Supervision

• Constant visual supervision is recommended following initial skill instruction and after all safety concerns have been emphasized.

Instructional Considerations

• Safe throwing and retrieving procedures should be taught and enforced.
• Alternate screening (e.g., baseball backstop) should be used when appropriate throwing cage is not available.
• Students should be in a designated safe zone when not throwing.
• Students should be allowed to select the type/size of discus that feels most comfortable to hold and throw.
• All implements should be transported safely to and from throwing area.
• Students should only have an implement when it is their turn to throw.
• Students should not be allowed to turn (spin) more than 90 degrees in the throwing action.
• Discus must only be thrown in one direction, free of traffic.

Equipment/Facilities

• Implements may include wood/metal (outdoor) discus, rubber (indoor) discus, rubber deck ring or hula hoop. They should be of a size and weight appropriate for the age and ability of the student.
• Implements should not be cracked, chipped or otherwise damaged, and checked regularly.
• Throwing area should be free of obstacles and completely closed to traffic, i.e., other activities must not be located in the area where discus is taking place.
• The landing area should be well marked and void of people during the activity.
• The throwing area should provide safe footing.
• When conditions are wet:
  • Provide more landing area as implements can slide farther on a wet surface.
  • Position all people out of all possible lines of flight as implement may slip out of thrower’s hand more easily under these conditions.
  • Towel or rag should be available for drying the implements.