Background:​ The phases of the football throw need definition so that muscle activation patterns during the overhead football throw can be fully described.

Hypothesis:​ Electromyographic analysis of shoulder musculature can better define muscle activation patterns during the football throw.

Study Design:​ Descriptive anatomic study.

Methods:​ Videos of 20 elite-level quarterbacks were reviewed to define phases of the overhead football throw;​ 14 recreational male athletes underwent electromyography and motion analysis testing.

Results:​ Four sequential phases of the football throw were consistently observed. Early cocking (49% ± 11% of throw) was initiated at rear foot plant and continued to maximal shoulder abduction and internal rotation. Late cocking (20% ± 6%) started at maximal shoulder abduction and internal rotation and ended with maximal shoulder external rotation. The acceleration phase (15% ± 4%) began with maximal shoulder external rotation and ended with ball release. Follow-through (16% ± 5%) was defined as the phase from ball release to maximal horizontal adduction (across the body).

Conclusion:​ The four phases demonstrated little variation in motion analysis and electromyographic activation between subjects and were associated with muscle activation patterns consistent with upper extremity movements.

Clinical Relevance:​ A clearer understanding of muscle activation patterns may help to explain patterns of muscle injury and improve rehabilitation protocols in football-throwing athletes.