Shot Put

track and field · Olympic sport · throwing

Heavy metal sphere. The shot (the ball) is made of solid iron or brass and weighs a lot. Men throw a heavier shot than women do, which makes the sport different challenges for each.

Olympic tradition. Men have been competing in shot put since the modern Olympics started in 1896. Women joined the Olympics in shot put much later, beginning in 1948.

Part of combined events. Shot put isn't just a standalone sport. It's one of the events in the decathlon (10 events for men), heptathlon (7 events for women and men), and pentathlon (5 events for women).

Pure strength contest. Shot put rewards explosive power and technique. Athletes practice their form and build strength specifically to launch the heavy ball farther than their competitors.