How to Throw or Catch a Boomerang
Most people are introduced to the boomerang as children, whether they've watched an expert's demonstration, part of a television show or movie or even a cartoon. Many have come away enamored with the idea of expertly throwing and catching this ancient, wooden weapon which, today, is used more for sport. You can learn how to throw one with a little practice and perseverance.
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Instructions
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Throw a Boomerang
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Find an open area, preferably clear of trees. Give yourself at least 60 to 100 yards of free space in all directions in which to throw. Make sure the area is free of traffic - both pedestrian and automotive. You don't want to inadvertently hit anyone or anything during your practice session.
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2
Face the wind before throwing and turn at about a 60 degree angle (so if you're facing the wind, shift to your right until you are a little farther than half way to perpendicular to the wind). Throwing in this direction - into the wind and at about this angle - is necessary for the boomerang to return to you. Adjust your body angle into the wind depending on how close the boomerang returns after your first throw. Also adjust the angle of boomerang -- straight up in your hand or slightly angled in your hand -- based on the wind. The more wind blowing, the more vertical you should hold the boomerang.
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3
Pinch the boomerang between your thumb and forefinger. You should be face to face with the curved side of the boomerang. The flat side of the boomerang should be pointed away from you.
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4
Throw the boomerang overhand, as though you're pitching a baseball. Do not throw a boomerang with a side arm motion. Side arm throws usually arc upward and come back down quickly and dangerously.
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Snap your wrist at the end of the throw to create spin. Spin is essential for success and helps create the necessary air flow to pull the boomerang in an arc.
Catching the Boomerang
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Watch the boomerang's flight path after you throw it. Boomerangs can become "invisible," or lost in the light, as they arc back to the thrower. If you lose sight of the boomerang, assume you are going to get hit and cover your head and face.
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Trap the boomerang between your hands, after it drops below shoulder level. Catching the boomerang below shoulder level is the safest catch, as a missed catch is more likely to strike your arms or chest and not your head or face.
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Catch the boomerang with one hand if it is above your head. Trying to catch the boomerang with one hand at face level could result in injury if you miss the catch. Aim for the middle of the boomerang between the two tails or airfoils.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure your boomerang is flat. Bent boomerangs do not fly as well.
Experiment by throwing at different angles and with slower and faster speeds to see how your boomerang performs.
Wear protective gear for your head and eyes.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Pixland/Getty Images
