Hammer Throw is an individual sport where competitors throw a large, metal, hammer-like device. The competitor with the longest throw is the winner.

Hammer throw first appeared at the Highland Games in ancient Scotland. This tradition was later revived at the modern Olympic Games. Each throw is characterized by swinging the hammer in a circular motion in order to gain speed and momentum. The hammer is then released, and the throw is measured from its landing point.

Throw a hammer further than all competition.

A men's hammer weighs 16 pounds, while a women's hammer weighs nearly 9 pounds. Competitors began their attempt by swinging the hammer above their heads to establish circular motion. Force is then applied and speed is gained by completing one to four rotations. This causes the ball to move in a circular path, gradually increasing in velocity. When ready, competitors release the ball from the front of the circle. The competitor with the longest throw at the end of competition is the winner.

Versions of the hammer throw first appeared at the ancient Scottish Highland Games, where an actual sledgehammer was used in competition. A men's version of the sport was first included in the modern Olympic Games in 1900, while a women's version began in 2000. International competition has traditionally been dominated by eastern European countries and Russia. Today the hammer throw is a semi-popular international sport with the highest level of competition found at the Olympic Games.

Hammer

Hammer throw is a relatively safe sport due to a lack of contact between competitors. Despite this, all spectators and competitors should be alert at all times for errant hammers.

Competitors must have strong forearms and shoulders. A good sense of balance is also essential. These skills can be attained through weight training and yoga.

Hammer - a metal ball, typically weighing 16 pounds attached to a wire for throwing in an athletic contest

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammer_throw