Throwing is considered the highest intensity event in track and field. In order for throwers to whip their bodies around and toss some heavy implements far, a lot of preparation and care needs to go into competition days. You only get three attempts to make it to finals and from there, three more to win it all, so you better come prepared! We made this list to ensure you don't forget a single thing.
Throwing Shoes
One of the essentials for meet day is your throwing shoes! You can't run down that runway, spin in that circle, or glide without the proper footwear. Don't forget to pack the necessary shoes so that you can throw even further!
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Pre-wrap and Athletic Tape
Some throwers definitely lean on these tapes a little more than others, but there's no denying their importance, however you choose to use them! Pre-wrap can act as a knee brace, head band, or protective first layer to a taped ankle. The athletic tape can offer better support for your fingers, wrist, or hands. You can also be the go-to person for your teammates to get tape!
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Water Bottle
Any athlete knows that staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of their performance. In order to do this, you should bring a reusable water bottle to make sure you're not riddled with those horrible dehydration cramps or worse – heat stroke.
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Related: Importance of Hydration for Student Athletes
Towel
What happens when you need to wipe chalk left by other throwers in the circle? Or maybe you need to clean your implement from the dirt that it collects. Maybe you need to wipe off your shoes before you put them back in your bag, or brush some sweat off your brow. Either way, a towel is your best bet to prevent any unforeseen accidents or messes.
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Wrist Strap
An essential for any thrower who wants to have wrists when they get older, is wrist wraps. Let's be honest, throwing heavy stuff can take a toll on your body, but you can protect yourself from any injuries that come with throwing with something as simple as a wrist wrap.
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Hammer Glove
Another essential protective layer for your hands: a hammer/weight glove. They come in all different shapes and sizes, but the important thing is the protection they give you when hurling a weight or a hammer around your head. This leather layer helps keep your hands from getting torn up by the handle of your implement.
Photo source: Athletics DIRECT
Lacrosse Ball
This might seem like a weird object to pack in your throwing bag, but lacrosse balls serve multiple purposes. For throwers, they are a great massage ball when you're in a pinch. Putting it against a wall, under your leg, or rolling your foot on top, the lacrosse ball can provide relief and release the tension in tied up muscles.
Photo source: SI Reviews
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Exercise Bands
Exercise bands play different roles for each thrower, but they can all be of use. Some throwers use them to warm up their muscles, perform rehab, or stretch their muscles out. They can even provide some resistance when doing drills in order to feel out the right form.
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Chargers
No matter what event you're in, all track athletes know that these meets are an all-day affair, and most of it is a waiting game. All of that waiting around can be extremely boring, especially with a dead phone or laptop. Sometimes you need to get some homework done while you're there, so to be safe, bring a charger to plug your devices in.
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Food
Most throwers are known for how much they eat, especially at meets. They are notorious for bringing a ton of snacks to last them the entirety of the meet with a full stomach. Be wary, as these long days sometimes make you feel like treating yourself to something not so healthy. Just keep in mind that a healthy balance of foods is the best way to fuel your body for competition.
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Related: 2 Satisfying Snacks for Athletes on the Go
Caffeine
Throwers are intense athletes from the start. Sometimes they need a little boost of energy to get there. Caffeine is a great way to get that extra energy to go crazy in your throws and stay awake during those long meets. Take some caution with these drinks because some can make you crash, and if you don't time it right, you might crash right before your event.
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Related: 3 Energy Drinks for Athletes
Headphones
Another way to pump yourself up is to listen to some music. Bringing your headphones can help put you in the mood to leave it all out there in the sector. It is also a great way to stay focused on your competition and block out any outside noises. Do be careful with any regulations the meet might have, as some officials ban the use of headphones in the competition area.
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Deodorant
The quickest way for you to feel gross is when you start to smell. Although it's the last thing you should be thinking about when throwing, deodorant can be a big help in keeping you fresh and ready to go. You might not be able to shower after you throw, but this is the next best thing. Your teammates will thank you.
Photo source: Runner's World
Related: Track and Field Lingo
Belt
Another protective layer for the intense athletes, a belt or back brace can provide some serious support for your throws. Belts can also make you feel solid in your core and help you feel even stronger than you usually do. Whatever you need to protect yourself and your body is definitely a necessity in your bag.
Photo source: BuiltLean
Foam Roller
A great buddy for the lacrosse ball is a foam roller. What's great about this product is how versatile it is and how many different spots you can hit rolling on it. It's a great way to stay loose, release tension, and keep you ready for the competition.
Photo source: BYRDIE
Homework
Like mentioned before, these meets can take a big chunk out of your day. The biggest thing to remember is you are a STUDENT-athlete, so make sure that wherever you might be traveling, your assignments should always be done and handed in on time so your academics won't suffer. Even if that means packing it with you.
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Tripod
Throwing is one of the most technical events you can do. Although it might seem like an easy task to grab a ball or spear and throw it as far as you can, the best of the best rely on impeccable form to take it to the next level. One of the best ways to check your form and analyze your technique is to record yourself. Tripods can provide a much better angle for your phone to record you.
Safety Pins
Another forgotten addition to the list, safety pins can be the most important items when it comes down to competition time. Some meets require athletes to pin their bibs onto their jerseys in order to keep track of who is competing. Safety pins help you keep that bib on your jersey, and they take up no extra space in your bag.
Related: 5 Tips for Track and Field Athletes
Meet Journal
Like many other sports, throwing can be a very mental game. You want to make sure your mentality is as much of a priority as your physical game. To do this, a lot of athletes make use of journals to keep their thoughts focused and technical cues organized. The journal also gives you a chance to reflect and center yourself before and after competing. As you're preparing for your meet , make sure to pack your journal to remind you of your goals and track your progress.
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* Originally published on February 25, 2022, by Catherine Light