Page "Javelin throw" Paragraph 4

Unlike the other throwing events ( shotput, discus, and hammer ), the technique used to throw the javelin is dictated by IAAF rules and " non-orthodox " techniques are not permitted.

The javelin must be held at its grip and thrown overhand, over the athlete's shoulder or upper arm.

Further, the athlete is prohibited from turning completely around such that his back faces the direction of throw.

In practice, this prevents athletes from attempting to spin and hurl the javelin sidearm in the style of a discus throw.

Instead of being confined to a circle, javelin throwers are provided with a runway wide and at least in length, ending in a curved arc from which their throw will be measured ; athletes typically use this distance to gain momentum in a " run-up " to their throw.

Like the other throwing events, the competitor may not leave the throwing area ( the runway ) until after the implement lands.

The need to come to a stop behind the throwing arc limits both how close the athlete can come to the line before the release as well as the maximum speed achieved at the time of release.