What help may an athlete have between trials?
A · Advanced · Conduct, protests and kit · 5 of 5An athlete may talk to a coach who is outside the competition area, and may look at video of their earlier trials on a device held by someone outside it. Inside the area they may not have a phone, radio or similar device. Officials may not coach. Banned help brings a warning, and a second offence means disqualification from the event.
How it works
- The competition area: the fenced area where the event takes place, open only to the competing athletes and authorised officials.
- Coaches: "Communication between the athletes and their coaches not placed in the competition area" is allowed. A place in the stands close to each field event should be reserved for coaches.
- Video: athletes in field events may view "images of previous trial(s), recorded on their behalf by persons not placed in the competition area". The device may not be taken further into the competition area, though the athlete may hold it while talking to the person who made the recording.
- Devices: "Possession or use of video recorders, radios, CD, radio transmitters, mobile phone or similar devices in the competition area" is banned.
- Officials: may not give advice or support beyond their job. Coaching is the rule's first example.
- Medical help: treatment by the official medical staff is allowed, and so are bandages, tape, belts and supports worn for protection or for medical reasons.
- Clothing from officials: hats, gloves, shoes or clothing handed out at official stations or approved by the referee are allowed.
- Technology: apart from shoes that meet the shoe rules, any technology or appliance that gives an advantage the permitted equipment would not is banned.
- The penalty: a warning from the referee, and disqualification from the event if it happens again.
Tricky cases
Can an athlete walk over to the stand to talk to their coach between trials?
Yes, if they stay inside the competition area and the coach stays outside it. Leaving the area needs an official's permission.
Can an athlete watch their last throw on a coach's tablet?
Yes. Viewing images of earlier trials recorded by someone outside the competition area is allowed.
Can an athlete keep a phone in their bag beside the cage?
No. Possessing a mobile phone or similar device in the competition area is on the banned list.
Can a judge give a thrower advice on their technique?
No. Officials may not give advice or support beyond their job, and coaching is the rule's first example.
Why the rule exists
Field events have long gaps between trials, and coaching in those gaps has always been part of them. The rules allow it across the barrier and keep the competition area itself for athletes and officials. The commentary says the rule has been changed often "to respect the role of coaches" and to reduce conflict with officials.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| World Athletics rules | As above | TR 6 |
| Mechanical aids | Allowed only under separate regulations for athletes with an impairment | TR 6.3.4 |
| Wrist monitors | Heart rate and similar monitors may be worn if they cannot be used to communicate | TR 6.4.4 |
| Grip | A suitable substance on the hands is allowed | TR 32.5 |
From the rule book
World Athletics, Competition and Technical Rules, 2026 Edition, Technical Rules 6 and 25.19 with the commentary printed under rule 6. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Athletics Competition and Technical Rules 2026 (PDF).