Foam Javelin Zone Throw

Students throw foam javelins over a raised rope into zones that score more the farther they go, progressing from kneeling throws to a three-step approach. They work on the overhand throwing motion, the release angle and safe throwing routines.

How to play

1. Mark a 25 m throwing line and, in front of it, zones every 4 m worth 1 to 5 points; 3 m out, stretch a rope about 2 m high between two posts (3 min).
2. Groups of 5 line up behind the line, one javelin each; teach the grip behind the cord grip and a high elbow (2 min).
3. Phase 1: throw from one knee with the opposite leg forward, sending the javelin over the rope (3 min).
4. Phase 2: standing, opposite leg forward, arm extended back with the tip at face height; throw on the whistle (4 min).
5. Phase 3: a three-step approach to the line; 3 throws each, and the group adds its points (6 min).
6. Retrieve on the whistle and count to find the top group (2 min).

Rules

• Everyone throws together on the first whistle, and nobody crosses the line until the second whistle.
• Walk to get the javelin and carry it back with the tip pointing down.
• Never throw toward a person or throw it back; carry it in your hand.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student throws seated or from a wheelchair, with the rope lower and the zones 2 meters closer.
• Autism: give the student a fixed spot on the line marked by a colored cone, and preview the whistle routine before starting.
• Lower strength: use a foam ball with a tail or throw from one knee for the whole activity.

Learning goals

• Throw overhand with a high elbow and the arm extended back.
• Adjust the release angle to gain distance.
• Follow the safety routine of throwing and retrieving on the whistle.

Equipment for a class of 25

• foam javelins: 25
• cones: 20
• long rope: 1

Teacher tip

Keep 3 meters between lines and nobody in front of the throwing line while anyone holds a javelin. The most common mistake is pushing from the chest; cue students to bring the hand past the ear.

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