Shot put is a popular sport which has been around for more 2,000 years. This game got its name because it involves the throwing (putting) of the ball which is called the shot. Since 1896, this sport has been a part of Olympic Games. This sport was included in the Olympic program at 1896 Athens Summer Games. After 1896 games, this game has been played regularly at every summer games. There are different styles used in Shot put and the current ones are, the glide and the spin.

Certain rules have been set up by the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) for track and field events like shot put which are followed in all international competitions.


Some important points to remember for shot put are:

• An athlete is given 6 chances to throw a shot put.
• Weight of the ball is determined by IAAF.
• While throwing the ball, an athlete should hold the ball tightly between his neck and shoulder.
• An athlete can wear the bandage at the wrist for protection.
• If an athlete fails to leave the rear half of the circle at the time of throwing the ball, his throw is considered to be a foul throw.
• If an athlete goes out of the circle before the mark is announced by the judge, he/she is disqualified.

A shot put player will earn an illegal throw in four cases

• If the throw starts without a pause after entering the circle.
• If the thrower touches the circle or the ground outside the circle before the shot lands.
• If the shot lands on or outside the throwing sector
• If the competitor does not leave through the back half of the circle after completing the throw.

As per IAAF guidelines, the ball should weigh no less than 7.260 kg for men and 4 kg for women, as of 2010. At the high school level in the United States, the ball weighs 6 kg for men and 3 kg for women.