Performance Analysis: International Vs National Javelin Throwers

Background: Javelin throwing demands precise kinetic chain coordination, yet comparative kinematic studies between international and national athletes remain scarce, limiting insights into performance thresholds. Purpose: To compare seven kinematic parameters-release height (RH), release angle (RA), attitude angle (ATA), angle of attack (AOA), release velocity (RV), impulse phase duration (DIP), and delivery phase duration (DDP)-between international (N=12) and national (N=6) male javelin throwers during major competitions (2018–2023). Methods: Video-derived 2D kinematics from medal throws were analyzed via Kinovea software. Independent t-tests and Cohen's d assessed group differences (α=.05). Results: International throwers exhibited significantly higher RH (p=.047, d=1.11) and shorter DIP (p=.024, d=1.06), with large effects for RA (d=0.94), ATA (d=0.86), and DDP (d=0.83); RV was equivalent (p=.875, d=0.08). Anthropometric advantages (height 187.17 vs. 180.50 cm) underpinned kinematic superiority. Conclusions: Elite performance transcends RV, leveraging RH/DIP efficiency for distance gains. Findings recalibrate training toward temporal/spatial optimization, with profound implications for talent development in emerging athletics nations. Large effects affirm practical utility despite modest samples, warranting 3D validation.

Javelin throw, Biomechanics, Kinematics, Performance analysis, Elite athletes

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