Throwing and Catching

Throwing Skills#

Throwing is one of the most useful physical skills you can have! From tossing a ball to a friend to throwing a frisbee at the park, throwing well makes many games and activities more fun.

There are two main ways to throw: underhand and overhand.

Underhand Throwing#

Underhand throwing is the easier throw to learn first. Your hand starts low and finishes high.

Steps for underhand throwing:

1. Stand sideways — the opposite shoulder from your throwing hand should face the target
2. Hold the ball in your throwing hand, arm hanging down
3. Step forward with the opposite foot (if throwing with right hand, step with left foot)
4. Swing your arm forward from behind you, keeping it low
5. Release the ball as your arm passes your hip, pointing toward the target
6. Follow through — let your arm continue up toward the target after release

When to use underhand throwing: Bowling, tossing to a young child, rolling/pitching in softball, throwing gently to a partner.

Overhand Throwing#

Overhand throwing is more powerful and is used in sports like baseball, basketball, and many others.

Steps for overhand throwing:

1. Stand sideways — opposite shoulder toward target
2. Raise your throwing hand beside your ear, elbow bent and pointing away
3. Step forward with the opposite foot
4. Rotate your body — your hips turn toward the target as you throw
5. Extend your arm forward, releasing the ball when your arm points at the target
6. Follow through — your arm should finish on the opposite side of your body

Aiming Your Throw#

To throw accurately:

• Look at your target before and during the throw
• Point your non-throwing hand at the target to help aim
• Think about the path of the ball before you throw
• Practice makes perfect — the more you throw, the better your aim!