The Mechanics of Angular Momentum Generation in Discus Throwing

Angular momentum development in the back of the ring, during the first double and first single support, is of paramount importance in discus throwing because this is where almost all the angular momentum the thrower can generate will be generated. From a purely mechanical point of view, to achieve that, the thrower should keep her arms spread apart, and also actively throw both the right leg and the left arm and shoulders CCW. Those actions will collectively contribute in slowing down the lower body, as the thrower actively chooses to pass as much angular momentum to the upper body at the expense of the lower body which slows down, while the overall angular momentum increases. The slowing down effect of the lower body/hip area, is an event which will allow the leg muscles to be in high tension as long as possible, and exert higher forces against the ground. Higher forces over time translate into higher overall angular momentum which is exactly what the thrower wants.