Shot Put Back Throw Test
This test involves throwing an shot put for maximum distance, a measure of body explosive power. The Back Throw Test is one of the tests used in the International Physical Fitness Test. This test is also part of the power quadrathlon assessment.
purpose: This test measures core body strength and total body power.
equipment required: tape measure, clear open area for testing, shot put (8 lb for the International Fitness Test, for Quadrathlon use 16lbs (male) or 12 lbs (female)).
pre-test: Explain the test procedures to the subject. Perform screening of health risks and obtain informed consent. Prepare forms and record basic information such as age, height, body weight, gender, test conditions. Perform an appropriate warm-up. See more details of pre-test procedures.
procedure: The athlete starts with his back to the throwing area, with their heels at the start line, and the shot cradled in both hands between the knees. The subject bends forward and downward before throwing the shot backwards over their head in a two-handed throwing action (optimally at about 45 degrees). Several practices may be required to get the best trajectory for maximum distance.
scoring: Measurement is made from the starting line to the point of impact of the shot put with the ground. The measurement is recorded in meters and centimeters. The best result of two or three trials is recorded. See some athlete results of the overhead shot put throw.
target population: sports in which total body power is important.
advantages: this test is easy and quick to perform for each individual, with the equipment readily available in most sports departments.
disadvantages: several people are needed to conduct this test smoothly: one to mark results, another to check technique and another to collect and return the balls. If testing a large group of participants, it can be time consuming to put all of them through this test.
comments: The angle the ball is thrown is important. You may want to explain to the subject about the optimal angle for maximal distance, and to allow some practice attempts.
Similar Tests
Related Pages
- results of the overhead shot put throw
- About the International Physical Fitness Test
- Medicine and Power Ball Throwing Fitness Tests
- About the power quadrathlon, which includes the shot put back throw
- Other Speed and Power Tests
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