A Guide to Throwing Rubber Tip Javelins Safely and Effectively

What is a Rubber Tip Javelin?

A rubber tip javelin is a version of the traditional javelin that has been modified for safety reasons. Instead of having a sharp metal tip like a regular javelin, a rubber tip javelin has a blunt rubber tip on the end. This helps reduce the risk of injury when the javelin lands after being thrown.

Benefits of Using Rubber Tip Javelins

There are several benefits to using rubber tip javelins compared to traditional metal tipped javelins:

• Safer for athletes - the rubber tip greatly reduces risk of impalement injuries if athletes are accidentally hit by the javelin.
• Can be used on any surface - rubber tips mean these javelins can be safely thrown on grass, synthetic tracks, concrete, etc. without damage.
• More beginner friendly - the reduced risk element makes rubber tip javelins ideal for training novice and younger athletes.
• Reusable - rubber tips do not deform as easily as metal after landing, allowing for prolonged reuse.
• Cheaper - rubber tips are less expensive to produce than traditional metal javelin tips.

Types of Rubber Tip Javelins

There are a few different types of rubber tip javelins:

• Training javelins - lightweight javelins for beginners. Often made entirely of rubber/plastic rather than wood/metal.
• Competition javelins - full size and weight IAAF approved javelins with rubber blunt tips.
• Recreational javelins - moderately weighted javelins with rubber tips for casual throwing.

Training javelins typically weigh 300-600g. Competition javelins must be 800g for men and 600g for women. Recreational models are 600-800g generally.

Rubber Tip Attachments

Some traditional metal tipped javelins can be adapted to have rubber tips attached:

• Slip-on rubber caps - these fit over the metal end to blunt it.
• Rubber tip inserts - a rubber end is inserted into the hollow metal tip.
• Screw-on tips - threaded rubber tips can be screwed into the metal end.

This allows athletes to modify their existing javelins for safer training rather than purchasing entirely new rubber tip models.

How to Throw a Rubber Tip Javelin

While rubber tip javelins remove the risk of impalement, the technique for throwing them is essentially the same as a traditional javelin:

1. Hold the javelin correctly - grip the corded section with your throwing hand and support the tip with your other hand.
2. Approach the throw - accelerate into a controlled run up of 8-15 strides.
3. Launch with power - lean back and thrust hips and shoulders forward for power.
4. Follow through - keep your arm extended as the javelin releases from your fingers.

Maintaining the proper overarm throwing technique is key to maximizing distance. The main difference with rubber tips is not needing to worry about spearing the landing surface.

Throwing Drills and Training

Useful drills and exercises for improving javelin throw technique with a rubber tip javelin include:

• Short run ups - practice just the final 5 strides of the approach.
• Standing throws - work on throw mechanics from a stationary standing position.
• Target throws - aim for markers on the field to improve accuracy.
• Strength training - develop arm, shoulder and core muscles with weights/resistance bands.

Always warm-up properly before throwing drills. For beginners, start with lighter training javelins focusing on skill development before progressing to heavier models.

Safety Tips

While rubber tip javelins are safer, some precautions should still be taken:

• Inspect tip before use - check for cracks, deformities or detachments.
• Ensure adequate run up space - 30-45m minimum, more for advanced throwers.
• Control the throw area - mark boundaries and keep other athletes away.
• Throw into headwinds - wind from behind can increase throw distances.
• Stand aside after release - move out of follow through path quickly.

Always replace damaged javelins rather than trying to repair rubber tips. When not in use, store javelins vertically in racks to avoid damaging the tip.

Supervision Recommended

Beginners should always throw under the supervision of an experienced coach or trainer to ensure proper technique and safety. Trying to self-teach javelin technique without guidance can lead to injury and developing bad habits.

Benefits of Throwing Rubber Tip Javelins

Some key benefits of training with rubber tip javelins include:

• Builds explosive power - improves ability to generate force quickly.
• Aerobic conditioning - increases stamina through approach runs.
• Full body workout - uses legs, core, shoulders, chest and arms.
• Mental focus - takes concentration and coordination to master technique.
• Fun fitness - provides an engaging and motivating training option.

Javelin throwing is a great way to get a full body workout outdoors and enjoy the thrill of release and distance. Using rubber tip javelins allows this to be done far more safely.

Alternative Uses

Due to their safe, weighted design, rubber tip javelins can also be used creatively for:

• Outdoor games - for target throwing activities.
• Strength training - performing drills/exercises with extra resistance.
• Kid's athletics - introducing throwing skills.
• Rehabilitation - providing low impact exercise.

The throwing motion uses so many muscles, it offers a very effective training tool beyond just skill practice.

In Summary

Rubber tip javelins remove the risky metal tipped point from traditional javelins, allowing for safer throwing. They retain the same weight and throwing dynamics, just with a blunt rubber end. This makes them ideal for training, especially for beginners and younger athletes. With good technique and the right safety precautions, rubber tip javelins provide an engaging way to build explosive power and enjoy an iconic athletic skill.

FAQs

Why use a rubber tip javelin?

Rubber tip javelins are safer for beginners and younger athletes as the blunt rubber tip greatly reduces the risk of impalement injuries if hit by the javelin.

Are rubber tip javelins competition legal?

Full size 800g men's and 600g women's rubber tip javelins can be used in competitions, provided they comply with IAAF standards.

How far do rubber tip javelins travel?

Due to greater wind resistance, rubber tip javelins achieve slightly shorter throwing distances compared to metal tipped models, but can still readily reach 50m+ with good technique.

Can you sharpen rubber tip javelins?

No, sharpening or removing the rubber tip makes them far more dangerous, especially for younger users, and should never be attempted.

Are rubber tips interchangeable between brands?

Usually not - rubber tips are precisely fitted to different javelin models. Only use replacement rubber tips designed specifically for your javelin.