The Spartan Race spear throw is known as “the burpee maker” for a reason. It’s is one the quickest and (when done correctly) the easiest obstacle you will face all will face all day. From the start some people will pick this up naturally and with a couple of tosses during an open heat they have it down. For others like me, it took practice and figuring out my throw to get this right.
When it comes to training for the spartan spear throw, the best and only way to train is with practice. But who has an extra spear just laying around? Now for the good news, the spartan spear is not only easy to make but fun to throw. My friends (non-racers) love throwing the spear at a target or just as a javelin for distance, there is something very primal about it.
How to Make a DIY Spartan Race Spear
Making your very own DIY spartan spear to practice with is incredibly easy and you can buy everything you are going to need at HomeDepot or most hardware stores.
What you are going to need:
- 60″ Rake handle with metal cut off on the end
- 12-inch galvanized spike or nail
- Roll of Duct Tape
- Hacksaw with heavy duty blade
- Table Clamp
Step 1: Cutting the Flat Head Off the Nail
First we are going to cut the flat head off of the nail. To do this you are going to the nail in the table clamp with just enough room to cut the flat head off of the nail. Make sure the nail is tightly in the clamp and it is always recommended to wear safety goggles or sunglasses.
Step 2: Securing the Nail to the Rake
To secure the nail into the rake we are simply going to wrap duct tape around the the non-pointy end of the nail (the end you just cut off) until it fits securely in the rake’s pre-drilled whole. First place the nail (pointy end out) and place it on the opening of the rake. This will give you an idea of how many layers of tape you’re going to need to wrap around the nail to secure it in the pole. Then rap layers of duct tape around the end of the nail you have just cut (not the pointy end) and test it in the opening of the rake until it fits snugly.
Step 3: Throw Your New Spear!
It’s as easy as that and fun way to save yourself burpees at your next Spartan Race!
Tips for Practicing the Spartan Spear Throw
A couple quick tips for practicing your spear throw:
- The target is between 20-30 feet away depending on the race, and the bail starts about 3 feet off of the ground. Take this into account when setting your target for practicing.
- Try to aim high. Most people under throw the target and the spear will almost always start to arc down after 20ft.
- Don’t throw across your body. Throw it like a giant dart with your finger pointing at the target after you release the spear.
