Shot put is a challenging discipline, demanding considerable strength, coordination, and technique from those who practice it. To achieve success in this sport and to be able to send the shot flying as far as possible, there are a lot of factors to keep in mind.
One thing you don't have to worry about is the quality of the shots you purchase from Full Athletics. In our online store, you will find models of shots suitable for school sports, clubs, and competitions. To buying guide »
Finding the Right Shot For Training and Competitions
You'll find the perfect shot here in our online store, regardless of your requirements. It doesn't matter if it's for indoor or outdoor use. We have all the shots you could need for competitions and training.
Shots for Competitions
Every shot used by an athlete in a competition must fulfill the following criteria to ensure shot put events are kept fair:
- Material: shots for use in competitions must be manufactured from solid metal, typically steel, cast iron, or brass. Regardless of the material, the shot must be able to withstand the high-impact forces acting upon it as it is thrown.
- Size: shots have a standard size, as determined by international competition regulations. A shot for male athletes must have a diameter of at least 110 mm. Shots for female athletes must have a diameter of 95 mm.
- Grip: the surface of the shot should be rough to make it both easier for the athlete to hold and to prevent it from sliding after having made contact with the ground.
- Color: shots for use in competitions are usually one distinctive color, making them both easy to see when thrown and distinguishable when surrounded by others on the playing surface. It is very common for the color of the shot to fade quickly once the shot is in use.
Complying with these rules when competing in international competitions helps to maintain a fair and professional competitive environment for all athletes.
Shots for Training
Shots for training purposes have similar qualities to those mentioned above. There are, however, some small differences in terms of their characteristics that are important to bear in mind when seeking to get the best out of a training session.
- Weight: lighter and heavier shots have been designed for use specifically in training setups. Having access to shots of different weights makes it easier for athletes to work at their own level to achieve their individual goals.
- Material: training shots are made from a wider variety of materials, such as rubber and synthetic material. Shots made from cast iron are also very popular for outdoor training.
- Size: these models of shot are also available in many different sizes to accommodate many different hand shapes and sizes. In our HAEST online store, you can tailor your search for a shot by specifying the diameter you are looking for. This is particularly beneficial to professional athletes.
- Grip: the surfaces of training shots are different depending on the material and brand of the shot. Some shots have a smooth surface, whilst others have a rougher exterior to give the athlete a better grip.
The features of a training shot have all been designed to meet the demands of training in this grueling discipline by catering to the different weights, sizes, and materials required by athletes. With the ultimate long-term goal being to continuously improve performance, having such a variety of options available will certainly help to achieve this.
Shots of Different Weight Classes
We also offer a variety of indoor shots here at Full Athletics. These models are made from synthetic material so as not to damage the gym or hall floor when used inside. We offer a variety of shots in different weight classes and diameters to ensure every athlete, regardless of ability or skill level, has a chance to practice.
Regardless of whether you're searching for a shot for competitions, for training, or for use indoors, we offer models in the following weights:
6.00 kg 7.26 kgWhen equipped with the right sports equipment, nothing can stand in the way of an effective training session and a successful competition.
Practice Makes Perfect
Practice is essential if you want to improve in this discipline. Success in the shot put relies on a successful combination of technique, strength, and coordination. We've collected a few tips to help beginners get started:
We recommend school-age beginners practice with medicine balls to prepare them for shot put training. The technique can be refined afterward by introducing an appropriate shot made from cast iron or synthetic material. We offer an especially light Soft-Shot Put with a weight of only 500 g for the initial training sessions with children at school or athletics clubs. The most straightforward technique in shot put throwing is to remain in a standing position and throw the shot in the direction of the playing field. This allows beginners to concentrate fully on the shot. More advanced athletes can practice the glide and rotational techniques.
