I enjoyed reading this shotput article this morning so I thought I'd share: http://www.coachr.org/critical_facto...e_shot_put.htm

Here's what I took from this study, as it related to Open Stone (I'm a rotational thrower):

- Release velocity is BY FAR the most important factor in determining distance of a throw.

- Slightly lower release angle is good (31-36d)

- Optimal release point for the shot is 0.2 - 0.5m in front of the trig.

Also got the following tips for my rotational technique:

- Long Sweeping Free Leg - I already know this, but need to work on it.

- Higher Center of Mass During flight phase (transition to middle of throw). This was interesting.

- Bend my right knee when I touch down in center of circle. No! Bend it MORE, Eric!

Anyway, always good to be reminded of the technical stuff. Going to go out & drill some stuff today :-)

Also, here's a really nice vid (includes slo-mo) of Randy Barnes throwing shot. This is what my technique should look like: