Implements
One of the easiest ways to get an athlete injured is to have faulty equipment. we can reduce the chance for injury to the athlete by routinely inspecting the implements that they are using. We don't want a shot putter to tear up his or her hand from a burr on a shot. A plate that comes loose form a discus and fly off at any angle, potentially injuring someone.
In this listing, we look at some of the come things that should be inspected on each implement. Please make note that such inspections should be carried out ESPECIALLY when the implement has come in contact with a hard surface (concrete, macadam) or the cage.
- Shot put
- Examine for burrs or protrusions on the surface
- On indoor implements, look for loose or missing core plugs
- On indoor implements, look for cracks or splits in the outer shell
- Discus
- Look for burrs or protrusions on the rim
- Check for loose or missing core plugs
- Look for split or cracked body plates
- Check that the body plates are secure
- Javelin
- Look for loose or frayed grip cord
- Inspect points for cracks or splits
- Inspect the body of the implement for cracks or splits
- Look for broken points (both front and back)
- Hammer/Weight
- Look for unbound wires
- these can cause an errant throw to hang up in the cage or to tear the cage material
- Inspect wires for nicks or cuts
- Look for loose or missing cores (weight implements)
- Inspect handles for cracks, or so see if they are sprung and no longer useable
- Inspect gloves for smoothness
- Inspect indoor weights for loose, cut or broken straps
- Look for unbound wires