Discus and Biomechanics - Term Paper Example

It was first introduced in the modern sporting event in the 1896 Olympic Games. This maiden appearance marked the dominance of the sport in the Olympic Games (Leigh & Yu, 2007). Moreover, interest in the sport has increased significantly. In Europe mostly, the sport has become a famous trend in field and track competitions. Over the years, the track and field event has featured in major global arenas such as the Olympics and has attracted the participation of numerous personalities and nations (Hay& Yu, 1995).

Its development has been gradual. Prior to attaining global significance, early modern participation in the sport was a throw from an inclined pedestal and employed an exaggerated style copied from the old representation of the event. The throw was done from a 7-foot circle. It was until 1928 that the circle was adjusted to the measurements used in the modern sporting events. In addition, the modern sport is divided into the men and women categories. The two divisions differentiate in the weight and size of the discus used.

The disc has a diameter of 8.16 inches. The thickness should be 1.75 inches (Hay& Yu, 1995). The discus is made of wood or a material with similar properties. The outside of the discus is created with metal rims and small brass plated on its sides. The weight of the discus must exceed 2 kg. In 1928, the sport was included in the women’s track and field events. However, a small discus was used for women. The discus weighed 2 pounds 3.2 ounce (1kg). It measures 7.1 inches (Hay& Yu, 1995). The major objective of the sport is to increase the participation of athletes in track and field sporting events (Hubbard & Cheng, 2007).

In addition, its adaption as an Olympic event had the objective of retaining its relevance considering its great history. The creation of the sport was based on the aim to include more sports disciplines in the track and field events. Its purpose in has been influenced by the fact that the