Discus Disc

Discus throw is a popular sport across the world in which the players are required to throw a disc (discus) as far as possible in a marked region. In official tournaments, the players are required to throw the disc from a circle having a diameter of 2.5 metres (8.2 feet). The athletes then aim for a 34.92-degree sector marked to complete the throw.  

The athletes usually spin the disc via their index finger or the middle finger of the throwing hand. The disc then spins in a clockwise motion if spun by right-handed players and anticlockwise for left-handed players. The objective while throwing is to achieve maximum momentum in the disc and the distance is determined by the aerodynamic trajectory imparted by the thrower.

Manufacturing of the Disc

The dimension of the discus varies in men’s and women’s event. The disc is circular with a diameter of 219 mm (8.6 inches) with a thickness of 44 mm (1.75 inches) in the men’s category. The minimum weight of the discus must be 2 kg (4.4 pounds). The discus’s dimension varies in women’s events as it has a diameter of 180 mm (7.1 inches) and weighs 1 kg (2 pounds 3.2 ounces).

The discs are usually made from materials like plastic, wood, fibreglass and metal. The discs have a metallic rim and core to maintain the weight. The discus throwers didn’t have any specialized grip; therefore, the rim always has no roughness and irregularities and must be smooth enough.

Official rules regarding the Disc

According to the IAAF, the playing discus should have the following properties -

• The disc can be manufactured from any choice of material such as wood, plastic or metal but should have a metallic rim fitted on the circular edge.
• Both kinds of the disc with hollow and solid inner construction are acceptable in the official matches.
• The edge of the disc should be circular with cross-section and must have a radius of 6 mm.
• The disc is required to have a smooth surface.
• The disc is required to have uniformity in construction with identical sides and devoid of any irregular and sharp edges.

Types of Discs used in Discus Throw

• Very high spin Discus - The rim weight is 85% and above of the total weight of the discus and is designed for some of the best throwers in the world.
• High spin Discus - The rim weight is 75 to 85% of the total disc weight and is designed for the advanced level throwers.
• Low spin Discus - The rim weight is 60 to 75% of the total disc weight and is ideal for experienced throwers.
• Centre-weighted Discus - The rim weight is 50 to 60% of the total discus weight and is designed for beginners.

History and Evolution of Discs in Discus Throw

The game of discus throw has appeared in the 5^th century BC and was developed in the ancient Greek and Roman era.  In 776 BC, it was a part of the first Olympic Games. In earlier times, the discs were made from iron and bronze. The winner of the competition was also awarded the disc. The discs were massive in weight and were subjected for a shorter range of area. The ancient discus throwers used to follow an overhead throwing position with a slight bending motion while throwing the disc.  

The modern discs can be manufactured from various natural or artificial materials and are lighter in weight compared to ancient discs. They are more durable and have a smooth surface. Nowadays, solid rubber discs are also used for training purposes. The rubber discs are lighter and cheaper and have an equal distribution of weight. The players don’t require taking the discs over their head anymore and threw it with a half-turning position.