Using Sport Science to Improve Coaching: A Case Study of the American Record Holder in the Women's Hammer Throw

Abstract

Conclusions from biomechanical data can make a significant difference in the performance of athletes in the hammer throw if properly understood by coaches. By utilizing this scientific approach to the hammer throw event, the throws coach will be able to determine more accurate adjustments and devise training stimuli to better accommodate the athlete. In this case study, we have attempted to bridge the gap between the researcher and the coach in our approach to teaching the hammer throw, by integrating biomechanical analysis. We have employed the use of video analysis as an essential part of our coaching/teaching system. This USATF Women's development hammer project is an example in which the cooperation between sport science and coaching helped to produce an American record of 73.87m by Erin Gilreath in the women's hammer in 2005.