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Open Stone 101 - The Glide
One option you have to throw the open stone is to employ what’s called the, “Glide” technique. When it comes to the stone throw, this is a more simple and straightforward approach than the “Modified South African,” or “Full Spin.” But, don’t let this fool you; the glide is plenty complex and can merit some huge, huge throws. It’s a very worthy technique; here are a few reasons I like the glide:1. It’s a much more consistent movement, which is especially helpful when you consider how inconsistent the stone will be at each games. You may be throwing a heavier...
A pre-turned foot in the Braemar?
On paper, and on film, the Braemar stone throw should be the easiest of the events to master. Yet, for as simple as it looks, there are a few things to remember if you want to pop out a big stone throw. For starters, let's look at rhe set up. (Again, I'm writing this as if I'm coaching a right- handed thrower. So, you lefties will just need to translate/convert this in your head.) For starters, set your feet up in a heel to toe relationship, meaning, your left foot shouldn't be in an equal stance with your right foot;...
Caber Toss: why long sticks give you trouble
It can all crumble at the end if you're not careful. You might have an amazing "pick" that just drops into your hand cradle, a high carry that allows you to drive the stick with speed, and a quick gather step that puts you in just the right position to finish the throw ... but now what? I've seen it countless times in competitions and all too many times to me. When, and how, should we pull the caber? Timing This is such a hard, hard thing to coach, as it all depends on the length of the caber -...
Highland Games Basics: The One Turn
Before you can master the two turn in the weights for distance, you must be proficient in the one turn. Now, I’m not saying you can only throw the one turn for a long period of time before event attempting the two turn; I’m saying don’t abandon the usefulness of a one turn. For me, this drill serves multiple purposes at each of my practices: warm up, initiating the drive to the front of the box and dialing in my finish. Start this drill with your feet in the position where you land after the entry of your first turn....