The Javelin Throw | How Jan Zelezny used his Block arm

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Jan Železný's use of the block arm in javelin throwing is a technique that has become synonymous with his success and remains one of the key elements of his unparalleled throwing style. The "block arm" is a crucial aspect of modern javelin technique, helping athletes maximize power and stability during the throw. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of how Železný used the block arm to achieve his legendary performances, including his world record of 98.48 meters.
What is the Block Arm?
The block arm is the non-throwing arm (the left arm for right-handed throwers) that plays a key role during the final stages of the javelin throw. In the context of Železný's technique, the block arm acts as a stabilizing force that prevents the body from rotating too early or losing balance during the release. It is essential for generating the necessary power while maintaining a clean and efficient throwing motion.
Key Function of the Block Arm in Železný's Technique
Železný's javelin throw was marked by his exceptional use of the block arm to aid in controlling his body position and maximizing the torque in his throwing side. The block arm serves several functions:
Creating Stability During Release: As the javelin thrower rotates their body, the block arm helps to stabilize the upper body, allowing the throwing arm to release the javelin with maximum velocity and accuracy. Železný’s block arm remained fully extended as his body coiled in the run-up, ensuring that his body stayed aligned, especially during the release phase.
Preventing Premature Rotation: One of the biggest challenges in the javelin throw is controlling the body’s rotational force, especially as the athlete moves through the throwing motion at high speeds. Without a firm block arm, the athlete’s body could rotate too early, leading to a loss of power and a less efficient throw. Železný used his block arm to act as a barrier against early rotation, which allowed his throwing arm to remain in the optimal position for release. This technique helped him maintain a strong and controlled follow-through.
Maximizing Torque: The block arm is essential for maximizing the torque in the throwing side of the body. By pushing against the block arm, the athlete creates a greater force differential between the lower and upper body. This difference in rotational speed between the two sides of the body results in a more powerful and explosive throw. Železný was a master at using this energy transfer, which was a key reason for his incredible throwing distances.
Improved Alignment and Clean Release: When executed properly, the block arm helps align the entire body for a smooth and clean release of the javelin. Železný’s block arm allowed him to control his body posture, which is vital for achieving the correct angle and trajectory for maximum distance. His ability to stay upright and aligned during the release helped prevent any loss of energy in the final moments of the throw.
How Železný’s Block Arm Set Him Apart
What set Železný apart from other javelin throwers was his exceptional execution of the block arm. While many athletes employ this technique to some degree, it was Železný’s precise control and timing that allowed him to consistently achieve world-class distances. His body was perfectly in sync with the action of the block arm, allowing for optimal speed, control, and balance during the throw.
Železný's technique, particularly with the block arm, led him to break the world record on three separate occasions, with his final record throw of 98.48 meters in 1996 remaining unbeaten for over 20 years. His ability to harness his body's natural mechanics while controlling the block arm helped him unlock a level of power and consistency that few others could replicate.
The Evolution of the Block Arm in Modern Javelin Throwing
Železný’s influence on the block arm technique cannot be overstated. Today, his method is taught to aspiring javelin throwers around the world as one of the key components of elite-level performance. Athletes now focus not only on their grip, run-up, and throwing technique but also on how to engage the block arm to enhance their overall throwing mechanics.
Coaches emphasize the importance of a firm and controlled block arm to prevent the body from collapsing or rotating prematurely, ensuring that the athlete’s power is transferred effectively into the javelin. In many ways, Železný’s technique has become the gold standard, and his mastery of the block arm serves as an example for all who wish to achieve success in the sport.
Javelin Coach Milford Connecticut
Javelin Coach New Haven Connecticut

[@ETHAN.WIENKAMP]

This is something I’ve been struggling with for a while, I appreciate you posting a full video addressing this part of the block! Thanks coach!

[@JackedJavelin]

You got it bro

[@jeremiahherrera3313]

Great tip! 🤝

[@logandenning951]

best virtual coach out there hands down!!

[@JackedJavelin]

💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽

[@JavelinCoaching]

one tip from TOM PETRANOFF, keep left arm above shoulder line... bring it down fast and bent close to the left rip, block and left arm start the throw... left leg, left arm, work together...and press down with the block (like a long jump)... important is the penultima step where the left leg must move quick forward... and down... I agree, a short quick final step that builds the block will help to keep hip high and follow through....

[@austinlenart3713]

Flying open was something I struggled with. Kept losing all power in my hips my ripping the block arm open too early. Began working on it and the first meet after it I pr’d by 20 feet with a 174

[@JackedJavelin]

Lets goo!! Good work 💪🏽

[@andor_yoko]

Hey! Just an observation about the indoor javelins, I have no knowledge on them. Are you guys using them the right way around? Since normally, javelins have their grip more towards the front (tip) of the javelin. So they have a long tail, but here the boys are using them with the 'tail' in front.

[@JackedJavelin]

Yeah we are using them correctly

[@jarmoforselius3801]

think about more supportleg position

[@JackedJavelin]

🍝

[@santeenl]

It's Pitkamaki, not Pitamaki xD

[@JackedJavelin]

🍝

[@santeenl]

@@JackedJavelin what is that hahaha

[@galinaarakelova216]

Guy, your pivot action is your mistake !

[@JackedJavelin]

There’s 3 guys in this video