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History of Athletics
The history of world athletics can be traced back to several games held in
Europe in the classical era:
Panhellenic Games:

The Pythian Games (founded 527 BC) held in Delphi every four years

The Nemean Games (founded 516 BC) held in Argolid every two years

The Isthmian Games (founded 523 BC) held on the Isthmus of Corinth
every two years

The Roman Games Not of purely Greek roots, rather arising from Etruscan
roots, the Roman Games did not focus on footraces and throwing. The Greek
sports of chariot racing and wrestling, as well as the Etruscan sport of
gladiatorial combat, took center stage here.
Olympic Games -The Ancient Olympic Games in series of competitions held
between representatives of several city-states from Ancient Greece, which
featured mainly athletic but also combat and chariot racing events.
A legend persists that Heracles and his father Zeus were the progenitors of
the Games.

The Ancient Games featured running events, a pentathlon (consisting of a

jumping event, discus and javelin throws, a foot race and wrestling), boxing,
wrestling, and equestrian events. The Games were held every four years,
and this period, known as an Olympiad.
The Olympic Games had a strong presence in the 6th and 5th centuries BC,
but then gradually declined in importance as the Romans gained power and
influence in Greece.
The Tailteann Games(claimed foundation 1829 BC) held near modern
Telltown in Ireland, this thirty-day meeting included foot races and stonethrowing events.
The Celts, Teutons and Goths who succeeded the Romans, also held athletic
contests but however, these were often related to combat training. During
the Middle Ages sons of noblemen would be trained in running, leaping and
wrestling, in addition to riding, jousting and arms-training. Contests between
rivals and friends were common on both official and unofficial grounds.
Starting from 1796-1798, L' Olympiade de la Rpublique was held in
revolutionary France, annually and is an early forerunner to the modern
summer Olympic Games. The premier event of this competition was a
footrace, but various ancient Greek disciplines were also on display. The
1796 Olympiade also marks the introduction of the metric system into sport.
The first Olympic Congress of a newly created International Olympic
Committee was held from June 16 to June 23, 1894, at the Sorbonne
University in Paris and it was decided to revive the Olympic games two years
later in Athens.
Olympic Games were revived in 1896 and less than 250 athletes
participated. The Olympics featured nine sporting disciplines: athletics,
cycling, fencing, gymnastics, shooting, swimming, tennis, weightlifting, and
wrestling.
Women were first allowed to participate in track and field events in the 1928
Olympics.
The Winter Olympics
At the 1921 Olympic Congress, in Lausanne, it was decided to hold a winter
version of the Olympic Games. The Winter Olympics were created to include
snow and ice sports impossible to hold during the Summer Games. Figure
skating (in 1908 and 1920) and ice hockey (in 1920) were featured as
Olympic events at the Summer Olympics.
The IOC desired to expand this list of sports to encompass other winter

activities. A winter sports week (it was actually 11 days) was held in 1924 in
Chamonix, France; this event became the first Winter Olympic Games.
International Amateur Athletics Federation (IAAF), An international
governing body, the International Amateur Athletics Federation (IAAF), was
founded in 1912; it adopted its current name, the International Association of
Athletics Federations, in 2001.
The IAAF established separate outdoor World Championships in 1983.
Regional games like the European Championships, the Pan-American Games,
and the Commonwealth Games were also born.
In addition there is a professional Golden League circuit, culminating in the
IAAF World Athletics Final, and indoor championships such as the World
Indoor Championships. The sport has a very high profile during major
championships, especially the Olympics, but otherwise is less popular.
The AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) was the governing body in the United
States until it collapsed under pressure from advancing professionalism in
the late 1970s. A new governing body called The Athletics Congress (TAC)
was formed. It was later renamed USA Track & Field (USATF or USA T&F). An
additional, less structured organization, the Road Runners Club of America
(RRCA), also exists in the United States to promote road racing.

Introduction of Athletics in india :History of Indian athletics dates back to the Vedic Period. Although it is indeed a
mystery when exactly athletics in India made its presence felt as a distinct sports form;
however it can be said that the well illustrated values of the Atharva Vedacontoured the
limn of Indian athletics.
In the Vedic age or much later in the period of theRamayanaand Mahabharata, Athletics
were typically a common form of sports. Sports like chariot racing, archery,
horsemanship, military tactics, wrestling, weight lifting, swimming and hunting made
their presence felt quite colossally back in that era. Historical evidence unveils that
Indian athletics acquired a remarkable dimension, when Buddhism held sway in India.
Many interesting athletic events like archery, horse riding, and chariot-racing were in
vogue during that period. Apart from these games, some other games like hiking,
walking, and 'gulli-danda' also made their presence felt at a later period in ancient India.
Almost all these games were defined as a 'must' in the military training sessions of the
Indian empires, during that period.
With the course of time, the nature and formation of sports in India started to change.

During the medieval period in the history of Indian athletics, Indians started playing
sports like running, jumping and throwing, etc. Most of these sports were actually
ancestors of the track eventand field events of today's athletics. All these sports were
immensely popular in India, as they were quite capable of improving one's physical
fitness.

Skills in running events

Participating in and performing reasonably well in most running events
requires a few key skills. First, you need to develop fundamental strength to
complete the event and be competitive. You also need a sense of timing, or
pacing, so you expend your energy effectively. The ability to sprint or
drastically increase your speed when needed helps immensely. Finally, you
need to maintain a form that is both conducive to running well and
comfortable for your body.
Endurance
Whether running 100 m sprints or 10 k races, you will need to establish a base
level of endurance to compete effectively. The level of endurance required of you
will vary depending on the distance of the event you run. Longer events such as the
mile, two mile, and longer runs require endurance to simply finish the race. This
endurance is built by practicing runs at equal or longer lengths, concentrating on
distance before speed.
Pacing
When running longer distances, ration your energy, so you don't spend it all in one
portion of the race. This plays into endurance. A pace is usually a small section of
your overall distance, run at an ideal interval time, combined with subsequent
intervals, to produce an overall ideal race time. This can be as simple as running a
quarter mile in 90 seconds, four times in a row, for a total of a six-minute mile.
Sprinting
Sprinting is Important to moving up the ranks in competitive races and
finishing strong. You should practice sprinting both from a standstill to build
strength, and during a run to build a feel for the momentary strain of
sprinting while already under duress. The latter is interchangeably referred

to as interval training or the Fartlek method. You can practice this by

integrating intervals of short bursts of speed for 60 to 180 seconds into your
distance workout if you are a distance runner. Sprinters running events in
distances of 400 m or less will want to focus more on increasing overall
speed and high-capacity endurance.
Recovery
One of the most essential skills of a event runner is recovery. This includes
cooling down, stretching, proper care and rest. Cool down with a five to 10
minute jog after any running event. Once your heart rate has decreased,
begin stretching. Thoroughly stretch your legs, including your hamstrings,
calves and quads. If you have any soreness, ice the affected muscles and
minimize strain until the pain subsides. Finally, every serious training or
competition regimen should include at least one day off for rest.

Skills and techniques of jumping events :1. Lightning speed, an accurate take-off and an explosive spring is
the secret to great long jumping.
2. The first half of your run-up should be rhythmic and relaxed. About
halfway down, pump those arms and legs to get maximum speed and hit the
board in top gear. Your speed will give you the momentum needed to
achieve a good 'flight' and long jump. On take-off, power yourself by driving
your leading leg upward.

3. It is important to help force your body through the air by circling your
arms. They should first go downward, then backward, upward and finally
forward.

4. To delay landing too early, thrust both legs outward in their extended
position, and drive your hands down. This will thrust your shoulders and
head forward.

5. On landing, bend your knees and move your upper body forward as you
hit the sand. To get a longer jump and prevent yourself from falling
backwards, lean to one side as you land, using one elbow for balance. After
landing, remember walking back through the sand pit will get you
disqualified in a competition.

High Jump:Approach Drills

All acceleration work described in the Long Jump should be done for High
Jumpers. After athletes grasp the idea of pushing, they will need to be
taught to stand up earlier in the start. This is similar to the difference in the
100m start and the 110 or 100 Hurdle start; there is less time to push.
Straight Start
Run only the first five steps with and without the transition
3 Point Line Runs
If you have access to a basketball court, run the three-point line. Emphasis
is on pushing to the outside and single track foot contacts. Options are to
run the whole line or to take off (pop up) at the top (where foul shots are
taken).
Circle Runs or Skips
These can be done anywhere and any diameter of circle. Try increasing
speed on the approach. Emphasize pushing to the outside and single track
running. Run or skip the circle 2-3 times in a row. They can be done with
takeoffs (pop ups) as well
Straights with Circles
Have the athlete run in straight line (like the linear part of the approach)

and then run 2-3 circles. This is a good drill to link the two parts and can be
done away from the pit
Pit Circles
Once the athlete has learned how to run the earlier circle drills try this one.
Have them start an arm length away and just inside the near standard.
They will run a circle drill and pop up into the pit, landing on their feet. It
may take a couple of attempts to figure out how many steps are needed.
Once this is determined mark the far point of the approach with tape or a
marker. You will see that this drill can be set up to closely match the
athletes turn. Try it with a slower straight away run emphasizing the
transition, complete a circle and pop up.
The Takeoff
During the takeoff, athletes will transition from a curved approach to a
vertical takeoff. During the takeoff steps the athlete should maintain speed
and "stay away" from the bar. The last two steps of the approach also need
to be done on the turn with foot contacts directly in front of each other.
Watch for the tendency of the athlete to lean into the bar upon planting the
takeoff foot. If the takeoff is executed properly the athlete will feel like they
are planting the foot "inside" because they are still leaning away from the
bar and running on the turn
The penultimate and takeoff steps will be rocking action, full foot contacts.
There should be no heel recovery on these steps, as the foot will only step
over the ankle or mid calf. The plant for the takeoff will occur just inside
(towards the far standard) the near standard with the toe of the takeoff foot
aiming at the far standard. Arm action can either continue single arm or be
double arm at takeoff. When the athlete plants the takeoff leg, it will need to
be braced or ready for the jump. They will be getting great energy back
from the plant, so they need to make sure to continue moving over the top
of the leg. If the approach was done correctly their back should have been
to the bar at the plant. The knee of the penultimate leg will be brought up
because of stored energy from the previous step. Coaching of this leg
action should be to get the ankle to the bar and knee away from the bar.
Athletes should leave this knee up and let the takeoff leg come up to meet
it.

Takeoff Drills
3 and 5 Step Jumps
Have the athlete run back (arm length from the bar, just inside the near
standard) 3 or 5 steps marking the spot where the step is. This mark will be
inside of their normal run because they will not be moving as fast. Make
sure they still run the turn.
Walk in or Jog in 5 Steps
Same as above but move to the takeoff spot by either walking of jogging in.
This is good linking to the full approach and less stressful than full
approach jumps.
Full Approach with Scissors Kick
Athletes will run their approach but clear the bar with an upright scissoring
action of their legs. Emphasis will be on the takeoff step action before bar
clearance. A bar or a bungi bar can be used for this drill. Set at a height
where it will not alter the takeoff step sequence.
Bar Clearance and Takeoff
Like the other jumps, it is difficult to separate this phase from previous
ones. There are a couple of drills listed that will work on the dynamic
flexibility and spatial awareness needed to arch over a bar. During the
takeoff the head should have been looking at the far standard. As the
athlete becomes airborne, with hips near the bar, the head should look
directly back so that the hips will rise over the bar. To get the feet to clear
the bar, the athlete will bring their head back to the chest, finally landing on
their upper back in the pit.
In the Pit Drills
Back Arch
Have athlete place their hands on the ground next to their head (fingers
pointing towards shoulders) and press up. Progress to doing this drill in the
pit.
Feet touches- Get to a back arch position in the pit. Push off and quickly try
to get the hands to touch the feet before the back lands in the pit.
Standing Bar Clearance
Have the athlete start with their back to the bar on two feet. Clear the bar

and land in the pit. Jog in towards the center of the pit, jump or turn 180
degrees so that both feet land close to the bar and clear the bar like the
standing drill.

Technique of shot put:1. Holding the shot

The shot is held at the base of the fingers not the

palm

The fingers are slightly spread apart with the

thumb for support.

The hand will be bent back in the cocked position

when holding the shot. It looks like you are caring
a pizza.

2. Neck placement

Raise the shot above your head

Lower the shot straight down until it is under your

jaw

Push the shot into your neck

Lift your elbow parallel to the floor. Dont squeeze

your elbow towards your back

Check to see that your thumb is pointing down

towards your clavicle

The palm should be pointing towards the throwing

direction

Goal Two: Delivery of the shot

1. Delivery of the shot

Eyes to the ceiling

Punch the shot away from the neck

Keep the elbow high at all times. Lowering the

elbow can cause the shot to be thrown like a
baseball and could result in an injury

Finish the punch with a flip of the wrist

The left side of the body will be stopped and

locked to help form the block

The left arm will be tucked close to the side of the

body

Technique of discus throw:Goal One: Discus grip and release

1. Holding the discus

Place discus in your throwing hand

Spread fingers out with index finger inline with wrist

Place fingers first knuckles over the disc

2. Release the discus

When releasing the discus have your palm down

Squeeze the discus out (bar of soap)

The disc will come off the index finger

The disc will spin in a clockwise direction for a right handed thrower

3. Drills used to teach the grip and release excellent time for a competition
Arm swings Use this drill to teach about centrifugal force
a) The thrower stands with feet shoulder width apart
b) Place the disc into throwing hand
c) Swing the disc level with the shoulders back and forth catching it in your left hand
d) The athlete should feel the discus pushing out on the hand

Discus bowling Use this drill for proper discus release.

a) The thrower will place the discus in his hand with proper placement
b) The thrower will bowl the discus to his partner that is standing 15 feet away
c) Remember to squeeze the discus out making sure the discus rolls off the index finger
and does not wobble
d) Once the thrower becomes proficient at 15 feet move the partners farther away form
each other or have the thrower bowl at a target

Throws for height Use this drill for proper release of the discus
a) The thrower stands with feet shoulder width apart
b) Place the disc into throwing hand
c) Swing the discus forward and back next to your body two times
d) After two swings throw the discus straight up with a proper release remembering to
squeeze the discus out. Make sure the throwing arm is straight

Skip throws Use this drill for proper discus release.

a) the thrower stands with feet shoulder width apart and facing perpendicular to the
throwing direction
b) place the disc into throwing hand
c) swing the disc level with the shoulders back and forth catching it in your left hand
d) After two swings throw the disc close to the ground with proper release remembering to
squeeze the disc out and keep the palm flat

Goal two: Power Position

1. Body position in the power position

The thrower will stand perpendicular to the throwing direction

The feet position will be shoulder width apart with left foot
slightly behind the right foot

The thrower needs to be in an athletic position

The thrower will shift 80% percent of his/her weight onto the
right leg

The thrower will twist his/her upper body completely opposite the throwing

direction. This position from up above will look like an X

The chest, knee and toe should be in line

The thrower extends the right arm out from the side of the body

The left arm will be extended out from the body with a right angle relationship to
the right arm

2. Throwing from the power position

Use cones when first teaching to throw from the power position, so the athlete does
not have to worry about the discus falling out of his /her hands

Over exaggerate the use of the legs in the throw especially the hips

The sequence of the throw will be hips legs arm

Start the throw by turning the right hip to the front of the ring

Once the hips start moving the legs will extend upwards

Sweep the left arm out and around

Once the left arm reaches the front of the ring bring it in tight to the body to form a
block

The left side of the body will stop to aid in accelerating the discus

Release the discus

Javelin Throw:Javelin is a sport that athletic in nature. The techniques of javelin throw could
also be broken in to phrases. These include:
1. The grip. In the finish hold, the whole finger is wrapped round the cord with
the index finger straight at the edge of the shaft and the javelin comfortably
resting on the palm.
2. The carriage.The javelin is carried over the head at the initial stage of the run
-up with the missile carried slightly above the head level and the tip of the
missile slightly pointing upwards.

3. Run- up.The purpose of the run-up is to enable the thrower gather enough
momentum and get into the throwing mood. The run-up can be divided into
three parts.
4. The release. At this point of throw, the toe of the leading leg points sideways.
The body weight is slightly shifted to the rear leg, the free hand slightly raised
with the elbow pointing sideways and used to maintain balance.
5. Follow through and recovery

Equipements used in athletics:Starting Blocks

Starting blocks serve as one of the most important pieces of equipment for track events of 400
meters and shorter, according to USA Track and Field. Officials use starting blocks not as an aid
to runners, but as a means for protecting the surface of the track. Most starting blocks consist of
foot pads that runners can adjust based on their preferred starting position.
Hurdles
Hurdles is a specific track event that combines the skill of running with the ability to jump over
stationary objects. USA Track and Field regulates not only the height of the hurdles for different
events, but the space in between the individual hurdles. Hurdle heights range anywhere between .
84 meters for women's events to 1.067 meters for men's events, according to USA Track and
Field. In men's 110-meter competition, the distance between hurdles is 9.14 meters, up from 8.5
meters in the women's 100-meter event.
Discus
The discus event features the use of a rounded disc, challenging competitors to see
who can throw the object the farthest. Like other events, equipment regulations specify
the size and weight and makeup of the discus. Rules specify the discus be made of
wood or other similar material with a metal rim, and may be either solid material or
hollow. The weight specifications range anywhere between .75 and 2 kilograms,
depending on the competitor's preference, but shall have an outside diameter ranging
between 166 and 221 millimeters.

Javelin
It might seem just like a long stick with a pointy end, but track-and-field regulations specify that
the javelin weigh between 400 and 800 grams, with a minimum length of 750 millimeters and a
maximum length of 1060 millimeters. Rules stipulate that the javelin must be made of metal or
other similar material, with three main parts: the head, shaft and cord grip to aid the player in
throwing.
Shot Put
The shot put is an event that requires players to throw a large metal ball as far as possible down
the field. The ball, known as the "shot," is made of solid metal and may have a latex covering on
the outside to assist competitors with their grip. For men's competition, the shot weighs 7.26
kilograms. For women, the shot weighs 4 kilograms.

Rules and regulations of athletics:Athletics

Rules

And

Regulations

Running Events
From the firing of the starters gun to breasting the finishing tape, an athlete is
expected to adhere strictly to some basic rules like he/she must always start behind the
start line and must remain in lane throughout the race.
Jumping the gun can lead to disqualification from the game. Running before the
starters gun is fired is declared as a false start and can eventually lead to
disqualification, if the runner faults twice. Sometimes, athletes are warned before being
disqualified.
If a runner tries to impede a fellow athletes progress by blocking, shoving or
interfering to gain unfair advantage, he/she is disqualified from the game.
A runner must always wear sneakers or athletic shoes during the game.
In shorter events such as in 800 meters race, athletes should stay inside the
lane. In longer events, they are allowed to move to the innermost lanes with a condition
that they should not touch the other participants.
Throwing Events
In throwing events like javelin, hammer throw and short put, an athlete is
expected to aim farther than anybody else. Just like the jumping events, only the
longest throw counts here.
Javelin is the only event that allows the participant to run. The participants dart
through a runway of 30 meters before pitching their javelin.
In shot put, discus and hammer throw, athletes are allowed to spin their object
within a pre-defined circle to create momentum before lobbing. A six millimetres wide

iron band trimmed in white encircles the area. Touching the top of the iron band or the
ground outside while hurling can lead to disqualification. Also, there is a wooden stop
board at the front to keep athletes from slewing out of the circle. Athletes can hit the
board, but touching the top of the board may lead to disqualification.
In all throwing events, the object lobbed must land within a specified area.
Jumping Events
In jumping events, the athletes run through a runway and as high as possible.
However, the rules vary according to the events.
Mots jumping events have a sand pit or a pad to enable the athlete land easily
after the jump. The foot of the athlete should not touch the ground before the jump, or
else its declared a scratch and earns him zero points. The length of the jump is
measured from the line to the point where foot touches the ground.
If the athletes happen to fall back after landing, the distance measured is to the
contact point. The athletes are given three ties or chances and the best try is counted.
The same rules apply to vertical jump events like high jump and pole vault,
except for the way the distance is measured here. A height goal marked by a bar is set
by the athlete and if cleared, they score for the specific round. Some events allow three
chances to the athletes, while some other events allow the athletes to keep trying on
higher bars until they fail.
History
Athletics has been the heart and soul of Summer Olympics since its birth in 1896.
Modern summer games now constitute of road running events, track and field events
and race walking events. Though cross-country running was earlier a part of the
Olympics, it was dropped after the Summer Olympics in 1924. After short race walk was
incorporated in 1952 Summer Games, no new sport has been added to the athletics
programme. Though the early six editions saw the team racing events, athletic triathlon
and pentathlon was later replaced by decathlon and medley relay was replaced by
even-leg relays. A few standing jump competitions and throwing events, which made an
experimental visit in 1908 and 1912, were removed entirely in the remaining versions.

Athletic Awards:

Abebe Bikila Award:- The Abebe Bikila Award is an annual prize given by the New York
Road Runners club (NYRR) to honour individuals who have made a significant contribution
to the sport of long-distance running. The first recipient of the award was Ted Corbitt, a
founder of both NYRR and the Road Runners Club of America, who received the honour on

October 27, 1978.[1] The award is named in honour of the two-time Olympic marathon
winner Abebe Bikila of Ethiopia.

AIMS World Athlete of the Year Award

The AIMS World Athlete of the Year Award is a long-distance running prize which is given annually
by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) to the top male and
female athletes of the year.

Best Female Track Athlete ESPY Award

The Best Female Track Athlete ESPY Award was presented annually between 1993 and 2006 to
the female track and field athlete, irrespective of nationality, adjudged to be the best in a
given calendar year. Beginning in 2007, this award was combined with the parallel Best Male Track
Athlete ESPY Award into the single Best Track and Field Athlete ESPY Award.

Best Male Track Athlete ESPY Award

The Best Male Track Athlete ESPY Award was presented annually between 1993 and 2006 to
the male track and field athlete, irrespective of nationality, adjudged to be the best in a
given calendar year. Beginning in 2007, this award was combined with the parallel Best Female
Track Athlete ESPY Award into the single Best Track and Field Athlete ESPY Award.

Best Track and Field Athlete ESPY Award

The Best Track and Field Athlete ESPY Award has been presented since 2007, with the exception
of 2009, to the track and field athlete, irrespective of nationality or gender, adjudged to be the best in
a given calendar year. The award supersedes the Best Female Track Athlete ESPY Award and Best
Male Track Athlete ESPY Award.

The Bowerman
The Bowerman is an annual track and field award that is the highest accolade given to the year's
best student-athlete in American collegiate track and field. It is named after Oregon track and field
and cross country coach Bill Bowerman and is administered by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross
Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA).[1]
The winners of the award are announced in a mid-December ceremony held in conjunction with
the USTFCCCA annual convention.

European Athlete of the Month

The European Athlete of the Month is an award that can be won by athletes participating in events
within the sport of athletics organised by the European Athletic Association (EAA). Starting in 2007,
including athletics events.

European Athlete of the Year Trophy

The European Athlete of the Year Trophy is an annual prize awarded to sportspeople
participating in athletics, including track and field,road running and cross country
running competitions. The election has been organised by the European governing body for
the sport of athletics, the European Athletic Association (EAA), since 1993.

Gatorade Player of the Year awards

The Gatorade Player of the Year awards are given annually to male and female highschool student-athletes in the United States.[1][2] They are given for boys' baseball, boys'football,
girls' softball, girls' volleyball, boys' basketball, girls' basketball, boys' cross country, girls' cross
country, boys' soccer, girls' soccer, boys' track & field, and girls' track & field.[1]
A "State Player of the Year" award is given to the best student-athlete in each of the twelve sports in
the District of Columbia and each of the fifty states, where each sport is recognized as an
interscholastic sport.[3] Selection is based on three criteria: athletic achievement, academic
excellence, and exemplary character (including sportsmanship, and participation in community and
other activities).[3] Twelve "National Player of the Year" awards are then given, to the best studentathlete in each of the twelve sports, chosen from the state winners in the respective sport.

Golden Spike award (Belgium)

The Gouden Spike (English: Golden Spike) is the most important athletics prize in Belgium. The
prize honours the best Belgian male and female athlete of the year and the best male and female
Belgian young talent of the year.

IAAF World Athlete of the Year

The IAAF Athlete of the Year award is a prize that can be won by athletes participating in events
within the sport of athletics organised by the International Athletic Foundation of the International
Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), including track and field, cross country running, road
running, and racewalking.

Jesse Owens Award

The Jesse Owens Award is an annual track and field award that is the highest accolade given out
by USA Track and Field (USATF).[1] As the country's highest award for the sport, it bears Jesse
Owens' name in recognition of his significant career, which included four gold medals at the1936
Olympic Games.[2] First awarded in 1981 to hurdler Edwin Moses, it was created to recognize the

season's top American performer in track and field competitions. In 1996, the award was divided into
two categories, with both a male and female winner. The 1996 winners, Michael Johnson and Gail
Devers, each won two gold medals at that year's Olympics in Atlanta.[3] Up to 2008, the award was
voted on by members of the United States athletics media only, but in 2009 fans were able to vote
via the USA Track and Field website, with their opinions contributing 10% of the overall result.

National Track and Field Hall of Fame

The National Track and Field Hall of Fame located within the Armory Foundation (the former Fort
Washington Avenue Armory) at 216 Fort Washington Avenue, between 168th and 169th Streets,
in Washington Heights, in the New York City borough of Manhattan, is a museum operated by The
Armory Foundation in conjunction with USA Track & Field.[1] The stated goal of the Hall is to reflect
upon, appreciate, and honor the past by salutingAmericans who have made important contributions
to the history of Track and Field.[2] Inductees to the Hall of Fame include athletes, coaches,
contributors, officials, event directors, journalists and administrators.[3] The USA Track & Field has
been inducting members into the Hall since 1974. Currently there are 249 people enshrined.

Track & Field News Athlete of the Year

The Track & Field Athlete of the Year award is given to track and field athletes by Track & Field
News magazine, an American sports magazine. A panel of international track and field experts
organized by the magazine selects the winners. The award has been given to men since 1959 and
women since 1974.

USATF Masters Hall of Fame

The USA Masters Hall of Fame is the Masters section of the National Track and Field Hall of Fame.
It is intended to select worthy athletes from the various divisions of Masters athletics involved in the
sports of track and field, road running and race walking. They are selected from nominees proposed
by the Hall of Fame Committee, a joint committee under the supervision of the Masters Track and
Field (MTF) and Masters Long Distance Running (LDR) committees of USATF, the current national
governing body supervising the sport in the United States. Voters include the members of the Hall of
Fame committee, the Executive Boards of the MTF and LDR and the members of the Hall of Fame
itself .

Famous Indian Athletes:Leander Paes

Image Credit: BCCL

No one has brought more laurels for India in Lawn Tennis than Leander Paes. This man
has stopped time (to put it mildly), and continues to shine as the Doubles player. For the
record, he is the Indian player with most number of Grand Slam wins under his belt that
includes Wimbeldon, French Open, US Open and Australian Open which eluded him till
2012.

Sushil Kumar

Image Credit: BCCL

When it comes to competitive tournaments like Olympics or Commonwealth

Games, Sushil Kumar is Indias go to man. He made heads turn when he won gold
medal in the 66 kg freestyle competition at the FILA2010 World Wrestling
Championships. This was Indias first gold at the event. He followed this victory with
medals in 2010 World Wrestling Championships, 2010 Commonwealth Games and
2012 London Olympics (where he won a Silver for India).

Sardara Singh

Image Credit: BCCL

Born in 1986, Sardara Singh has emerged to be among the best hockey players in the
country. Over the years, he has scored a number of match winning performances for
India. Some of his biggest achievements include: Best Player of Tournament at the 2012
Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, Player of the Tournament at 2010 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup and
Player of the Tournament at 2010 Olympic Qualifier. In the recently concluded Hockey
India League, he was the highest paid player bought at the price of Rs 42.49 lakh.

Vijender Singh

Image Credit: BCCL

Suave and a top performer in the boxing circuit, Vijender Singh has helped India
establish a reputation in the international boxing circuit. He won the first ever medal in
Olympics in boxing for India in 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Sania Mirza

Image Credit: BCCL

No Indian player in the history was able to break into the top 50 of ATP rankings. That
was until Sania Mirza burst onto the scene. This player with one of the best forehands in
the tennis circuit had the highest ranking of 27.

Saina Nehwal

Image Credit: BCCL

Another woman athlete who has achieved heights that until few years back seemed
unattainable. Her current ranking in international badminton is 2, leaving the best Indian
players of past eras miles behind. Saina won Bronze for India in 2012 London Olympics.

Sachin Tendulkar

Image Credit: BCCL

What can be said about the man who has scaled every peak that is there to be scaled in
cricket. Though Tendulkar has retired from One Day cricket, his billions of fans through
the world hope he continues for years in Test cricket.

Mary Kom

Image Credit: BCCL

Woman power continues. Belonging to an impoverished family, Mary Kom has fought
against all odds to emerge as the top athlete in India. The biggest achievement of her
career was the Bronze medal in 2012 London Olympics.
Making India proud on home ground and beyond, the above sportspersons have more
than proved their mettle. Let us find inspiration in their glory and hope that these stars
will continue to shine forever!

Top 10 popular athletes in the world

1- Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal Soccer

Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro, OIH, commonly known as Cristiano Ronaldo, is a
Portuguese footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish La Liga club Real Madrid and
who

serves

as

captain

of

the

Portuguese

national

team.

best modern-day footballer (alongside Lionel Messi), described as a fast, tricky, strong,
skillful winger and striker who will take on any defender with his dribbling and pace; he hits
his free kicks with power and pace, and is able to beat defenders off the dribble and cross
the ball. He is able to score with his head and both feet. He is also an accurate set piece
and penalty kick taker. He is a complete player of modern football, according to Kaka,
Choosing the best player in the world is relative because it depends on what you do
collectively. (Lionel) Messi and Cristiano are the best players but Id say Cristiano Ronaldo is
the

most

complete

player

in

modern

football.

Manchester United snapped him up from Sporting Club when he was 18. Real Madrid
snapped him up for $130 million dollars. And he has not disappointed, snapping goals
with such regularity as the lynchpin of Reals ouster of Barcelona as the kings of Spain. He
is the athlete with the most number of Facebook followers. Nike and Castrol are ardent
admirers as well.

Visi: www.RonaldoCR7.com for more detail about Cristiano Ronalod

Income Detail and Sponsorship Deals.
Also-> Top 10 Best Football Striker in The World

2- Lionel Messi, Argentina Soccer

only stands 57, but this small package has definitely yielded some huge things. Time
Magazine once hailed him as King Leo. He has sublime skills on the football field, and he is
the most talented in history. Messi is a dynamo and unstoppable scoring machine on it.
He has won the Ballon dOr as the World Player of the Year four Consecutive years. On the
team front, name it and his club team probably has more than one copy of it the
Champions League, European Super Cup, Club World Cup, La Liga, Copa del Rey,
Spanish Super Cup. He is now more focused in helping out his native Argentinas national
team as well, having been appointed as team captain in their drive to qualify for the World
Cup in 2014.

3 Usain Bolt, Jamaica Sprinter

For His Achievements in Sprinting he Nicknamed as Lightning Bolt. he is one of the Top 10
popular

athletes

in

the

world.

born 21 August 1986, is a Jamaican sprinter widely regarded as the fastest person ever. He
is the first man to hold both the 100 meters and 200 meters world records since fully
automatic time measurements became mandatory in 1977. Along with his teammates, he
also set the world record in the 4100 metres relay. He is the reigning Olympic champion in
these three events, the first man to win six Olympic gold medals in sprinting, and a five-time
World champion. He was the first to achieve a double double by winning 100 m and 200 m
titles at consecutive Olympics (2008 and 2012) and topped this through the first double
triple

(including

4100m

relays). (Wickipedia)

The man with the appropriate name, Bolt makes sprinting look easy, often slowing down
before the finish line but still breaking world records by a comfortable margin. He will then
strike his lightning bolt pose for the world to see. Bolt is fast, and Puma moved the fastest in
signing up the sprinter.
Also Read-> 12 Most Inspirational Athletes In Sports History

4 David Beckham, England Soccer

David Robert Joseph Beckham (born 2 May 1975) free kick magician English footballer.
He Is Regarded on of the Most Popular Footballer in History, and also the Richest
Soccer Player in the History. He has played for Manchester United, Preston North End,
Real Madrid, Milan, Los Angeles Galaxy and the England national team for which he holds
the appearance record for an outfield player. he is at 3rd position in our list of popular
athletes, Beckham has captained England 59 times. With his free kick goal against Ecuador
in the second round of the 2006 FIFA World Cup, Beckham gained membership into two of
footballs exclusive clubs: he became the only English player (and the 21st player
regardless of nationality) to score in three world cups. See Some of his Popular and
Cool Pic.
Also Read-> 10 Highest Paid Soccer Players 2015

5 Kobe Bryant USA Basketball

Kobe Bean Bryant, nicknamed the Black Mamba, is an American professional basketball
player, Formerly a high-flying dunker, Bryant is now a prolific jump shooter and phenomenal
defender

in

the

National

Basketball

Association

(NBA).

His confidence translates to him taking control of late game situations and his game winning
shots are always mind blowing. Nobody can forget his 81 point game Still a second most
points scored in a game Record. Bryant has won five championships and earned one MVP
Award. After Jorden He is The Most Popular Basketball Player in America. equally Popular
in China also.

1.

Medicine balls are an important piece of exercise equipment. The

ball, which can weigh anywhere from two to twenty-five pounds, is
typically the size of a basketball but obviously varies depending on the
weight.
Core Strength

One of the most common uses for a medicine ball is to build core

strength, meaning building muscles in your abdomen and back which helps
with balance, posture and overall wellness through proper alignment. This
can be done by holding the medicine ball close to your chest then thrusting it
toward a partner who will catch it and repeat the exercise and throw it back
to you. You can also throw the ball slightly to the side to help engage the
obloquies (abdominal muscles on the side of your core).

Strength Training
Medicine balls can be used in strength training to help build

muscle mass when performing certain exercises. For instance, you can hold a
medicine ball while doing squats or lunges to increase the intensity of the
exercise and thereby building more muscle strength. You can also hold the
medicine ball over your head and bend your arms at the elbow, slowly
lowering the medicine ball behind your head before returning to the start
position. This works your triceps (the back of your upper arms) as well as
shoulders and back.

Rehabilitation
After an injury or surgery, medicine balls are typically used in

rehabilitation of the muscle or muscle groups such as when you are

recovering from knee surgery. During physical therapy, you may be
instructed to lie on the floor face down. The therapist would then place a
medicine ball between your feet. You would then be instructed to grip the
ball between your feet and lift the ball while bending at the knee. This would
engage the muscles in your thighs and calves that cross over the knee joint
and build strength and fluidity in these muscles.

Stretching
o

When you are exercising with a medicine ball, the movements

you make are pushed farther by the weight and force of the ball, thereby
engaging your muscles to stop the movement of the added weight. This

engaging of muscles to stop a fluid movement increases your range of

motion and promotes flexibility in joints.

Considerations
o

As with any exercise routine, you should consult your doctor

before embarking on a new schedule. Additionally, be mindful of your form
and posture while performing any of these exercises. When you are doing
floor exercises on your back, make sure to keep your lower back flat on the
floor as to not strain it unnecessarily.

Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are great for those who want to exercise at home, or who like to
take their workouts along when they travel, but their value doesn't end there. There
are many benefits to these simple exercise tools, including versatility, convenience,
safety and effectiveness. The more you learn about the advantages of resistance band
exercises, the more you'll be motivated to add them to your own home gym.
2. These inexpensive exercise tools are a convenient option for people of any age or
fitness level. But don't let their simplicity fool you. Resistance band exercises are
surprisingly effective and offer many benefits over traditional free weights.

1) Get a cost-effective workout

Whether you buy them individually or as a set, resistance bands are an inexpensive
addition to your home gym equipment. Some resistance bands are even are sold
with a guided exercise DVD.

2) Adapt easily for multiple fitness levels

Resistance bands come in multiple resistance levels, usually light, medium or
heavy. You can further adjust the amount of resistance during exercise just by
giving more or less slack on the band, as well as by combining multiple resistance
bands to increase the challenge.

Modify familiar exercises

Resistance band exercises are often based on familiar strength-training moves. For
example, if you stand on one end of the cord and curl your arm up while holding
the other end, you've replaced your standard dumbbell bicep curl.

Exercise your whole body

Many resistance band kits come with suggested exercises for nearly every major
muscle group in your body. Stepping on one end of a resistance band or looping it
around a stationary object, for example, opens up many exercise possibilities.

Save on storage space

When you don't have a lot of room for a home gym, resistance bands are a great
option that store in very little space. You can hang them on a hook after you
exercise, or coil them up to store in a box or drawer.

6) Exercise on the road

Because they are so small and portable, resistance bands are a great way to take
your workout with you when you travel. There are many resistance band exercises
that can easily be done in the small space of a hotel room.

7) Add variety to your workouts

Over time, your muscles adapt to any new exercise routine. It's a good idea to mix
it up by cross-training with free weights, machines and resistance band exercises.
Each will work your muscles in a slightly different way.

8) Exercise safely, even when alone

Resistance bands offer strength-training without the risk of dropping a heavy
weight on your foot or crushing your fingers between weight plates. That makes
them ideal for working out when you don't have a personal trainer or exercise
partner to spot you.

9) Combine with other exercise equipment

While resistance bands work great on their own, they can also be combined with
other exercise equipment. Performing bicep curls with both a resistance band and
a dumbbell will give you the combined benefits of each type of equipment.

10) Get an effective workout

Although there are differences between free weight and resistance band exercises,
both are effective. Picture the arc motion your arm makes while doing a bicep
curl. Free weights will feel heaviest at the beginning of that arc, while resistance
bands make your muscles work harder at the end of the arc (when the band is
most taut). Either way, your body is moving against resistance, and that will give
your muscles an effective workout.

Pilates
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a form of exercise, developed by Joseph Pilates, which emphasizes the balanced development of the body
through core strength, flexibility, and awareness in order to support efficient, graceful movement. Pilates is one of the
most popular exercise systems in the country.
The Pilates method is a great physical benefit that works well for a wide range of people. Athletes and dancers love it,
as do seniors, women rebounding from pregnancy, and people who at various stages of physical rehabilitation. Core
strength is the foundation of Pilates exercise. The core muscles are the deep, internal muscles of the abdomen and
back. When the core muscles are strong, they work efficiently with the more superficial muscles of the trunk to
support the spine and movement.
As you develop your core strength you develop stability throughout your entire torso. This is one of the ways Pilates
helps people overcome back pain. As the trunk is properly stabilized, pressure on the back is relieved and the body is
able to move freely and efficiently.