Expert: Richard Howland - 10/14/2009

Question
Hi I am a 6'02", 195 LB Senior. I just recently threw in the mid to high 120's in disc and was wondering what my theoretical full spin throw would be? I was also wondering what a good indicator would be for being a 170+ disc thrower? thank you for your time

Answer
Dear Trevor:

I am an official and not a coach and do not want you to misunderstand my answer.

Because I have received many inquiries which are really coaching related, I have looked for sources which I think can help with your questions.  I have a favorite site which is written by English coaches and is very complete in its scope and provides specific programs for learning and improving many events.  The site and the collateral article for discus training are:

http://www.allexperts.com/expertx.cgi
http://www.brianmac.co.uk/discus/index.htm

As far as theoretical forecasts I can't do that nor do I think most sports people like to project goals or targets for someone's future.

It is helpful, I think, to keep in mind the uniqueness that we each have a bring to any task. It really isn't as it might seem to compare athletes who vary in height, weight, muscle strength (and which muscles), fitness body configuration and so forth.  I tell kids that their goals is simply to do better every day and to stick to a program which vary day by day.  

The best help is usually a trained coach or experienced athlete who can watch you perform and make or suggest adjustments to account for idiosyncrasies.

Good luck, Dick Howland