Determination of critical parameters among elite female shot putters.

The aim of this study was to determine if critical parameters for elite performance could be identified among a population of female shot putters. The performance of seven of the top women shot putters competing at the 2002 USA National Championships was examined. Video data were captured using two Panasonic 60 Hz cameras and the best throws of each athlete were digitized and analyzed using a Peak Motus three-dimensional motion analysis system. Thirty variables were examined for their effect on the distance of the throw. Correlation analysis indicated that measured distance was positively correlated with release speed (r = 0.97, p < 0.0003) and shoulder-hip separation (r = 0.72, p < 0.06) and negatively correlated with release angle (r = -0.74, p < 0.056), rear knee angle at rear foot touchdown (r = -0.93, p < 0.003) and rear knee angle at release (r = -0.76, p < 0.047). Greater knee flexion angle at both rear foot touch down and release along with a neutral shoulder-hip angle at release were identified as the most critical parameters for success among this sample of elite women shot putters. The unique observation about the knee positions at specific events should assist in new training and coaching developments.