Backswing in the petanque throw continued. No idea where this font came from!

As we mentioned yesterday the petanque boule can be controlled by holding it longer, that does not mean jiggling it up and down in your hand or doing some strange doggy paddle motion before you throw. It is all about the back swing. Some players like to bring their arm forward before the backswing to line up the shot, feel free but it is the route your arm takes from it’s furthest point of the backswing that assists the throw. The further you bring your arm back the longer you will have influence over the boule and the straighter it will go. The height and release will usually be the same as you usually throw but by bringing your arm back further than you would normally would, it will bring benefits. During the cold months it is important to warm up and keep warm when playing so the extra backswing does not pull those muscles but you may find it easier than you think. The main benefit will be your boule will go straighter but you will also find it goes further with the same effort. This can put people off the backswing, especially on fast terrains as the boule rocket down the piste. It is a technique that needs to be mastered. It is not a fix all solution but a step to better play. Remember the backswing is mainly about control rather than power to give a smooth delivery system, yes, that’s you!