Does a Rise Ball Really Rise?

How a Rise Ball Works

There has long been differing opinions between fastpitch softball players vs. die-hard students of physics and aerodynamics as to whether a properly thrown rise ball can overcome the gravitational force trying to pull it toward the ground, enough to really RISE.

by Gerald Warner, Softball Pitching Instructor

As we have mentioned in other articles on this website, the majority of young pitchers who have been told or “think” they can throw a rise ball do NOT:
• Release the ball with correct backspin (top-to-bottom as seen by the catcher)
• Impart fast enough spin speed (at least 23 to 25 revolutions per second)
• Pitch the ball fast enough (mid-50’s at a minimum)
…so MOST pitchers are not yet able to throw a truly effective rise ball.

More information of some of the correct techniques for throwing a rise ball can be found on this website at:
Rise Ball Secrets

Although most of us pitching instructors, pitchers, hitters, coaches, and parents feel that we have seen rise balls “hop” over the top of a bat, there is no scientific evidence to prove that a softball can be thrown with sufficient speed and backspin to make an upward arc in its trajectory. Many of us have flicked a table tennis ball to make it dramatically curve, drop, and even rise. However, it has been estimated that a 6.8 ounce softball would have to be thrown at over 90 mph with a spin speed in excess of 35 revolutions per second in order to give the ball even a minor upward arc. So…

A “RISE BALL”, EVEN WHEN THROWN CORRECTLY, DOES NOT RISE…
it simply falls slower than a similar speed fastball that doesn’t have backspin and therefore has a more level plane on its path to the plate.

However, because the ball doesn’t have the same gravitational drop as most batters expect, even major league baseball players have been unable to make contact with a well thrown rise ball from a female pitcher.

Does a Rise Ball Really Rise? – page 2

THE MAGNUS EFFECT - Although there are many factors that contribute to the success of any “breaking” pitch, the easiest for most of us to understand is that the spinning seams on the ball “dig into” the air, causing it to move up, down, or sideways more than a ball that is thrown without the same spin. The principle known as the Magnus Effect (or Magnus Force) lowers the air pressure on one side of a spinning softball, creating low pressure (essentially a slight vacuum), and causing the ball to either move in a specific direction or, in the case of a rise ball, remain in the air for a longer distance and therefore not dropping as much in the trip from the pitcher’s hand to the batter.

If you have questions or need more information
Call Pitching Instructor Gerald Warner in Denver at (720) 200-4575 or e-mail me at: gw@pitchsoftball.com
Source: http://www.pitchsoftball.com/Page11.html

Bicep Injuries Rise During Windmill Pitching Underscores

Softball pitching requires much effort and energy especially from the biceps. Each time a softball pitcher swings the ball around and then releases it at full velocity, the biceps are bombarded with lofty forces and torques which may cause strain and discomfort - Rush University Medical Center Chicago.

By Marc Dagenais

Softball pitching requires much effort and energy especially from the biceps. Each time a softball pitcher swings the ball around and then releases it at full velocity, the biceps are bombarded with lofty forces and torques which may cause strain and discomfort - Rush University Medical Center Chicago.

The windmill style of pitching in softball which required underhand throws, according to the medical doctor Verma, Nikki N. promoted more cases of anterior or front pain of the shoulders or biceps of female softball pitchers.

A study was made using seven female softball pitchers as test subjects were conducted. It utilized electromyography in order to evaluate and determine the muscle firing power of the biceps during the whole of the windmill pitch... The study resulted in a conclusion that was very much intriguing; according to the press release done, the force exerted by the muscle of the biceps area was very high compared to the overhand pitches done. Also, when the arm reached its full swing where it is almost entirely stretched to the back then rapidly shifts to a stance that is completely at right angles with the ground was when the total muscle contraction and force was seen and experienced.

Female softball pitchers who frequently performed windmill pitches during usually complained of pain and discomfort on the shoulder area. The Rush University with their advanced human motion technology and laboratory was able to pinpoint the exact location of the pain which was on the biceps of the players.

In softball pitching, it has then been concluded that the biceps incurred most of the impact due to an application of such great acceleration then stopping immediately as soon as the force has been transferred to the ball.

Marc Dagenais is a Softball Peak Performance Coach that helps softball players turn their athletic talent into extraordinary performances and help coaches get more out of their players, turn their struggling team around or get an edge over their opponents. Visit us to sign-up to get our FREE softball pitching tips!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Dagenais

FastpitchSoftballSupply.com
BattingCagesDirect.com
BattingCagesrUs.com
AdvancedSkillsTee.com
ZipnHit-Pro.com

Performance-Boosting Softball Pitching Tips

By Marc Dagenais

Softball pitchers have extremely important roles to play in the success of a softball team. Each throw of a softball may make or break a potential score and win. That is why various pitching tips are constantly being taught and given by softball coaches to their precious softball pitchers from time to time. Nonetheless, there are three essential and very relevant softball tips for pitching that need to be applied and given attention all the time during both training sessions and competitions... And these three elements are practice, balance, and opponent analysis.

The first basic and very wonderful pitching tips one could utilize is the virtue of practice. It may sound a little old school but it is indeed the key to achieve almost perfect softball pitches. Softball pitching is a skill that cannot be perfected overnight so it is best to keep on practicing in order to increase one's pitching skills and levels.

It is well known that balance is one of the fundamental pitching tips suggested by softball coaches and professional. This is because pitching involves the strength of the feet and arms and that would only be possible if the pitcher is in complete balance or equilibrium with her weight and with the ground from which she stands on. If balance is acquired then the throw would gain much force, power, and speed that would be very difficult to hit. And that is because of balance and equilibrium.

When it comes to softball pitching, it is best to start out with the basic and easiest softball pitching styles available to you. You can try the windmill pitching style due to its ease. Just remember to always start out slow and work your way up. Always do emphasize on quality and a little less on quality. Once you get the hang of a particular softball pitching style move on to another. Find what softball pitching style is best for you as that will most certainly help you deliver extremely hard to hit pitches that will earn you and your team more wins and championships.

Another softball pitching tip to boost your softball performance is to apply variation to your usual drills and pitching exercises. If you cannot look for other drills or practice exercises then work with what you have. Add some spice to the simple activity of throwing by let us say performing throws of different styles every three balls. Or perhaps target a specific point in the filed when practicing your pitching skills. There are countless ways of adding fun and exciting twists in the usual practice routine. Be creative and enjoy practicing and increasing your pitching skills every single time.

The third very effective softball pitching tips to consider is the analysis of one's opponent/s. It may sound quite devious and conniving but it is very important to do so as it provides the pitcher with clear information of which pitching style to use and how to use it. In short, learn how to adjust one's pitch according to the strengths and weakness of the opponent specifically the hitter. If this opponent analyzing softball pitching tips are done successfully, the pitcher will gain maximum control of the situation and gains a very high possibility of scoring and winning.

So why not give these simple yet totally effective softball pitching tips a try? They will definitely get you up and running for your ultimate softball performance in and out of the field.

Marc Dagenais is a Softball Peak Performance Coach that helps softball players turn their athletic talent into extraordinary performances and help coaches get more out of their players, turn their struggling team around or get an edge over their opponents. Visit us to sign-up to get our FREE softball pitching tips!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Dagenais

Softball Pitching - 5 Important Pitching Keys

By Marc Dagenais

One of best softball pitching secrets and techniques is the ability to put together the three pitching keys of the game which are: Preparation, Relaxation, Confidence, Muscle Control, and Style. There are five very simple keys point to effective softball pitching in both practice and tournaments.

The first softball pitching key is PREPARATION - To become a master pitcher, you will have to prepare a lot. And by preparing we mean constant practicing which includes dynamic warm-ups, 75-150 ball pitches a day, hitting locations, running rotations, game mechanics mastery (rules, guidelines, pitching techniques and styles etc.), and long tosses. Remember to practice with the normal pitching style first before going on to the more complicated pitching styles and techniques. Dynamic warm-ups are a must before any training or game.

The second softball pitching key is RELAXATION - It is vital to relax both the mind and body before doing any pitch. Relaxation helps control blood flow and body movements meaning that if one is relaxed and not in a stressed or tensed state, he or she is more likely to deliver very hard-to-hit pitches. A tip in getting into a relaxed state amidst competitions is to hum or sing a song (music therapy for sports) or perhaps just simple breathing exercises before making the pitch will work. The important thing is to find what calms you down.

The third softball pitching key is CONFIDENCE - Nothing beats a confident and positive softball pitcher. It is widely believed that if a softball hitter senses the confidence of a softball pitcher, the pitcher has already won half of the battle. So be confident with your self and what you can do. That will greatly increase your throwing power, pitching stance, and focus.

The fourth softball pitching key is MUSCLE CONTROL - Muscle control does not simply mean being all out powerful and pitching does not only mean throwing a ball. These two aspects are so important in softball that these two must completely amalgamate with each other every single time. Muscle control is a difficult skill to master when pitching because it involves the player's total body discipline and knowledge to learn and exhibit control of the various body parts and stances used in pitching such as the proper way to angle the arm, the right amount of force to put into each pitch for it to not be hit by the softball hitter, and the balance needed to deliver an extremely hard to hit softball pitch. One can help practice and master muscle control through stretching exercises, proper dynamic-warm ups before games and practices, and of course, proper cool-down exercises after games. One will most definitely increase his or her pitching skills with muscle control.

The fifth softball pitching key is STYLE - Softball pitching in itself is a very difficult skill and role to master and excel at. It involves a lot from the player such as the right mental attitude, adequate physical prowess, and skill. But, one must definitely find the right and best suitable softball pitching style if he or she wants to become significantly better at his game...

There are a lot of pitching styles and techniques being used today. Some of them are the two fingers, the scissors, and the three fingers. These styles are extremely varied and may take up a lot of time to master. But the good thing is it is only recommended to have around three pitching styles although some really great softball pitchers may have and use around six softball pitching styles. The point here is to find what softball pitching style suits you best to help you excel and perform a lot better.

Try to infuse your every game and practice with these 5 very important softball pitching tips and keys. They will increase your entire softball performance most especially in pitching.

Marc Dagneais is Softball Peak Performance Coach that helps softball players turn their athletic talent into extraordinary performances and help coaches get more out of their players, turn their struggling team around or get an edge over their opponents. Visit us to access our directory of FREE softball drills.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Dagenais

How to Avoid the Wrong Softball Pitching Clinics

www.SoftballrUs.com


By Monica Martinez

I have had the opportunity to attend many different softball pitching clinics through the years. As a pitcher myself and also as an instructor, I have seen average clinics and excellent clinics. Some of the down falls to pitching clinics are in the organizational process. If there is six hours set aside for pitching, and all six hours require a pitcher to pitch, this can obviously be a hazard to the arm of the pitcher. Not even a bag of ice at the end of the day will be able to save a pitcher's arm with that amount of pitching repetitions.

Another common error is the way softball pitching clinics don't take into account the catching situation. Quite often the number of pitchers out weighs the number of catchers in a clinic. It is also unreasonable to expect the catchers to spend their clinic experience catching for pitchers. However that can be effective at the end to put the knowledge the catchers have gained into action. So who catches for the pitchers? Probably the worst option is to have the pitchers catch for one another. That can turn dangerous quickly due to the pitcher's inexperience in catching. The positive side of using this format is it's the most efficient means of pitching.

Another alternative is to have nets set up to catch the pitches. This requires a large quantity of those nets and each pitcher to have multiple balls next to them to use. Now the pitchers have a target to throw to. Once they have pitched all of their balls, they can go and retrieve them from the net or fence.

Some of the better softball pitching clinics I have been a part of have variation in their time allotted. For example, an extensive warm up is important for safety reasons. As a concept is presented, drills breaking down that concept allow for better understanding. This can also put less pressure on the pitcher's arm. Frequent water breaks must be in the plan for proper hydration as well as a snack being provided.

I have been involved in a softball pitching clinic where the campers have been able to take home quality information to help them to continue to improve. Such as a side by side video of the campers pitching form compared to a professional pitcher's form. The campers were also given a personalized booklet with skills and drills for the pitcher to look back on.

Remember, softball pitching clinics can help improve any pitcher, but the rest of the time, they are their own pitching coach.

Tired of looking for a softball clinic and only finding ones taught by mediocre coaches? Want to attend softball pitching clinics taught by Cat Osterman and other Olympic athletes? Go to RockyMountainSoftballClinic.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Monica_Martinez

Dos and Don'ts of Softball Pitching

Like any other sports in our country, softball has been consistently being played by all ages, boys or girls. Since the introduction of this game by George Hancock, it already progresses to becoming one of the most-loved sports.

If you are interested in playing softball, you should carefully study the rudiments of it. You should know the basics and the rules on how to play. When it comes to skills, you should be able to bat, field, catch, run and pitch. Those are the common skills needed for you to excel well in this sport.

Discussing each skill would require a lengthy article, which is why softball pitching is the concentration of this article. In layman's term pitching is synonymous to throwing. But throwing doesn't is as easy as throwing a stone. One should master the art of pitching so that you may provide the game with extra excitement and elicit more applause from the crowd.

Getting started is quite easy, just be sure that you know how put your hands and feet in their proper places. Just remember that when you are already in the field, the following tips could help you carry out your tasks successfully:

1. Make sure that your pitching arm pass overhead (just like the 12 o'clock position) while your weight is on the drive leg.
2. Swing you arms up as your body moves along with it.
3. Land with your stride leg pointed at about 30 to 45 degrees to maintain your balance.
4. Release the ball once it is beside your hip.
5. Push your drive leg off the pitching rubber to give you more power.

Once you have tried doing those things, you will end up successfully in pitching the ball to the batter. But, there are also some nonsense actions that you should avoid while pitching.

1. Do not let your balance arm swing off to the side because this will diminish your pitching power as you throw the ball. As you bring your arms up, your pitching arm should make a 360-degree rotation while your balance arm will go up for 90 degrees.
2. As you raise up your hand, just stand straight. Do not lean over for this will cause you to let the ball go late.
3. If you do not want to have any ankle, knee or hip injury, do not land on the side ways of your stride leg.
4. The ball should be released behind the shoulders. Do not release the ball in front of your body for you can't pitch it to your maximum power.

Softball pitching is one of those vital skills in winning the game because you will be the pitching the ball which starts the game. In your hands lie the winning or the losing of your team.
Marc Dagenais, MHK, CSCS, is a softball peak performance coach that helps players and teams hit with more power, run faster, throw harder, become mentally tougher, and be more dominant on the softball field. To get tons of great FREE softball pitching tips to boost your game, visit us at: http://www.softballperformance.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/baseball-articles/dos-and-donts-of-softball-pitching-938409.html

Drills and Activities to Improve Softball Pitching

www.FastpitchSoftballSupply.com

By Marc Dagenais

Softball pitching is one of the offensive armaments in the softball. Most coaches and trainers pay much concentration in the pitching capability of the players because they believe that this added an artillery and fire power to the game. Poor pitching techniques oftentimes results to a bad performance of the team. Worse, it might lead to losing the game. That is why there is a more complexity in the field of softball pitching drills and activities. Softball players should be equipped with the dos and don'ts of the softball pitching process.

Read on and perfect these valuable drills and activities which will help you get an edge over hitter and batting lineup you face:

The pitching all happens with the release. When this is happening just: · Stay Tall · Pull your shoulders back · Have a firm front side · No bending at the waist

For lower body pitching mechanics: · Make a powerful push from the pitching rubber · Build up a strong, fast and long stride · Make a push-back against the stride leg as the pitching arm comes down through the release point

To maximize your pitching speed, you must: · Make sure that your upper body is upright when at the release · You push back against your stride leg · Your shoulders should most of the time way closed · Your hips should be halfway or less closed at the release

The power, the speed and the landing of the stride determines how effectively the pitcher can push back against the stride in order to throw the ball with a maximum speed.

The fastest pitch depends on the lower portion of a pitcher's body. Remember to always improve the speed and control of the leaping styles. The leaping style must have a fast and strong push-off from the pitching rubber in order to drive the stride leg out fast and far.

Always look at the power and the quickness of the stride to allow for a blocking or a hard push against the stride leg at the end of the pitch sequence. Ideally, your pitching strides must be precise and sure so that a powerful pitching technique will be achieved.

Softball pitching requires technique, speed and proper pitching location. The edge to softball pitching lies upon the perfection of the most comfortable techniques you already have or at least bend your softball life on learning more of the existing pitching techniques.

Marc Dagenais, MHK, CSCS, is a softball peak performance coach that helps players and teams hit with more power, run faster, throw harder, become mentally tougher, and be more dominant on the softball field. Visit us and sign-up to get tons of great FREE Softball Pitching tips to boost your game!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Dagenais

The Secrets of a Better Softball Pitching

All coaches and players want to win. Of course winning is the aim of everyone. You feel overjoyed when you win in the most important game of your life. Sometimes you feel awfully unlucky, but still the good feeling is there. But the sad thing is you also get to lose in some games. Well, there are always two sides of the story, the good and the bad... winning and losing. Even though you thought that you already did your very best, if winning is not really meant for you, then you will end up losing. No one feels good in losing but you should accept the fact that in every game there is a winner and there will always be a loser. Keep in mind that every time your team lost a game, there is a lesson behind it that every member of your team must learn.


There are many reasons of losing. Maybe the opposing pitcher was very good. Your fielding might not have been all good, and you might have made mental mistakes. Whatever is the reason of your losing, you should not forget that there will be better chances to win your game. All you have to do is to practice more, have this great determination, and be patient as long as you become expert in every softball drill.


One basic softball drill that a softball player must master is the softball pitching. Softball pitching is very important because the pitcher is the one who throws the ball passed the batter to the catcher. The triumph of every team sometimes depends on how good their pitcher is. You can be a better pitcher if you have the knowledge on the smart tips in softball pitching and the urge to become a better pitcher.


Have you ever wondered how a jet or a plane could defy gravity? Have you crossed your mind that there some factors why jets and planes fly? Well the forces that keep the plane airborne are the same forces that keep the ball in flight.


Trust

When you exert effort on any small objects, it moves. Softball pitching trust should be a force in order for the ball to move in a longer distance. Pitching force is wrist snap, arm whip and trunk rotation.


Lift

In your physics class, your teacher taught you the principle; the faster a fluid moves past an object the less sideways pressure is exerted on the body by the fluid. In softball pitching, the fluid is the air and the body is the ball. With the ball, the raised seams and their motion create lift. "More rotation - More Lift."


Weight

Gravity always acts downward towards the center of the earth. When pitching, the quick forward rotation of the ball (drop) will cause the ball to come down.


Generally speaking, to become good in softball pitching, you should be trained properly for strength, agility and endurance. These skills are the keys in order for your team to win.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com

About The Author:

Marc Dagenais, MHK, CSCS, is a softball peak performance coach that helps players and teams hit with more power, run faster, throw harder, become mentally tougher, and be more dominant on the softball field. Visit us and sign-up to get tons of great FREE softball pitching tips to boost your game!

6 Softball Tips to Become a Better Pitcher

By Marc Dagenais

Softball pitching tips are used to help pitchers learn a few good habits that can help them turn things around when their having trouble throwing their good stuff. This article has six good softball tips to help you be on your A game more consistently and therefore become a better pitcher as a result.

Tip 1 - Throwing a Fastball

Don't short-arm the ball. The longer the lever, the greater the potential for producing force, just as a rock swinging on the end of a long string moves faster than one swinging on a short string. Keep your arm straight throughout the arm swing with a slightly flexed and relaxed elbow.

Tip 2 - Throwing a Fastball

Don't hurry to assume a fielding position. Turning too early pulls your shoulders off line. You must keep your hips open until your release the ball and it is well on it's way.

Tip 3 - Throwing a Rise

Look at your right shoulder to see if it is too high when you release.

Tip 4 - Throwing a Drop

Throwing the ball at about 90 percent of maximum speed allows the ball to drop more.

Tip 5 - Throwing a Change

Pitchers who are great at throwing the change-up don't throw the change near the strike zone where it can be hit. They get the strike by fooling the batter and getting her to swing at the motion, not the pitch. The ball may bounce in front of the plate, but the batter has already started to swing.

Tip 6 - Throwing a Curve

Pay attention that you don't lean to much to the side your glove is on. Otherwise you may lose control and throw a drop ball instead. Allow your wrist and shoulders to create a spin. Also remember that while pitching a curve ball in fast pitch your palm should be facing the sky when you release.

Marc Dagenais is a softball peak performance coach that provides softball tips, softball drills, and information on techniques for hitting, pitching, coaching, and training through his blog at http://www.softballperformance.com/blog.

He also helps softball players and coaches improves their game by sharing with them the tips and strategies used by the world's best softball players and coaches to achieve extraordinary performances. You can sign-up to get his FREE Softball Tips at http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-tips.html. Go Sign-up Now!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Dagenais

Dominate the Diamond with these Softball Pitching power tips

By Marc Dagenais

How are you going to dominate the diamond? One of the best cardiovascular exercises to build up the pitching power is the very popular softball game. It is a team sport popularized in the United States and is considered as a high recreational league of sport. Since softball is a sport that can be a natural mood lifter and a great way to relieve stress and fight depression, it is played by almost everyone in all ages.

Pitching a ball involves eagerness and a certain amount of decision-making and anticipation on the part of the pitcher and the catcher as well. In order to get the best pitching skill, particularly the catching and throwing of the ball, you need to be able to be a big element of the softball existence. Playing sports predominantly in softball can help you deal with the progress. Plus, when you are on a team, you have friends who support you both on and off the field. You'll never have to be worried over and over again when someone throws a ball at you.

When you want to perform vigorously and safely in softball, you should be reminded of the following softball pitching tips. They are sure to keep the balls rolling.

Now, are you ready to boost your game with these performance ideas? Please read below:

- Relentlessly try to make your pitching arm pass over the head, as in the 12 o'clock position, while your weight is on the drive leg. Then, constantly try to swing the arms up with the body. Land with your stride leg pointed between 30 and 45 degrees. Try to release the ball at the hip. Push your drive leg off the pitching rubber.

- For fast pitcher to improve or adjust on their drop, rise, and curve and changeup, take these surefire tips with you: Take a shorter stride to release your point. Keep your pitching arm close to your body to avoid injury. When releasing the ball, lean a bit forward so that your head and shoulder are over your foot. In dropping the ball, decrease your speed to 90 percent of your maximum speed.

- In pitching a fast pitch rise and to increase the rise in your fast pitch, try spreading your fingers more and squeezing the ball out of your fingers as you release. Doing this will give your pitch more spin. Don't try to force the ball to rise; it is the spin that should control this. Shorten your stride and monitor where you are releasing the ball. Always make sure that you are not holding the ball for too long.

So, the tips are given. Following these softball tips can definitely help you move on the right track towards achieving the great softball play. These powerful and swift steps to prevent underperformance in softball should be taken sincerely. Who knows, these might be the start of your continuous expedition to a more dynamic play in the softball diamond.


Marc Dagenais, MHK, CSCS, is a softball peak performance coach that helps players and teams hit with more power, run faster, throw harder, become mentally tougher, and be more dominant on the softball field. Visit us and sign-up to get tons of great FREE softball pitching tips to boost your game!

http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/dominate-the-diamond-with-these-softball-pitching-power-tips-938561.html

A Fast Pitch Pitching Drill

FastpitchSoftballSupply.com
"There's Nothing Slow About Us!"



By J Cox

An Important Pitching Drill: One Knee Pitching

The pitcher on the softball field is the most important player. No other player has the power to influence the game the way the pitcher does. In order for the pitcher to be effective, there are many little things she must do well. To help her perfect all these little things, there are many different pitching drills she should perform regularly. One of the most important pitching drills is the "One Knee Pitching" drill.

One knee pitching is performed exactly how you would think it would be done, with the pitcher on one knee. The pitcher will actually kneel on the knee that is on the same side as her pitching arm. She will be about 15 to 20 feet away from the catcher. There should be a line on the ground that extends from the pitcher toward the catcher. The pitchers other foot (on the glove side) should be placed on that line. That leg should be slightly bent. By being on one knee the pitcher will have a steady lower part of the body and will be able to focus on her upper body and the mechanics for pitching.

To begin the softball pitching drill, the pitcher should have her glove and pitching hand (holding the ball) down beside the leg she is kneeling on (her pitching leg). Both of the pitchers hands should stay together as she completes the first quarter of her arm circle. Then she should continue with her motion making sure to come through and stay with the straight line. That's the point of the drill; staying within the line. Throwing balls and strikes isn't important.

During this pitching drill the pitcher must be sure to keep her balance at all times. She can't allow her back to arch backward or her shoulders to fall forward. Also, she can't let her arm go behind her head as she is pitching. Finally, she has to make sure her arm finishes in line with the line that's extending toward the catcher. This point can't be stressed enough.

There are many great pitching drills that softball pitchers should do on a regular basis. One of the most important drills is "One Knee Pitching". This drill should be performed regularly in order to help the pitchers balance and to allow her to focus on her upper body. To be more specific, this pitching drill will help the pitcher with her arm circle, spacing, sequencing, release posture, and the follow through.

J Cox runs http://www.fastpitchsoftballbat.net The site tries to find bargains for the fastpitch fan. The site also has several other Fastpitch Softball Articles, an example is located at http://www.fastpitchsoftballbat.net/fastpitchbaserunning

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=J_Cox

Smart Tips on How to Increase Speed in Softball Pitching

By Marc Dagenais

Pitchers are probably the most important part in a softball team. Most of the time, the victory of the team depends upon how the pitcher has performed on the game. Pitchers win the championship and as a pitcher you must possess the necessary basic skills and the knowledge on how to go about your business on the mound. Having the knowledge and the skill and how you apply that on the game are the keys in order for one to be called a great pitcher.

Pitchers are always encouraged to finish their pitching rotation by bringing their shoulders back and having their body upright. But the speed and control in softball pitching is greatly improved by the lower body of the pitcher's body.

When you are a pitcher who uses the leaping style, the whole sequence of lower body pitching mechanics is based on powerful push-up off from the pitching rubber; a strong, fast, and long stride; and a push-back against the stride leg as the pitching arm comes down through the release point.

There are some do's and don'ts in softball pitching that every pitcher must remember in order to become a better and effective pitcher. Try to keep these in mind for they might be helpful.

Do's


Always try to make your pitching arm pass over the head (12 o'clock position) while your weight is on the drive leg.
Always try to swing arms up with the body.
Always land with your stride leg pointed between 30 and 45 degrees.
Always try to release the ball at the hip.

Don'ts


As you bring your arms up for the pitching motion, your pitching arm will make a 360 degree circle while your balance arm will go up about 90 degrees and comes back down. Do not let your balance arm swing off to the side; it will diminish the power of the hip snap.
Do not lean over as you bring your arms up because your natural 360 degrees arm circle will begin out front and cause you to let go late.
Do not land sideways in your stride leg to avoid the occurrence of knee, hip and ankle problems.
Do not release the ball out in front of the body. It should be released behind the shoulders.

Now that you already have a knowledge on how to become an effective pitcher, it is now your turn to implement it to your softball drills and trainings. Learning without implementing is useless. You must learn it well, put it your heart and apply it. This way, you will be serious in improving your softball pitching skills. With your patience and persistence, you are sure that you are on your way to that success that you have always dreaming of. Through effort and hard work I am sure that time will come that you will be one of the best pitchers in the name of softball. Just believe in yourself. But as of now, enjoy the journey. Enjoy learning and have fun in every game.

Marc Dagneais is Softball Peak Performance Coach that helps softball players turn their athletic talent into extraordinary performances and help coaches get more out of their players, turn their struggling team around or get an edge over their opponents. Visit us to access our directory of FREE softball drills!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Dagenais

Recommended Websites for Softball Coaches
The Softball 2Day Coaching Journal
The Fastpitch Softball Directory
BatAction Hitting Machines
Derek Jeter Hurricane Machines
Joe Mauer Quick Swing Trainer
Advanced Skills Tee
BattingCagesDirect.com
HomeBattingCages.com
BattingCagesrUs.com
BattingCageBuilder.com
Hands Back Hitter Swing Trainer
Stay Back Tee Baseball Swing Trainer

Softball Hitting, Softball Pitching - How to Do It!

By Marc Dagenais

In 1887, George Hancock and his baseball players were resting because of the winter outside. To keep them in shape, Mr. Hancock thinks of a way on how are they practice baseball. There, the first softball was played and was initially named as "indoor baseball." Decade passed, more terms were tagged to this game but it gained popularity among the people in our country. Today, everybody loves softball. This is the game that always unites people, be it with the boys or girls, whites or blacks.

Just like any other sports, softball has many skills to learn for you to be able to play it well. It is a must that one should really know some of those facts. Like batting, fielding, catching, running and pitching. These are some of the basics that anyone who is interested in playing softball, they should try first to master each skill.

Pitching will be the concentration of this article because this is the one that starts the ball flying. In layman's term, pitching also means throwing. But throwing the softball is not just mere skill in this game. One should master the art of pitching so that you may provide the game with more excitement and fun.

Learning how to do it is quite easy; you just have to follow the tips below. Put in mind that once you are already playing the game; always remember the following so that you would be able to pitch the ball correctly.

1. Make sure that your pitching arm pass overhead (just like the 12 o'clock position) while your weight is on the drive leg.
2. Swing you arms up as your body moves along with it.
3. Land with your stride leg pointed at about 30 to 45 degrees to maintain your balance.
4. Release the ball once it is beside your hip.
5. Push your drive leg off the pitching rubber to give you more power.

Once you have tried doing those things, you will end up successfully in pitching the ball to the batter. But, there are also some nonsense actions that you should avoid while pitching.

1. Do not let your balance arm swing off to the side because this will diminish your pitching power as you throw the ball. As you bring your arms up, your pitching arm should make a 360-degree rotation while your balance arm will go up for 90 degrees.

2. As you raise up your hand, just stand straight. Do not lean over for this will cause you to let the ball go late.

3. If you do not want to have any ankle, knee or hip injury, do not land on the side ways of your stride leg.

4. The ball should be released behind the shoulders. Do not release the ball in front of your body foe you can't pitch it to your maximum power.

Pitching could be as easy as that, but it plays an important role in playing the softball. Its crucial role would determine if you will win the game or not!

Marc Dagenais, MHK, CSCS, is a softball peak performance coach that helps players and teams hit with more power, run faster, throw harder, become mentally tougher, and be more dominant on the softball field. To get tons of great FREE softball pitching tips to boost your game, visit us at: http://www.softballperformance.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Dagenais



Recommended Websites for Softball Coaches
The Softball 2Day Coaching Journal
The Fastpitch Softball Directory
BatAction Hitting Machines
Derek Jeter Hurricane Machines
Joe Mauer Quick Swing Trainer
Advanced Skills Tee
BattingCagesDirect.com
HomeBattingCages.com
BattingCagesrUs.com
BattingCageBuilder.com
Hands Back Hitter Swing Trainer
Stay Back Tee Baseball Swing Trainer

Essentials to Softball Pitching

By Marc Dagenais

So, are you into softball? Then you know pretty well that like some other aspects of the play, proper softball pitching is very essential. It will determine whether you have the winning chance or not. I assure you that you have made the right click. Giving attention to the following reminders help you understand better some essential factors to good pitching.

As a pitcher, see to it that you maintain accuracy in pitching. The secret lies not in how you actually throw the ball but how you prepare to do it. Preparation holds the key to great pitching. As part of preparation take note on how you control your body. Doing this greatly enhances your pitching performance.

In the matter of body weight distribution, see how you position your feet while you prepare to throw the ball and during the release of the ball. Are your feet wide enough more than what is necessary? This affects your movement. If they're too close with each other, that kind of position will not serve you better either. During the practice session determine the right position of your feet that allows good body distribution for effective pitching. This is very important because during the actual play, the pitcher is only aware of the way he releases the ball. Balanced body position means better pitching. Achieve that good pitching stance during the preparation stage.

Don't ignore the correct ball grip. Hold the ball with your fingers, not covered by your palm. Three to four fingers hold the ball. The amount grip pressure makes a difference also. Hold it firmly but not tightly. If you're still young, three fingers won't do the job well for you. Use your four fingers with the right distance from one another. Holding the ball correctly ensures good release. So practice the right grip. It's for your advantage if you discover also what works best for you.

Another essential to better softball pitching is by adapting the ball rise according to the ball hitter. This means if the hitter is small, throw the ball reasonably higher. For tall hitters, don't give them the chance of powerful hit by releasing the ball lower. Try this and your teammates will like you even better.

Don't forget the need for perseverance. If you didn't make it after some practice, don't lose hope. That will urge you even more to give your best the next time. Strive to be a good pitcher by doing the essentials to softball pitching. With constant application of these you will eventually have the taste of sweet victory because you worked for it. There's no short cut to winning, all you need is a working knowledge about the game, application of this knowledge, and of course, dedication and commitment. Softball pitching need not be complicated; just cooperate with the coach. He knows better than you do. So learn from him. He's there to help you win the game. Your coach is the best person to decide what works best for every player no matter what your part of the game is. Give him chance to perform his job.

Marc Dagneais is Softball Peak Performance Coach that helps softball players turn their athletic talent into extraordinary performances and help coaches get more out of their players, turn their struggling team around or get an edge over their opponents. Visit us to access our directory of FREE softball drills!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Dagenais




###############
FastpitchSoftballSupply.com
BattingCagesDirect.com
BattingCagesrUs.com
AdvancedSkillsTee.com
ZipnHit-Pro.com
###############

Fastpitch Softball Pitching - 5 Pitching Tips to Make You Successful

FastpitchSoftballSupply.com
By Marc Dagenais

As a softball pitcher you should know that your position on the team is probably the most important. When team fill out their roster, the first thing they look for is great pitching. Pitchers then should know that they need to be good students of the game and be aware of what is needed from them in the different situations that can take place during a game. Pitchers usually are the difference maker in a game and so if they don't have their A game, then chances are their team won't be victorious. The following softball pitching tips are good pointers for the position and give pitchers a good heads up on how they should approach their craft.

Tip 1 - Throwing a fastball. Use two points to keep your arm properly aligned. Your biceps brush your ear at the top of the backswing, and your pitching hand brushes your hip at release.

Tip 2 - Throwing a curve-ball. Pitchers should know that in order to maximize the curve, you should visualize a series of dots from the mound to the outside corner of the plate. Pitch along those dots.

Tip 3 - Throwing a fastpitch rise. It's possible that your wrist snap may be sideways. Play with different grips or finger pressures and try to relax them.

Tip 4 - Throwing a change-up. Don't always throw the change-up in a given situation. Make sure to change your pitch selection.

Tip 5 - Throwing a drop-ball. Keep your pitching arm close to your body to avoid injury.

Marc Dagenais is a softball peak performance coach that provides softball tips, softball drills, and information on techniques for hitting, pitching, coaching, and training through his blog at http://www.softballperformance.com/blog

He also helps softball players and coaches improves their game by sharing with them the tips and strategies used by the world's best softball players and coaches to achieve extraordinary performances. You can sign-up to get his FREE Softball Tips at http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-tips.html Go Sign-up Now!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Dagenais



###############
FastpitchSoftballSupply.com
BattingCagesDirect.com
BattingCagesrUs.com
AdvancedSkillsTee.com
ZipnHit-Pro.com
###############

Fastpitch Softball Pitching Drills

By Marc Dagenais

Softball pitchers should really take the time to improve their game by going over fastpitch softball pitching drills that work on different areas of the all important position and will help them become an all-star player. The following softball pitching drills are a great start for pitchers to reach an elite level and become very solid at their position.

Drill 1 - Wall Pitching (Softball Pitching)

Purpose: To develop speed without worrying about accuracy.

Procedure: The pitcher stands 10 to 15 feet from a wall and throws hard, focusing on mechanics and the feeling of throwing the ball hard. The repeated impact will soften a ball before long, so the pitcher should use the same ball. Don't use a rubber ball that lacks seams because the pitcher must be able to grip the ball properly. An advantage of this kind of practice is that pitchers can do it on their own at any time.

Drill 2 - Speed Pitching

Purpose: To develop speed while throwing to a catcher.

Procedure: The pitcher works with a catcher, concentrating on exploding off the mound and attempting to throw each pitch a little harder.

Drill 3 - Basket Throws

Purpose: To focus on making the ball drop by using a visual target.

Procedure: The pitcher throws from regular distance and attempts to pitch the ball into a laundry basket at home plate. This drill helps imprint the image the pitcher should see before every drop pitch. The pitch can be thrown to a bucket, but the ball will not ricochet as much off the softer basket.

Drill 4 - Long Toss

Purpose: To practice getting under the ball for rise-ball release. The drill also develops body and arm strength.

Procedure: The pitcher pitches to a catcher from second base or farther, lobbing the ball up as if she is throwing it over a telephone pole. This action forces the pitcher to get under the ball. To develop strength, the pitcher keeps backing up (from second base, to center field, to the fence) to see how far she can throw it.

Drill 5 - Play a Game

Purpose: To experience gamelike pressure during pitching practice.

Procedure: The pitcher pitches a specific number of innings with the catcher calling balls and strikes. If you have a batter standing at the plate, she should assume different positions in the box and stand in as both a left-handed batter and a right-handed batter.

Marc Dagenais is a softball peak performance coach that provides softball tips, softball drills, and information on techniques for hitting, pitching, coaching, and training through his blog at http://www.softballperformance.com/blog

He also helps softball players and coaches improves their game by sharing with them the tips and strategies used by the world's best softball players and coaches to achieve extraordinary performances. You can sign-up to get his FREE Softball Tips at http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-tips.html - Go Sign-up Now!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Dagenais

FastPitchSoftballSupply.com - Online Fastpitch Softball Super Store.