When it comes to how to hold javelin, there is more than one way to do it. Finding the right grip for your throw can maximize your results as well as help prevent injury. First there are three things to consider for each javelin grip to find what will work best for you:
Grip Comfort
Now if an athlete has ever thrown a football, baseball, etc. the javelin throw motion, as well as the grip, will not feel natural. However, after throwing a javelin a few hundred times, the grip will become second nature. Try each of the grips and do a few easy releases with all three. One will stick out as the most comfortable.
Javelin Flight
Odds are the release and flight will not be pretty for a first time thrower. Despite the lack of coordination, one of the three grips will be easier for the athlete to control. This will also most likely be the one that is most comfortable for the athlete as well.
Javelin Rotation
An athlete should still not be throwing as far as they can at this point. Throwing the javelin just a few yards is the safest distance to start with. Despite the short distance, one can notice how much rotation the javelin is getting from the release. Rotation does not affect the throw at such short distances, but over a full throw can cause a world of difference. More rotation = more stable flight. Although it will be hard to see over short throws, it is something to keep an eye on.
Javelin Grips
Fork or “V” Grip
This is a great grip for beginners as it promotes the correct “over-the-top” release of the javelin. Release from this grip is fairly easy; however, the rotation the athlete will get is rather low.
Fork grip is great for those new to javelin.
The javelin is held across the palm of the throwing hand, with the top of the cord resting between the index and middle finger.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Power Transfer: Low/Medium
- Rotation: Low
- Injury Risk: Low
American Grip
This is the most common grip among jav throwers. The athlete needs to have proper flexibility with this throw to prevent an injury (primarily in the elbow or shoulder). There is also a slightly higher risk for injuries to the hand/ fingers if not done correctly. This is probably the strongest grip and can deliver a high amount of rotation upon release.
Good American grip
Poor American grip: Notice the thumb is not quite on the top lip of the cord.
The javelin is lightly held across the palm, with the index finger wrapped around the top of the cord and the thumb pressing against the top of the cord as well.
- Difficulty: Medium
- Power Transfer: Medium/ High
- Rotation: High
- Injury Risk: Medium/ High
Finnish Grip
Finnish throwers have dominated javelin for years. They also have a different way of holding it which has been adopted around the world. This grip is slightly harder to master, but can be considered safer than the American grip, with similar rotation.
This has become my favorite grip as it promotes a fast release and reduces the risk of “dropping the tail”
The javelin is held the same way as the American; however, the middle finger rests closer to the top of the cord and the index finger wraps higher along the shaft.
- Difficulty: Medium/High
- Power Transfer: Medium/High
- Rotation: High
- Injury Risk: Medium
Once you find a grip that works for you, get your reps in until the throw/release becomes “natural”. View more articles about javelin training.
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