Track and field is one of the oldest sports competed. Some track and field events require little to no equipment, while others require specialized pieces that must be certified by officials prior to each competition. Most of the equipment used in track and field is used by the field event athletes.
Hurdle
Hurdles are used on the track. They are made of wood, metal or rigid plastic. Hurdles have a base, two upright supports and a crossbar. The base is weighted that allows the hurdle to fall in a predictable fashion when struck by an athlete. Hurdles can have a width 1.03 m to 1.2 m. Hurdles are height adjustable from 30 to 42 inches.
Shot
The shot is a heavy ball that it used by field event athletes. The shot can be made of iron, brass or other material that can be covered in a metal shell. Young men and women use a four pound shot, older females use a 4 kg shot and older males use a 7.26 kg shot.
Discus
The discus is an implement thrown by athletes. It gets its name from its disc shape. The discus has a metal ring encompassing a body made of wood or synthetic material. The discus has a raised center circle that tapers to the sides. The weight of the discus will range from 1 kg to a 2 kg.
Javelin
The javelin is a spear-like implement that is thrown by athletes. Javelins have a metal head and a long shaft with a grip in the middle. The head comes to a sharp point. The weight of the javelin should be 800 g for males and 600 g for females and all youth athletes. Javelins come in many models with different designs and materials.
Hammer
The hammer is an implement that is thrown by athletes. The hammer has a weighted head attached to a handle by a wire. The head must be made of a solid material and can be covered with a metal shell. Females use a 4 kg hammer. Men start at 5 kg with senior men using 7.26 kg. The wire is a single length of spring steel wire. The handle is triangular and stiff but the grip may be curved slightly.
Pole Vault
The pole vault event requires the use of several pieces of equipment including the pole, the vaulting box, the uprights, the crossbar and landing mat. In addition some athletes may choose to wear a helmet. The size of the pole is only limited by the strength and skill of the athlete.
References
- USA Track and Field Coaching Education Manual, USA Track and Field, 2006
- NCAA: Cross Country & Track and Field
- IAAF: Competition Rules
Member Comments