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Physical Education

Javelin Run-Up

Overview

Building on standing throw technique, students learn the crossover steps used in the javelin run-up to generate extra power.

Learning Objective
Students add a controlled run-up to a javelin-style throw, combining approach speed with release technique.

Resources needed

  • Straight sticks of equal length
  • Clear throwing lane 40+ metres
  • Stick markers

Lesson stages

0 / 7 done
  1. 1 Review the standing throw technique from the previous lesson.
  2. 2 Teach the withdrawal: during the run-up, draw the throwing arm back while running.
  3. 3 Walk through the crossover steps — right foot crosses in front of left (for right-handed throwers) before the throw.
  4. 4 Practise the crossover steps walking — no implement.
  5. 5 Add a 5-step run-up: run, withdraw, crossover, throw.
  6. 6 Focus on keeping the throwing arm extended behind during the run.
  7. 7 Mark best throws — compare to standing throw distance.

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Compare 3-step vs 5-step run-up — which adds more distance?
  • Film from the side to check the withdrawal position.
  • Seated throw plus standing throw plus run-up throw — see the distance progression.
More information

Teach: run-up, withdrawal, crossover, approach, release, generate. The action sequence for the run-up: run, pull back, crossover, plant, throw.

Students who have not mastered the standing throw should focus on that before adding the run-up.

Is the arm withdrawn during the run rather than at the last moment? Do the crossover steps flow into the throw or cause the student to stop?

Straight sticks make free javelins. Throwing lane marked with stones. No specialist equipment needed.

Students pull the arm back at the last moment instead of during the run. Teach the withdrawal early — the arm should be back by the third step.

The javelin run-up is one of the most technically complex movements in athletics. Even a basic understanding of the crossover steps significantly increases throwing distance.

Activity details
Primary Challenging 25 minutes 5 minutes prep Whole Class, Small Group Outdoor
Topics
Javelin Athletics Run-up