What is the minimum weight of the men's javelin?

The minimum weight of the men’s javelin in international competition is 800 grams. World Athletics specifies the implement’s minimum mass along with its length, shape, grip and centre of gravity so performances can be compared fairly.

A senior men’s javelin is generally between 2.6 and 2.7 metres long, while the women’s javelin has a minimum weight of 600 grams and is shorter. These specifications are easy to confuse because youth and masters competitions may use different implements. The 800-gram figure applies to the standard senior men’s event.

Unlike the discus, hammer and shot put, javelin technique is tightly regulated. The athlete must hold the implement by its cord grip and throw it overhand from behind the end of the runway. The javelin must land point-first for a valid mark under modern rules. The event grew from ancient spear traditions and has been part of the modern Olympic athletics programme since 1908.