10/23/2026
Back in action this week with more love and sharing the wealth of this sport!
Continuing this series, we have Throwing Discus in the Wind with Coach Amanda Powlen.
Learn Mechanics and slide over for Headwind, Tailwind, Crosswind & Experimenting, Beginners, and more!
Coach: coach_amanda_powlen
School: CCSU XC & TRACK & Central Connecticut Throws
Event: practice!
HEADWIND.
Assuming you are rotating your discus well, a headwind can catch the underside of the discus and help it maintain its flight longer.
A good headwind is a chance to throw the discus relatively flat and let the wind do some of the work. Think about sending the discus out on a direct, almost laser-like path. With a clean release, good spin and the right angle, the discus can catch the wind and carry.
TAILWIND.
Tailwinds affect the discus differently. The wind is moving in the same general direction as the throw and can push down on the front of the discus, causing it to drop sooner.
A slightly higher release can help in these conditions. Giving the discus more height provides some room for the wind to push it down without cutting the flight too short. This should be a small adjustment rather than a major change to the athlete's normal throwing technique.
CROSSWIND & EXPERIMENTING.
Crosswinds can be harder to predict because the effect depends on the direction of the wind and whether the athlete throws right-handed or left-handed. Practice is one of the best ways to learn how to handle them.
Windy days are useful training opportunities. Experiment with the position of the discus and make small adjustments to the release angle. Pay attention to what happens. If one position helps the discus stay in the air and carry farther, remember it. If the discus stalls or quickly crashes to the ground, try something different on the next throw.
Athletes have to compete in whatever weather shows up on meet day. Practicing in different conditions helps a thrower learn how the discus responds before those adjustments need to be made in competition.
WHAT ABOUT THE BEGINNERS?
Beginning throwers do not need to spend much time worrying about wind. Developing a clean re
