Throw-in physics: How to Maximize your Toss

May 22nd, 2006 | by: WC Bob | View Comments

If there are any physicists reading this blog, I want to let you know that I am on to your game. You speak a smart language and you come up with all kinds of formulas that no one else can understand, but in the end you are just doing it as an excuse to watch football. A few weeks back a physicist explained where players taking penalty kicks should aim. Today, we learn the best angle needed for a maximum length throw-in.

According to physicist Nick Linthorne, the optimum angle of release on a throw-in should be somewhere near 30 degrees. This article explains all the reasons why that is the case and I can almost cut throw the science talk to figure it out.

What it doesn’t touch upon is the physics behind the players who used to do the running flip throw-ins. Remember when that was in fashion? Not only did it look cool but it seemed to launch the ball further than a mere 30 degree toss.

Take a look at this video and you’ll see what I mean.