Drill of the Month: March 2006
by Mark Harsha, NTCA Indiana Chairman

Click Here for Video Clip

Heel Turns  – Use this drill to teach the importance of the hips in the throwing events.

Variations

• Heel turns with a partner:

a) The thrower gets into a power position  
b) The partner will place their hand near the right heel of the thrower
c) The thrower will attempt to smack and drive through the partners hand with the heel – focusing on the speed of the heel.  The right thigh will be driven into the left thigh
d) You can do this drill with or with out an implement

• Heel turns with a shot: This is a variation of the partner heel turn.  The shot is used for additional resistance.

• Heel turns with a bottle: This is a variation of the partner heel turn.  If you do not have a partner use a bottle.

Incorrect - sliding hips
If the thrower completes the heel turn drill without hitting the hand, shot or bottle, the thrower slid the hips to the front of the ring.  The hips did not get involved in the throw.  Make sure the thrower stays back on the pivot foot.