Attending a shot put and discus throwing camp is a uniquely enriching experience. When you come to a throws camp, you join a group of peers all working towards common goals under expert coaches. Each year, we invite youth, high school, collegiate, post-collegiate, and master throwers to join a team of coaches–-all with the goal of training smarter and throwing farther.

What Makes ThrowLab’s Throwing Camps Different?

We maintain a low coach-to-athlete ratio to ensure that every athlete get individual attention. This also allows our coaches to attend to a broad skill level. Expect a 7:1 ratio of athletes to coaches at our shot put and discus throwing camps. While our expert coaches are proud of their qualifications, what matters most is how ThrowsLab coaches can improve your results. Our athletes are frequently seen in podium spots from USATF, Junior Olympics, and State, Section and League Championships.

What Will I Learn at Shot Put and Discus Throwing Camps?

Our throws camps combine expert coaching and support in a positive learning environment, surrounded by peers. Not only will you learn from the best, but you can connect with the coaches and find the mentorship you may be lacking. Our camps involve a unique set of methods and activities designed to help you achieve new PRs.

The Science Behind the Throw

There is nothing natural about throwing, which is why it requires such intense technique and focus to master. In a throws camp, our athletes learn the science behind the throw, so that they can understand exactly why we throw the way we do and how to perfect their own techniques. Both shot put camps and discus camps drill down to the specific techniques that will increase your throw distance consistently.

Effective Drills and Movement

The key to a great throw is excellent technique combined with consistent training. In our throws camps, athletes practice a lot of fundamental and technical drills, movements, and throwing alongside coaches. Observing outstanding technique and then applying the same techniques in practice speeds up the learning process. Throws camps are designed to accelerate your throwing progress.

Analyze and Correct Throws

Analysis and correction is one of the most valuable parts of a throws camp. Our expert coaches analyze each athlete’s throw and identify what part of the throw is holding you back. We correct common mistakes early, then go deeper to personalize instruction for each camper. By making small adjustments, athletes are able to make big gains in performance.

What Does a Day at a Throws Camp Look Like?

Shot put and discus throws camps can take place over a single day or multiple days. While the format changes depending on the camp focus and time of year, there is a general order of activities. Days typically begin with drills followed by a lunch, and then finishing with throws. This format provides athletes with a solid introduction and foundation to build skills upon in the second half of the day.

What Do I Need to Bring to a Throws Camp?

Ideally, you should have a shot put, two discs, throwing shoes, a water bottle, and a towel. There is always some equipment on hand to loan to those who need it, and we come with some equipment available for purchase. Throwing shoes are certainly helpful, but they are not necessary for learning the drills, movements, and techniques. Athletes should also bring a snack and lunch so that they can maintain their energy throughout a long and activity-filled day.

Frequently asked questions about ThrowsLab Camps

• What is a typical day like at a ThrowsLab camp?

  A ThrowsLab camp offers a balance of drills and throwing. The order is usually drills, lunch, then throwing. We make adjustments as-needed, depending on the format and time of year.

• Can I still come to a ThrowsLab camp if I don’t have throwing shoes or equipment?

  Yes. Not having throwing shoes isn’t ideal but still manageable to learn the technique, drills, and movements. We provide other equipment in limited quantities for ThrowsLab camps. You can also buy equipment from ThrowsLab at the camp.

• What kind of equipment do I need to bring to a ThrowsLab camp?

  Bring a shot put, two discs, throwing shoes, water bottle, and a towel to dry off implements just in case it’s necessary.

• Is lunch provided at a ThrowsLab camp?

  No. There are usually local places to eat lunch or you can bring food. There is an an hour for lunch each day at ThrowsLab camps.

• How many coaches and athletes will be at a ThrowsLab camp?

  We are very committed to keeping our coach-to-athlete ratio as small as possible. Our goal is no more than a 7:1 ratio. This means every athlete gets a ton of one-on-one instruction, but we’re also able to attend to a broad range of skill levels.

About your Throws coach

Coach John Fouts is the owner of ThrowsLab. He is certified by USATF as a level 2 coach, completed level 2 of Arete Throws Nation TCR™ system, and holds an NCACE Strength and Conditioning Coach Certification. He was a two-sport athlete in high school (Football & Track) and played his college football at Santa Clara University and UCLA. In 2011 he became a full-time coach and currently coaches Track at Diablo Valley College. Over the past 7 years his athletes have won 2 Junior Olympic National Titles, achieved two top 5 finishes at the USATF Junior Outdoor Championships, has had 5 podium finishes at state, won 58 discus and shot put titles, broke a 42 year old NCS section record in Discus (205’ 7”), and 9 school records. John currently lives with his wife Carol (Mrs. ThrowsLab) and their children in Clayton.