Learning the Basics of Softball Pitching

By Marc Dagenais

Softball pitching is one of toughest job any player could face. It is a skill that requires you to be critical in thinking while keeping yourself in track inside the diamond. Remember, a good hitter won't able to beat a good pitcher. That is why learning the ropes of proper pitching the ball needs proper training.

Pitching in slow-pitch softball requires a different pitching style in a fast-pitch softball. It is a must that one should differentiate which type of softball you are going to join so that you would know which among the two below will best suit your needs.

A fast-pitch softball requires your athleticism, stamina, dedication and calculated thinking. Even if you fail among those characteristics, just follow the simple tips and it will bring you success. This is for the fast-pitch softball player:

If you are right-handed person, hold the ball by using all your fingers, except for the thumb, on a straight seam while your thumb will clutch on the straight seam of the ball at the opposite side. Make sure that you should leave spaces between your palm and the ball. Place your feet properly on the pitching mound and your hips should be square to the home plate. Put your weight on the left foot while you are positioning your hands to ready for the pitch. Extend your right arm past your hips and bring your left arm to your chest, while putting your weight in your right foot. Simultaneously with your feet movements, keep your arms straight. The left -gloved hand should be eyelevel and the ball hand should continue its circling up until it is extended towards the sky. With your "open" hips facing the home plate, release the ball while your gloved-hand reaches your side. Do not "close" your hips until the ball was released. End your pitch by bending your knees and your gloved-hand is ready to field just in case the ball is hit. Reverse the place of your hand if you are left-handed.

The slow-pitch softball is almost the same with the fast-pitch softball, except for some minor changes. Use a circle grip in holding the ball, by placing your hands around it. Begin your pitching motion by putting the right hand inside the glove or just in front of you. Position your feet in a way that you would be able to maintain your balance and provide enough power in pitching the ball. Step forward and move your ball hand like a swinging pendulum. Let go of the ball when it is in your waist level. Get into the fielding stance because the ball may be hit right back at you.

The key to being a good pitcher is by a constant practice. Practice makes perfect! Maintain your focus on the game and be relaxed. The ball might be spinning for your victory.

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

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