Throwing


 * For other meanings see Throwing (disambiguation).



Throwing is the launching of a ballistic projectile by hand.

History and prehistory
Humans are believed to be unusually good throwers due to their high dexterity and good timing capabilities, and it is believed that this is an evolved trait. Evidence of human throwing dates back 2 million years. The 90 mph throwing speed found in many athletes far exceeds the speed at which chimpanzees can throw things, which is about 20 mph. This ability reflects the ability of the human shoulder muscles and tendons to store elasticity until it is needed to propel an object.

Types
Types of throws include overhand throws, underhand throws and using both hands. Overhand throws are usually significantly faster, and ball speeds of 105 mph have been recorded in baseball.

Thrown objects are often intentionally spun for stability.

Thrown weapons
Throwing is used for propelling weapons such as stones, spears at enemies, prey and predators.


 * Knife throwing, the art of throwing a knife at a target
 * Spear throwing was used and until relatively recent times was the predominant mode of weaponry used in warfare
 * Throwing axes are thrown, usually overhand
 * Boomerangs (throwing sticks) are used by Aboriginals for hunting purposes.
 * Shurikenjutsu are traditional Japanese thrown weapons
 * Hand grenades are thrown explosives

Sports and games

 * Bowling
 * Disc golf, golf-like sport played by throwing flying discs
 * throwing of balls and clubs is used in juggling
 * Boomerang flying

Throwing events are:
 * Discus throw
 * Hammer throw
 * Javelin throw
 * Shot put
 * Club throw
 * Darts
 * Baseball, softball
 * Cricket

Sexual differences
Males are often found to be better at throwing. However, it is unclear whether this is biologically based or cultural. Research by Mythbusters found that men and women throw almost equally well with their non dominant hand, and concluded that the sexual differences were probably due to differences in training.