To perform this exercise properly, the thrower should not only balance
the discus well on the right arm, (supposing it to be on that arm, as
in Plate XVII. fig. 1); but at the moment it leaves the hand, he should
throw the whole of the right side forward, so that the impulse may be
assisted by the weight of the whole body.--(Plate XVII. fig. 2.) This
exercise very much strengthens the body, and developes, in a particular
manner, the limb by which the discus is thrown. It may be usefully
employed in cases where it is desirable to remedy weakness in either of
the arms; and it is well calculated to bring up the power of the left
arm to that of the right. The modern quoit differs from the ancient
discus only in this, that the instrument so called is much smaller than
the discus, that its use is a mere idle pastime, and that the object is
always to throw it as close as possible to a fixed mark, requiring more
skill than strength.
It is evident that the discus may be heaved from above the shoulder
as well as flung from below.--(See Plate XVII. fig. 3.) No exercises
can excel these for the acquirement of power. They ought to be much
practised with both hands. A man of moderate strength will throw a
pound weight of lead a distance of 140 feet, or thereabouts.
Silex 1½ 126 feet.
Ditto ¼ 145
Brick ½ 160