Your Guide to Finding the Right Stuff
Use this page as a resource for choosing track and field supplies that fit your needs. Whether you’re buying for a beginner or an experienced athlete, get key information on how to throw a discus and how different products affect training and performance. Equip yourself (with knowledge and supplies) as you master the art of the discus throw and work toward your competitive goals.
Already an expert? Shop Discus now.
Discus Terminology
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Centripetal Force
The circular force exerted on the discus to create velocity.
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Foul
An attempt is ruled a foul if any body part comes into contact with the area outside the ring.
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Power Position
The stance the athlete adopts right before final release, in which all weight is in the dominant leg at the end of the throwing motion.
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Rim Weight
The percentage of the discus’s overall weight comprised by the rim.
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Ring
Aka the “throwing circle,” the area designated for performing the steps of the throw.
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Release
Aka “the moment of inertia,” the transfer of force from hand to discus at the end of the spin.
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Standing Throw
A throw completed without any preparatory spin; the thrower puts his non-dominant leg forward with toe touching the toe board, then winds his torso to release the discus forward. Beginners will start with a standing throw, and athletes at all levels warm up and prep during competition with this method.
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Toe Board
The inside rim of the throwing circle.
Selection Charts
| Style | Weight |
|---|---|
| Women, H.S. plus | 1 kilo. |
| H.S. boys | 1.6 kilo. |
| College-masters men to 49 | 2 kilo. |
| Intl’ jr. men (19 & under) | 1.75 kilo. |
| Men 50 to 59 | 1.5 kilo. |
| Men 60 plus | 1 kilo. |
| Range | Rim Weight |
|---|---|
| 100' to 130' | 70% to 73% |
| 125' to 150' | 73% to 75% |
| 145' to 160' | 75% to 80% |
| 155' to 170' | 78% to 85% |
| 165' to 180' | 85% to 89% |
| 190' or more | 88% to 91% |
| Range | Rim Weight |
|---|---|
| 100' to 125' | 70% to 73% |
| 120' to 150' | 73% to 75% |
| 140' to 160' | 75% to 80% |
| 150' to 165' | 78% to 85% |
| 160' or more | 85% to 89% |
| 175' to 190' | 85% to 90% |
What Discus When?
Intermediate
The low-spin discus is a great choice for learning athletes who have the basics down. Self-correcting flight and less wobble in this discus help throwers develop technique and build confidence. 75% Rim Weight Discus.
Competitive edge
The 88% rim weight discus has been used to win more Olympic medals and set more new records than any other model. A heavy brass rim allows it to fly farther and break records. Meets all IAAF, NCAA and NFHS regulations.
Indoor
The Indoor Rubber Model is ideal for indoor practice at any level, as the brown surface minimizes floor marks. Meets official weights and specifications, suitable for competition. See also: Strapped Rubber Discus.
Advanced
The 93% rim weight discus is best for more advanced athletes. It demands the highest level of strength, technique and control—excellent form will pay off with a greater distance. Available in 1k, 1.6k and 2k college: 93% Rim Weight Discus.
Discus Pro Tips
- Practice maintaining balance as you rotate and simultaneously build speed as you work up to the release.
- Don’t wrap your hand around the discus. Instead, think about using the force of momentum in your throw to keep the disc against your arm. Lightly support the edge with your fingers. The second knuckle of each finger should just line up with the rim so your fingertips hang over the edge.
- If you swing your arm too slowly, the discus will fall! A lighter discus can be great as you’re learning; experiment with how fast you must rotate to keep it safely in your hand before release.
- Lower rim weight gives throwers more control, but the discus will not travel as far. It has less weight at its edges to propel it forward against air resistance.
When To Go Heavy
Higher rim weight (82% and up) equals further distance flown—but it also means technique must be on-point. A heavier-rimmed discus is more likely to wobble and stray off-course if it’s not thrown properly.
