes’ growth as athletes and their physical strength and stamina. For many years, David has been in charge of overseeing the expansion of national programs and the physical development of national program athletes in Shanghai, China. David is always looking for new ways to help his athletes improve, and he does more than just teach them the rules of a sport; he also focuses on their body movements. With this approach, David is able to aid in the development of his athletes while maintaining a safe and regulated training environment. Known for his innovative and practical training methods, David helps his athletes improve their dynamic stability, reduce the risk of injury and be ready for anything that may come their way.

As a successful entrepreneur, China’s National Men’s Javelin Coach, and the Head Performance Javelin Coach for the Shanghai Track & Field Team, David Parker has a wide range of responsibilities. Sightline Performance and The Javelin Throw, of which he is a co-owner and director, are also under his direction. Coach David Parker formerly worked for British Athletics as the National Performance Institute Coach for Throws and as the Lead Throws Coach at Loughborough University, where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees.