The shot put has been an Olympic track and field event since Athens, Greece, in 1896. The shot is a heavy metal ball about the size of a grapefruit, and the goal is to hurl it as far as possible with an action that looks more like shoving than throwing. In the Olympic Games, the regulation weights of these small cannonballs are 16 pounds for men and 8.8 pounds for women. In middle school, high school and college events, the shots are lighter.
Generally speaking, the larger the better, because when a shot is too small, you're likely to throw it like a ball rather than use the proper technique. When a shot is too big, though, it will slip in your hand. Don't overlook the importance of shoes made specifically for men's and women's track and field events.
The correct diameter for you is the one where the shot rests on the pad of your palm and your fingers are in the proper throwing position. Those with shorter fingers prefer shots with smaller diameters and those with longer fingers need larger ones. As athletes grow, their hands get bigger and they need shots with progressively larger circumferences to maintain optimum contact areas and push zones.
Shots come in weights from 6-20 pounds. The three regulation weights used most often by shot putters are the easiest sizes to find. When training, shot putters often use heavier shots than the ones they use in competition.
Nelco Scholastic 6-Pound Iron Shot
What you need to know: This budget-friendly option is a great choice for those just getting started with shot putting.
What you'll love: This unisex shot is primarily intended for younger, smaller shot putters but can be used by all ages and athletic abilities.
What you should consider: The 3.66-inch diameter is for smaller hands.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: This shot is regulation-size for high school track-and-field events.
What you'll love: It's precision-made to a 114-millimeter diameter. It is balanced for optimum performance, extremely durable and is a bestseller on Amazon.
What you should consider: Some complained about its packaging.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Gill Athletics Cast Iron 16-Pound Shot
What you need to know: This 16-pound shot is the size used by Olympic male shot putters.
What you'll love: It has an official weight stamp engraved in it itself and comes in weights from 6-20 pounds for training and building strength.
What you should consider: Sooner or later, the paint chips and peels.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Crown Sporting Goods 6-Pound Indoor Iron Shot
What you need to know: The soft polyvinyl shell of this indoor shot is safe to use at home. because it doesn't mark up your floors.
What you'll love: It's great for lightweight speed training because it has the same heft as an iron ball and does not require you to change your grip or technique. The smooth surface has no dents or blemishes.
What you should consider: The lighter weight means the diameter is a bit larger than standard.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Crown Sporting Goods Shot Carry Bag
What you need to know: It looks like a laptop shoulder bag with a curved and heavily reinforced bottom.
What you'll love: This heavy-duty nylon bag is big enough to carry two shots and two discuses to your practices, competitions and meets. It has two inner compartments and an adjustable carry strap. The included guide demonstrates proper exercises for a variety of applications.
What you should consider: The bag is water-resistant, not waterproof.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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David Allan Van writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
