Showing posts with label softball pitching drills. Show all posts
Showing posts with label softball pitching drills. Show all posts
Monday, July 8, 2013
Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers: Softball pitching tips with Amanda Scarborough
Former Texas A&M All-American softball pitcher Amanda Scarborough breaks down the fundamentals of several different softball pitches. For more info, visit Former Texas A&M All-American softball pitcher Amanda Scarborough breaks down the fundamentals of several different softball pitches. For more info, visit softball.com and Amanda9.com. and Amanda9.com.
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Softball Pitching - How to Easily Get 80% of Batters Out
By Marc Dagenais
I've coached at pretty much all levels of the game going from rec 8U to college and international softball in the as 20 years. I've coached and watched a lot of softball games in my life. A couple of years ago, I even spent an entire summer scouting (charting pitches, identifying pitching patterns, measuring speed, etc.) and filming the best pitchers in the world (Finch, Roche, Ueno, Fernandez, etc.) for the Canadian Women's National Team. One thing that seems to be consistent across all levels is the difficulty that the majority of batters have hitting the low inside and outside pitches. At the younger levels (not talking about 18U Gold or college ball), I strongly believe that if a pitcher keeps the ball low most of the time and throws strikes on the low corners (even only using a fastball), she can get easily 80% of the batters out.
Do you know many teams that carry a lot of hitters able to consistently hit rockets out of low inside or outside pitches? I don't. Most teams may have one or two such hitters - maybe three if they are lucky. Hitting a low inside or outside pitch (even if it is a strike) solidly is tough and challenging! As you know, I strongly believe in shifting the odds in your favor. Think about this for a second. Most hitters fail at least 70% of the time less than 300 batting average at the plate. The same hitters probably fail at least 85% of the time on low inside or outside pitches for strikes. What are the odds that 2 or even 3 hitters will line up several hits in a row to score a run if you keep the ball low, throw strikes and avoid giving up walks? The odds are very low - especially if your defense can do the job of getting the batters out on easy grounders or lazy pop-ups.
Bottom line - there are two things I want to emphasize:
1) Keep the ball low on the corners. Throw most of them for strikes.
2) Practice keeping the ball low.
Unless you are practicing a rise or a high pitch on purpose, everything you throw even in a warm-up should always be BELOW the waist (and knee-high ideally). I see a lot of pitchers who warm-up and keep throwing everything high until they get in their full motion. That's a mistake. Why so? Because you're training the habit of throwing the ball high. Pitching is a matter of timing and consistency of release point. Start right away learning to throw strikes low inside or outside consistently on each pitch - even in the warm-up. To go a step further, I would probably ban anything that is above the waist - unless it was meant when working with younger pitchers! Just doing this will quickly help you get most of the batters out! Imagine when you start mixing them up with change-ups and other moving pitches in addition to keeping the ball low, you can become very effective pitchers even if you don't throw that hard!
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Marc Dagenais, MHK, CSCS, is a softball peak performance coach that helps players and teams hit with more power and be more dominant on the softball field. To get tons of great FREE softball drills to boost your game, visit us at: http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills
I've coached at pretty much all levels of the game going from rec 8U to college and international softball in the as 20 years. I've coached and watched a lot of softball games in my life. A couple of years ago, I even spent an entire summer scouting (charting pitches, identifying pitching patterns, measuring speed, etc.) and filming the best pitchers in the world (Finch, Roche, Ueno, Fernandez, etc.) for the Canadian Women's National Team. One thing that seems to be consistent across all levels is the difficulty that the majority of batters have hitting the low inside and outside pitches. At the younger levels (not talking about 18U Gold or college ball), I strongly believe that if a pitcher keeps the ball low most of the time and throws strikes on the low corners (even only using a fastball), she can get easily 80% of the batters out.
Do you know many teams that carry a lot of hitters able to consistently hit rockets out of low inside or outside pitches? I don't. Most teams may have one or two such hitters - maybe three if they are lucky. Hitting a low inside or outside pitch (even if it is a strike) solidly is tough and challenging! As you know, I strongly believe in shifting the odds in your favor. Think about this for a second. Most hitters fail at least 70% of the time less than 300 batting average at the plate. The same hitters probably fail at least 85% of the time on low inside or outside pitches for strikes. What are the odds that 2 or even 3 hitters will line up several hits in a row to score a run if you keep the ball low, throw strikes and avoid giving up walks? The odds are very low - especially if your defense can do the job of getting the batters out on easy grounders or lazy pop-ups.
Bottom line - there are two things I want to emphasize:
1) Keep the ball low on the corners. Throw most of them for strikes.
2) Practice keeping the ball low.
Unless you are practicing a rise or a high pitch on purpose, everything you throw even in a warm-up should always be BELOW the waist (and knee-high ideally). I see a lot of pitchers who warm-up and keep throwing everything high until they get in their full motion. That's a mistake. Why so? Because you're training the habit of throwing the ball high. Pitching is a matter of timing and consistency of release point. Start right away learning to throw strikes low inside or outside consistently on each pitch - even in the warm-up. To go a step further, I would probably ban anything that is above the waist - unless it was meant when working with younger pitchers! Just doing this will quickly help you get most of the batters out! Imagine when you start mixing them up with change-ups and other moving pitches in addition to keeping the ball low, you can become very effective pitchers even if you don't throw that hard!
Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Marc Dagenais, MHK, CSCS, is a softball peak performance coach that helps players and teams hit with more power and be more dominant on the softball field. To get tons of great FREE softball drills to boost your game, visit us at: http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Free Girls Softball Fastpitch Drills
Free Girls Softball Fastpitch Drills
By guest author: Becky Wittenburg
Any softball coach or player who wants to learn more softball drills can easily find a lot of drills in books and videos and on the internet. Most of these drills cost money but some of them are free. These free girls softball fastpitch drills are very good. Most of the free drills focus on throwing, fielding, and hitting the ball.
Throwing the Ball
The position of a player determines the most common types of throws that player will have to make. For example, a 3rd baseman will need to make hard throws all the way across the diamond to 1st base while a right fielder will most commonly have to make a longer throw from the outfield to a cut-off man near the infield or to a base.
The Before Inning Warm-up Drill
All softball coaches and players know what players do before an inning begins. The first baseman throws a grounder to each infielder while the outfielder stands in their positions and play catch. This is a common drill during games but it should also be performed everyday in practice.
The Relay Throws Drill
The Relay Throws Drill is another one of the good free girls softball fastpitch drills. This drill involves 2 outfields lining up on each side of an infielder. Each player should be about 100 feet apart.
One of the outfielders starts out with the ball and throws the infielder the ball using the crow-hop. The infielder catches the ball, pivots, and uses the crow-hop while throwing the ball to the other outfielder. That outfielder catches the ball and then throws back to the infielder, once again using the crow-hop.
This drill allows all 3 players to practice throwing using a crow-hop. It also helps teach the outfielders to hit the cutoff man. Finally, it helps the infielder practice receiving the cutoff throw, pivoting, and throwing to the desired base.
Fielding
It doesn't matter how well a team can hit and pitch if the team can't play good defense in the field. The key to playing good defense is for every player to be fundamentally sound. A great drill for this the No Glove Fielding Drill.
The No Glove Fielding Drill
Just as the name suggests, this fastpitch softball drill requires players to field the ball without a glove. The drill can be run with bare hands or with a board that is specially made for the drill and worn on the fielders' glove hand.
Players can either field balls hit to them by the coach (more advanced) or they can field balls rolled to them. They need to concentrate on keeping their upper bodies square with the ball (get in front of the ball), bending at the knees, and cradling the ball with two hands into their body.
Once players master the technique of fielding without a glove then they will find fielding with a glove much easier.
Hitting
The only way for a player to get better with hitting the ball is for them to actually hit. Players can either hit a ball off a tee (to work on the basics) or they can hit pitches. Also, a part of hitting that is often overlooked is bunting. Players should be required to lay down at least 3 bunts every time they take batting practice (BP). If possible, players should take BP every practice and before every game.
Look for Free Girls Fastpitch Softball Drills
Softball players need to be drilled on the basics of the game (throwing, fielding, and hitting) as often as possible. Any coach or player who is looking for drills to do can easily find them. In fact, there are a great many free girls softball fastpitch drills on the internet.
Becky Wittenburg has been coaching softball for over 15 years- it is her true passion. She's constantly on the lookout for new free girls softball fastpitch drills. You can get instant access to a sample of her softball practice plans by visiting her website:
SoftballSpot.com
For a limited time, all coaches who visit Becky's site will also get a free copy of her special report: "The 7 Biggest Mistakes Softball Coaches Make". Go get your free copy today!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Becky_Wittenburg
===========================
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
By guest author: Becky Wittenburg
Any softball coach or player who wants to learn more softball drills can easily find a lot of drills in books and videos and on the internet. Most of these drills cost money but some of them are free. These free girls softball fastpitch drills are very good. Most of the free drills focus on throwing, fielding, and hitting the ball.
Throwing the Ball
The position of a player determines the most common types of throws that player will have to make. For example, a 3rd baseman will need to make hard throws all the way across the diamond to 1st base while a right fielder will most commonly have to make a longer throw from the outfield to a cut-off man near the infield or to a base.
The Before Inning Warm-up Drill
All softball coaches and players know what players do before an inning begins. The first baseman throws a grounder to each infielder while the outfielder stands in their positions and play catch. This is a common drill during games but it should also be performed everyday in practice.
The Relay Throws Drill
The Relay Throws Drill is another one of the good free girls softball fastpitch drills. This drill involves 2 outfields lining up on each side of an infielder. Each player should be about 100 feet apart.
One of the outfielders starts out with the ball and throws the infielder the ball using the crow-hop. The infielder catches the ball, pivots, and uses the crow-hop while throwing the ball to the other outfielder. That outfielder catches the ball and then throws back to the infielder, once again using the crow-hop.
This drill allows all 3 players to practice throwing using a crow-hop. It also helps teach the outfielders to hit the cutoff man. Finally, it helps the infielder practice receiving the cutoff throw, pivoting, and throwing to the desired base.
Fielding
It doesn't matter how well a team can hit and pitch if the team can't play good defense in the field. The key to playing good defense is for every player to be fundamentally sound. A great drill for this the No Glove Fielding Drill.
The No Glove Fielding Drill
Just as the name suggests, this fastpitch softball drill requires players to field the ball without a glove. The drill can be run with bare hands or with a board that is specially made for the drill and worn on the fielders' glove hand.
Players can either field balls hit to them by the coach (more advanced) or they can field balls rolled to them. They need to concentrate on keeping their upper bodies square with the ball (get in front of the ball), bending at the knees, and cradling the ball with two hands into their body.
Once players master the technique of fielding without a glove then they will find fielding with a glove much easier.
Hitting
The only way for a player to get better with hitting the ball is for them to actually hit. Players can either hit a ball off a tee (to work on the basics) or they can hit pitches. Also, a part of hitting that is often overlooked is bunting. Players should be required to lay down at least 3 bunts every time they take batting practice (BP). If possible, players should take BP every practice and before every game.
Look for Free Girls Fastpitch Softball Drills
Softball players need to be drilled on the basics of the game (throwing, fielding, and hitting) as often as possible. Any coach or player who is looking for drills to do can easily find them. In fact, there are a great many free girls softball fastpitch drills on the internet.
Becky Wittenburg has been coaching softball for over 15 years- it is her true passion. She's constantly on the lookout for new free girls softball fastpitch drills. You can get instant access to a sample of her softball practice plans by visiting her website:
SoftballSpot.com
For a limited time, all coaches who visit Becky's site will also get a free copy of her special report: "The 7 Biggest Mistakes Softball Coaches Make". Go get your free copy today!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Becky_Wittenburg
===========================
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Softball Pitching Tips and Drills - Increase Speed Video
Softball Pitching Tips and Drills - Increase Speed Video
Uploaded by softballperformance http://www.softballperformance.com - Softball pitching drills and tips on how to increase pitching speed
========================
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Heater Jr Baseball Pitching Machine by Trend Sports
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Woman Softball Star Cat Osterman talks about Pitching Skill
Woman Softball Star Cat Osterman talks about Pitching Skill
Uploaded by STACKVids
Cat Osterman, NCAA all time leader for strikeouts per 7 innings in Women's softball, and 2004 Summer Olympics athlete, tells us who taught her the art of pitching. ""I had some pitching lessons for my 11th birthday, because I have been on a little league team. Little league regalates how many innings a pitcher can throw in a week. I think we had a bigger game at the end of the week, so our coach needed a pitcher to come in to pitch two innings. The pitcher that has started alraedy had a lot of her innings, and our better pitcher they were saving for the end of the week. At that time I in the outfield, just picking flowers and not doing much of anything, so I volunteered and came in. I don't know if I struck out my first hitter or one of their better hitters. I still remember who it was to this day. I struck out one person and I loved it, so from then on I asked my dad for those pitching lessons. I wanted to try it, and as long as I was working at it, he was happy giving lessons. We went and sought out a pitching coach in Houston, his name was Tim Timmons. He gave me lessons for the first three years, then I went to another coach Bobby Smith, who is still a men's pitcher to this day.""
===========================
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Uploaded by STACKVids
Cat Osterman, NCAA all time leader for strikeouts per 7 innings in Women's softball, and 2004 Summer Olympics athlete, tells us who taught her the art of pitching. ""I had some pitching lessons for my 11th birthday, because I have been on a little league team. Little league regalates how many innings a pitcher can throw in a week. I think we had a bigger game at the end of the week, so our coach needed a pitcher to come in to pitch two innings. The pitcher that has started alraedy had a lot of her innings, and our better pitcher they were saving for the end of the week. At that time I in the outfield, just picking flowers and not doing much of anything, so I volunteered and came in. I don't know if I struck out my first hitter or one of their better hitters. I still remember who it was to this day. I struck out one person and I loved it, so from then on I asked my dad for those pitching lessons. I wanted to try it, and as long as I was working at it, he was happy giving lessons. We went and sought out a pitching coach in Houston, his name was Tim Timmons. He gave me lessons for the first three years, then I went to another coach Bobby Smith, who is still a men's pitcher to this day.""
===========================
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Thursday, July 21, 2011
How to Fast-Pitch in Softball
How to Fast-Pitch in Softball
Uploaded by livestrong
It's helpful to use your whole body when pitching in softball. Learn some tips towards throwing faster strikes in this softball video.
=================
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Baseball2u.com and CoachesBest.com is your online super store for baseball batting cages, pitching machines and protective screens and nets. This fully licensed company has a full time staff to help you from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. You may order securely online or by phone, toll free, at 1-877-431-4487.
Check out these categories that are featured at Baseball2u.com.
Jugs Complete Packages
Batting Cages
60' Portable Batting Cage
55' Portable Batting Cage
70' Portable Batting Cage
Extender Batting Cage 30'
Jugs Pitching Machines
Iron Mike Pitching Machines
BATA Pitching Machines
Heater Pitching Machines
Granada Pitching Machines
Phantom Pitching Machines
…and if you are looking for Youth Training Equipment, Advanced Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, and Pitching & Throwing Trainers, or Portable Mounds, they have those too!
Plus, they have one the internet's largest selections of Baseball Training and Coaching DVDs and Books. Make sure to chweck our their CLEARANCE DEPARTMENT for rock bottom prices on top quality equipment.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Excellent Drills For Softball Pitching
Excellent Drills For Softball Pitching
By guest author: Marc Dagenais
It is known to every pitcher that a good hitter won't able to beat a good pitcher. Softball pitching is one of the most difficult positions in a softball game. It is a skill that needs your intense thinking to what would be the best strategy to use while keeping yourself in concentration inside the diamond. It is a must that if you desire to be good pitcher, you should know what are the drills to use in order to improve your pitching skills.
Excellent softball pitching is not innate in us, it is being developed! Why have your drills? First, it is to identify the key parts of motion so that you can concentrate on it. This will also speed up your learning. Second, drill makes you repeat your movement per time. With this kind of training, you would be able to master the pitching mechanics. It is a must that you should get the correct form so as to perfect it.
Here are some of those drills that you can use in perfecting that excellent pitch.
1. Static pitching - you will throw the ball so a catcher should stand by. You should be facing the catcher about 8 to 10 meters (24 to 30 feet) in distance. Throw the ball in windmill motion while the feet remains steady or stay in place. Rotate your body in full motion. You may start at easy pace. Just add more speed gradually as you become comfortable with your motion. This drill promotes upper body rotation increase your pitching power.
2. Dry Pitching - you may begin with the typical pitching position, long step forward, and stride foot in front of pivot foot. At a rate of 1minute per second. Pitch your arm in continuous full circles. You should aim your rounding circles with your target, with your arms close to head at top. Arm must meet your hips at point of release on each repetition. This drill is designed develop a perfect circle and to promote arm-hip coordination.
3. Pendulum drill - begin with a long step forward, with your foot in a stride position in front of your pivot foot. Your pitching hand should be at the top of the down-swing, or half back of the circle. Put your pitching arm down to the release point and hold it tight against body for a second. The weight should be at your back foot. Finish the movement by forcing the body and hips forward by pushing hard with your pivot foot. As your movement becomes natural, allow your arm to swing right through without pausing. Just ensure that the arm continues to brush your hip each time you do it. This drill will improve your throwing skills with your whole body working, not just with your arms.
These are just some of those many softball pitching drills that you can use in order to improve your pitching skills. By continue doing those drill and research some more will guarantee you a best form in doing your softball pitching.
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
=====================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
By guest author: Marc Dagenais
It is known to every pitcher that a good hitter won't able to beat a good pitcher. Softball pitching is one of the most difficult positions in a softball game. It is a skill that needs your intense thinking to what would be the best strategy to use while keeping yourself in concentration inside the diamond. It is a must that if you desire to be good pitcher, you should know what are the drills to use in order to improve your pitching skills.
Excellent softball pitching is not innate in us, it is being developed! Why have your drills? First, it is to identify the key parts of motion so that you can concentrate on it. This will also speed up your learning. Second, drill makes you repeat your movement per time. With this kind of training, you would be able to master the pitching mechanics. It is a must that you should get the correct form so as to perfect it.
Here are some of those drills that you can use in perfecting that excellent pitch.
1. Static pitching - you will throw the ball so a catcher should stand by. You should be facing the catcher about 8 to 10 meters (24 to 30 feet) in distance. Throw the ball in windmill motion while the feet remains steady or stay in place. Rotate your body in full motion. You may start at easy pace. Just add more speed gradually as you become comfortable with your motion. This drill promotes upper body rotation increase your pitching power.
2. Dry Pitching - you may begin with the typical pitching position, long step forward, and stride foot in front of pivot foot. At a rate of 1minute per second. Pitch your arm in continuous full circles. You should aim your rounding circles with your target, with your arms close to head at top. Arm must meet your hips at point of release on each repetition. This drill is designed develop a perfect circle and to promote arm-hip coordination.
3. Pendulum drill - begin with a long step forward, with your foot in a stride position in front of your pivot foot. Your pitching hand should be at the top of the down-swing, or half back of the circle. Put your pitching arm down to the release point and hold it tight against body for a second. The weight should be at your back foot. Finish the movement by forcing the body and hips forward by pushing hard with your pivot foot. As your movement becomes natural, allow your arm to swing right through without pausing. Just ensure that the arm continues to brush your hip each time you do it. This drill will improve your throwing skills with your whole body working, not just with your arms.
These are just some of those many softball pitching drills that you can use in order to improve your pitching skills. By continue doing those drill and research some more will guarantee you a best form in doing your softball pitching.
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
=====================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Softball Pitching Tips and Drills - Increase Speed Video
http://www.mavenvideo.com - Softball pitching drills and tips on how to increase pitching speed with Ernie Parker
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Softball Pitching - The Mechanics of the Fastball
Softball Pitching - The Mechanics of the Fastball
By guest author: Michael J. Todd
Developing a good fastball is a requirement for all softball pitchers. This is the first pitch that should be learned and can be both challenging and frustrating. The best way to learn the fastball is through repeating the motion over and over again until it becomes second nature. Then, and only then, should a pitcher move on to other pitches.
Here are the mechanics of a good fastball:
1. Start off relaxed. If you start tense, you will tense throughout the pitch and it is increases the likelihood of a bad pitch.
2. Lean forward slightly and get a good push off of the rubber. It is OK to lean a little in order to get a better push off. You should stand tall before starting the windmill portion of the pitch.
3. As you begin the windmill motion, your body should open up. Your body should open towards the side of your pitching arm. Picture your body as a door. At the start of the pitch, the door is closed. As your start the windmill, the door should open up.
4. The arm windmill should be in a straight line with the catcher. Keep your arm straight during the windmill but be careful not to lock your elbow.
5. You should push off in the direction of home plate. Your stride foot should land turned at a slight angle. For a fastball down the middle, it should land on the power line. The power line is an imaginary line that extends from the middle of the pitcher's rubber to the middle of home base. For pitches on the outside or inside corner, adjust where your stride foot lands in proximity to the power line. Sometimes it helps to actually use some chalk and draw the power line for a beginning pitcher.
6. As the windmill motion reaches the release point, be sure to keep your arm tight to your body. Your body should close (remember the door analogy) as your arm gets to the release point. The ball should be released at the hip. Snap your wrist at release and continue your motion so that you have a natural follow-through.
7. Finish the pitch by sliding your push-off foot up so that it end up close to the stride foot. Get in the ready position so you will be prepared for any balls hit right back up the middle.
Learn to pitch the right way with Softball Pitching Drills.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_J._Todd
===================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com and CoachesBest.com is your online super store for baseball batting cages, pitching machines and protective screens and nets. This fully licensed company has a full time staff to help you from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. You may order securely online or by phone, toll free, at 1-877-431-4487.
Check out these categories that are featured at Baseball2u.com.
Jugs Complete Packages
Batting Cages
60' Portable Batting Cage
55' Portable Batting Cage
70' Portable Batting Cage
Extender Batting Cage 30'
Jugs Pitching Machines
Iron Mike Pitching Machines
BATA Pitching Machines
Heater Pitching Machines
Granada Pitching Machines
Phantom Pitching Machines
…and if you are looking for Youth Training Equipment, Advanced Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, and Pitching & Throwing Trainers, or Portable Mounds, they have those too!
Plus, they have one the internet's largest selections of Baseball Training and Coaching DVDs and Books. Make sure to chweck our their CLEARANCE DEPARTMENT for rock bottom prices on top quality equipment.
By guest author: Michael J. Todd
Developing a good fastball is a requirement for all softball pitchers. This is the first pitch that should be learned and can be both challenging and frustrating. The best way to learn the fastball is through repeating the motion over and over again until it becomes second nature. Then, and only then, should a pitcher move on to other pitches.
Here are the mechanics of a good fastball:
1. Start off relaxed. If you start tense, you will tense throughout the pitch and it is increases the likelihood of a bad pitch.
2. Lean forward slightly and get a good push off of the rubber. It is OK to lean a little in order to get a better push off. You should stand tall before starting the windmill portion of the pitch.
3. As you begin the windmill motion, your body should open up. Your body should open towards the side of your pitching arm. Picture your body as a door. At the start of the pitch, the door is closed. As your start the windmill, the door should open up.
4. The arm windmill should be in a straight line with the catcher. Keep your arm straight during the windmill but be careful not to lock your elbow.
5. You should push off in the direction of home plate. Your stride foot should land turned at a slight angle. For a fastball down the middle, it should land on the power line. The power line is an imaginary line that extends from the middle of the pitcher's rubber to the middle of home base. For pitches on the outside or inside corner, adjust where your stride foot lands in proximity to the power line. Sometimes it helps to actually use some chalk and draw the power line for a beginning pitcher.
6. As the windmill motion reaches the release point, be sure to keep your arm tight to your body. Your body should close (remember the door analogy) as your arm gets to the release point. The ball should be released at the hip. Snap your wrist at release and continue your motion so that you have a natural follow-through.
7. Finish the pitch by sliding your push-off foot up so that it end up close to the stride foot. Get in the ready position so you will be prepared for any balls hit right back up the middle.
Learn to pitch the right way with Softball Pitching Drills.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_J._Todd
===================
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Monday, May 16, 2011
Exercises to Increase Fast Pitch Softball Pitching Speed
Exercises to Increase Fast Pitch Softball Pitching Speed
By guest author: Marc Dagenais
Pitching speed is something you can never have too much of as a pitcher. It's true that pitching wins championships and you always want to throw with fire at your opposition. Softball pitching drills that increase speed are usually the fastball type of drills and in this article are several of those. So, if you want to become a flame thrower then work with these following drills and you will see that the amount of speed on your pitches is certainly becoming a lot higher.
Drill 1 - Arm-Speed Development
Purpose: To learn the feeling of arm speed and to develop acceleration through the arm circle.
Procedure: The pitcher works alone on her arm circle. The drill has two parts.
- The pitcher stands in a sideways pitching position with the stride leg forward and the pitching arm above the head at the top of the circle. She moves the arm around in a perfect circle as fast as she can to get the feel of high arm speed. She keeps the arm totally relaxed, as loose as a noodle.
- The pitcher then focuses on building acceleration through the circle. Still sideways, she begins with the pitching arm at waist level. The pitcher focuses on lifting the arm in a relaxed manner and increasing the speed of the arm by accelerating on the downswing with a whip-like action. The arm is extended (elbow relaxed) to create the biggest arc and lever possible. The longer the lever, the more force it can produce.
Drill 2 - No Stride
Purpose: To promote proper ball release and speed.
Procedure: The pitcher delivers a ball to a partner without using a forward stride. The partner can be another pitcher, so this is a good warm-up drill. The stride foot is even with the pivot foot. The pitcher pitches the ball using good hip rotation, a strong snap of the wrist, and a good follow-through, focusing on proper hip and arm mechanics. Pitchers should be aware of the danger of not rotating the hips and then throwing only with the arm.
Drill 3 - 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 4 - Wall 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,
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
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1944247
====================
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The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
By guest author: Marc Dagenais
Pitching speed is something you can never have too much of as a pitcher. It's true that pitching wins championships and you always want to throw with fire at your opposition. Softball pitching drills that increase speed are usually the fastball type of drills and in this article are several of those. So, if you want to become a flame thrower then work with these following drills and you will see that the amount of speed on your pitches is certainly becoming a lot higher.
Drill 1 - Arm-Speed Development
Purpose: To learn the feeling of arm speed and to develop acceleration through the arm circle.
Procedure: The pitcher works alone on her arm circle. The drill has two parts.
- The pitcher stands in a sideways pitching position with the stride leg forward and the pitching arm above the head at the top of the circle. She moves the arm around in a perfect circle as fast as she can to get the feel of high arm speed. She keeps the arm totally relaxed, as loose as a noodle.
- The pitcher then focuses on building acceleration through the circle. Still sideways, she begins with the pitching arm at waist level. The pitcher focuses on lifting the arm in a relaxed manner and increasing the speed of the arm by accelerating on the downswing with a whip-like action. The arm is extended (elbow relaxed) to create the biggest arc and lever possible. The longer the lever, the more force it can produce.
Drill 2 - No Stride
Purpose: To promote proper ball release and speed.
Procedure: The pitcher delivers a ball to a partner without using a forward stride. The partner can be another pitcher, so this is a good warm-up drill. The stride foot is even with the pivot foot. The pitcher pitches the ball using good hip rotation, a strong snap of the wrist, and a good follow-through, focusing on proper hip and arm mechanics. Pitchers should be aware of the danger of not rotating the hips and then throwing only with the arm.
Drill 3 - 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 4 - Wall 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,
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
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1944247
====================
Thanks to our sponsors:
===Advertisement from our sponsor:=====
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
Monday, March 28, 2011
5 Easy Softball Pitching Grip Strength Drills
5 Easy Softball Pitching Grip Strength Drills
By guest author: Brad Henks
Pitching in Fastpitch Softball takes a lot of raw talent,skill, knowledge of the game, practice and strength to be an elite pitcher. Many pitchers have the raw talent, they can gain the skills and the game knowledge from practice. To rise from an average pitcher to one that makes the riseball "pop" takes more than just practice, it takes a strong grip. And now a strong grip can be gained easily at home with these 5 easy steps.
This article will give you some simple drills that you can do at home. Most of the items mentioned can be found in your pantry or garage. Just ask your parents to help you find them. These 5 simple drills can help you go from an average fastpitch softball pitcher to a great one.
Drill 1:
Grab a can of soup or vegetables from the pantry. A small 2 lb weight is also good for this. Any small weight you can fit in your hand.
Hold the can in your hand with palms down. Then raise your wrists up and down 15-20 times. (Increase the weight if you don't feel it in your forearm on top.) Rest 1 minute, then repeat this for 3-5 sets.
Drill 2:
This is a modification of the first drill. Simply hold the can with palms up and raise your wrists up and down 15-20 times until you feel it. Then do one more. Rest 1 minute, then repeat 3-5 reps.
(Drills 1 and 2 can be done using a weighted ball just as well.)
Drill 3:
This drill requires a rod about 15 inches long, a length of rope or cord about 24 inches long, a heavy weight aprx 5 lbs.. ( an empty milk jug filled with water works great)
Tie the weight to one end of the rope, then tie the other end to the center of the rod.
Hold the rod with your palms facing down and equally spaced on the rod.
Begin to roll the rod and raise the weight all the way to the rod. Hold it for 3 seconds, then slowly unroll until it is all the way down again.
Repeat this rolling up and down 15 times. Rest 1 minute and repeat for 3 reps. You should really feel this in your upper forearms and hands. Increase the weight until 12-15 raises is all you can do.
Drill 4:
Use the same contraption used in Drill 3. This time turn your hands palms up and roll the weight all the way up and then slowly down 15 times. Rest 1 minute and repeat for 3 reps. Increase the weight until 12-15 raises is all you can do.
Drill 5:
This one is a little different. Take a 2 liter soda bottle filled about half way with water. Hold it by the top and flip it up and catch bottom end in your hand. Grab again by the top and repeat the flips 15 times. Repeat with the other hand. Do 3 reps.
Do these drills 3 times a week and in the off season you will notice a huge increase in grip strength. When fastpitch softball season comes your spins will be significantly faster and it will be easier to grip the ball.
BONUS DRILLS
Do you want to find more bonus drills? You can increase your spin rate dramatically by following these and more. Find pitching grip strength drills that college and pro players use. Some of these are pretty intense, so if you are serious about softball pitching click the link below now.
Even More Pitching Strength Drills
Fastpitch Softball pitchers that want to increase their spin rate or just need to get stronger. Find more articles and bonus drills and videos about pitching grip strength by clicking the links below. Also find lots of good information about fastpitch softball gloves.
http://www.BuyFastpitchGloves.com/articles.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brad_Henks
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5619253
===============
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---If you are looking for BatAction Replacement Balls or Power Bands Click Here
By guest author: Brad Henks
Pitching in Fastpitch Softball takes a lot of raw talent,skill, knowledge of the game, practice and strength to be an elite pitcher. Many pitchers have the raw talent, they can gain the skills and the game knowledge from practice. To rise from an average pitcher to one that makes the riseball "pop" takes more than just practice, it takes a strong grip. And now a strong grip can be gained easily at home with these 5 easy steps.
This article will give you some simple drills that you can do at home. Most of the items mentioned can be found in your pantry or garage. Just ask your parents to help you find them. These 5 simple drills can help you go from an average fastpitch softball pitcher to a great one.
Drill 1:
Grab a can of soup or vegetables from the pantry. A small 2 lb weight is also good for this. Any small weight you can fit in your hand.
Hold the can in your hand with palms down. Then raise your wrists up and down 15-20 times. (Increase the weight if you don't feel it in your forearm on top.) Rest 1 minute, then repeat this for 3-5 sets.
Drill 2:
This is a modification of the first drill. Simply hold the can with palms up and raise your wrists up and down 15-20 times until you feel it. Then do one more. Rest 1 minute, then repeat 3-5 reps.
(Drills 1 and 2 can be done using a weighted ball just as well.)
Drill 3:
This drill requires a rod about 15 inches long, a length of rope or cord about 24 inches long, a heavy weight aprx 5 lbs.. ( an empty milk jug filled with water works great)
Tie the weight to one end of the rope, then tie the other end to the center of the rod.
Hold the rod with your palms facing down and equally spaced on the rod.
Begin to roll the rod and raise the weight all the way to the rod. Hold it for 3 seconds, then slowly unroll until it is all the way down again.
Repeat this rolling up and down 15 times. Rest 1 minute and repeat for 3 reps. You should really feel this in your upper forearms and hands. Increase the weight until 12-15 raises is all you can do.
Drill 4:
Use the same contraption used in Drill 3. This time turn your hands palms up and roll the weight all the way up and then slowly down 15 times. Rest 1 minute and repeat for 3 reps. Increase the weight until 12-15 raises is all you can do.
Drill 5:
This one is a little different. Take a 2 liter soda bottle filled about half way with water. Hold it by the top and flip it up and catch bottom end in your hand. Grab again by the top and repeat the flips 15 times. Repeat with the other hand. Do 3 reps.
Do these drills 3 times a week and in the off season you will notice a huge increase in grip strength. When fastpitch softball season comes your spins will be significantly faster and it will be easier to grip the ball.
BONUS DRILLS
Do you want to find more bonus drills? You can increase your spin rate dramatically by following these and more. Find pitching grip strength drills that college and pro players use. Some of these are pretty intense, so if you are serious about softball pitching click the link below now.
Even More Pitching Strength Drills
Fastpitch Softball pitchers that want to increase their spin rate or just need to get stronger. Find more articles and bonus drills and videos about pitching grip strength by clicking the links below. Also find lots of good information about fastpitch softball gloves.
http://www.BuyFastpitchGloves.com/articles.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brad_Henks
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5619253
===============
Thanks to our sponsors:
www.BatAction.com
---BatAction Machine at CoachesBest.com
---BatActionMachine on Ebay.com
---BatAction Machine Video Clips
---BatAction Trainer - 15 Reasons Why You Must Own This Machine
---Message to Parents From Coach Nick
---If you are looking for BatAction Replacement Balls or Power Bands Click Here
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Fastpitch Softball Pitching Drills #401 Destroy The Batter's Timing
http://www.mavenvideo.com - Softball pitching drills and tips on how to create essential techniques for destroying the batter's timing and the drills and tips by coach Bob Todd. This video is a preview from his full DVD from mavenvideo The Change Up to be release in 2010.
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SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Thanks to our sponsor:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Softball Practice Drills
Softball Practice Drills
By Marc Dagenais
The following softball practice drills are a means of getting your softball game to the next level. By using these drills to improve your game, you will reach another level you thought you weren't able too before. The following drills should be covered in practice to ensure that you become as skilled a player as possible.
Drill 1 - All Out (Softball Catching)
Purpose: To practice going all out on the dive.
Procedure: A fielder faces a tosser 20 to 30 feet away. The first throw is over or to the side of the fielder's head. The fielder catches the ball and makes a good throw to the tosser. The fielder then runs hard toward the tosser, who flips a soft toss that the fielder must dive for to catch. The fielder goes to the end of the line to wait for her next turn.
Drill 2 - Three Points (Softball Pitching)
Purpose: To create competition and pressure for the pitcher when pitching to a catcher's targets.
Procedure: The catcher gives a target, and for advanced players she may call a pitch. If the pitcher hits the target, she gets one point. If she misses, she loses a point. When the pitcher reaches three points, the game is over. Add difficulty by requiring every fourth pitch to be a change-up.
Drill 3 - Random Ball Conditioning (Softball Catchers)
Purpose: To practice throws to bases and improve conditioning.
Procedure: Randomly place six to eight balls in front of home. From the squat position the catcher explodes and throws to a receiver at the base, hustles back into catching position, and continues until all of the balls have been thrown. Repeat the drill with the catcher throwing to a different base.
Drill 4 - Thunderstick (Softball Hitting)
Purpose: To learn to see the ball better at contact.
Procedure: Using a very narrow bat for hitting and bunting forces the batter to look intently at the ball at contact. To make to bats to use with baseball and golf-size Wiffles, cut broomsticks or doweling to bat size and tape the handles. Use the thunderstick to hit or bunt Wiffles off a soft toss.
Drill 5 - Slap and Run Around Cone (Softball Slap Hitting)
Purpose: To practice running toward the pitcher when slapping.
Procedure: The slapper hits off a pitcher or machine. Place a cone two steps in front of the batter's box in line with the pitcher. The slapper must run around the cone before heading toward first base. The cone prevents the slapper from turning too early toward first.
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
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
5 Softball Pitching Drills
By Marc Dagenais
Drill 1: Fast and Slow
Purpose: To practice changing speeds.
Procedure: Working with her catcher, the pitcher alternates fast and off-speed pitches. The goal is to keep the delivery the same.
Drill 2: Football Toss
Purpose: To develop correct rise-ball release.
Procedure: The pitcher throws a junior-sized football underhand to a partner. Grip it along the seam with all the fingers and with the thumb on the opposite side. The ball should spiral. If it wobbles in flight, the palm has turned toward the catcher at release.
Drill 3: Four-Corner Control
Purpose: To develop control and accuracy.
Procedure: The pitcher throws to the extreme four corners of the strike zone. When she achieves accuracy at one spot, she moves the target to the next corner. A catcher or a target on the wall can be used. To adjust for the in and out targets, the pitcher must adjust her body angle from her normal stance. She turns the toe on the rubber about a half inch in or out from the position she used to throw to the middle of the plate.
Drill 4: Wrist Snap Behind Back
Purpose: To develop the wrist snap by isolating the wrist, which prevents the pitcher from using the elbow to snap the ball.
Procedure: The pitcher stands sideways 5 to 10 feet from the catcher or a wall. The glove side faces the target, and the ball is behind the back. The pitcher flips the ball by snapping the wrist.
Drill 5: Oversized and Undersized Ball Spins
Purpose: To make the pitcher practice throwing a riseball.
Procedure: Using a baseball or an 11-inch ball may help the pitcher make the correct movements to get underneath the ball. The smaller the size of the ball allows the fingers to be more flexible and allows the correct movements to occur with less effort. A pitcher can use an undersized ball when initially trying to create muscle memory for the correct spin movements. An oversized ball is helpful in speeding up the wrist snap because the hand must pass under more area in the same amount of time. The oversized ball can also illustrate the spin to a pitcher who may be struggling with the backward concept. A 14-inch ball seems to be the perfect size because the pitcher can hold on to it comfortably throughout the circle before snapping the wrist at release. The routine used with these balls can mirror the routing used with the Spinner-starting close up without the circle and adding distance as well as the full circle.
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
Check out these coaching articles at the Softball Coaching Digest:
---SoftballCoachingDigest.com
---Articles from the Youth Softball Coaching Clinic Blog
---Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers Blog
---Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Hitters Blog
---Articles from the Tips for Fastpitch Softball Coaches Blog
---The Fastpitch Softball Training Equipment Blog
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Excellent Drills For Softball Pitching
By Marc Dagenais
It is known to every pitcher that a good hitter won't able to beat a good pitcher. Softball pitching is one of the most difficult positions in a softball game. It is a skill that needs your intense thinking to what would be the best strategy to use while keeping yourself in concentration inside the diamond. It is a must that if you desire to be good pitcher, you should know what are the drills to use in order to improve your pitching skills.
Excellent softball pitching is not innate in us, it is being developed! Why have your drills? First, it is to identify the key parts of motion so that you can concentrate on it. This will also speed up your learning. Second, drill makes you repeat your movement per time. With this kind of training, you would be able to master the pitching mechanics. It is a must that you should get the correct form so as to perfect it.
Here are some of those drills that you can use in perfecting that excellent pitch.
1. Static pitching - you will throw the ball so a catcher should stand by. You should be facing the catcher about 8 to 10 meters (24 to 30 feet) in distance. Throw the ball in windmill motion while the feet remains steady or stay in place. Rotate your body in full motion. You may start at easy pace. Just add more speed gradually as you become comfortable with your motion. This drill promotes upper body rotation increase your pitching power.
2. Dry Pitching - you may begin with the typical pitching position, long step forward, and stride foot in front of pivot foot. At a rate of 1minute per second. Pitch your arm in continuous full circles. You should aim your rounding circles with your target, with your arms close to head at top. Arm must meet your hips at point of release on each repetition. This drill is designed develop a perfect circle and to promote arm-hip coordination.
3. Pendulum drill - begin with a long step forward, with your foot in a stride position in front of your pivot foot. Your pitching hand should be at the top of the down-swing, or half back of the circle. Put your pitching arm down to the release point and hold it tight against body for a second. The weight should be at your back foot. Finish the movement by forcing the body and hips forward by pushing hard with your pivot foot. As your movement becomes natural, allow your arm to swing right through without pausing. Just ensure that the arm continues to brush your hip each time you do it. This drill will improve your throwing skills with your whole body working, not just with your arms.
These are just some of those many softball pitching drills that you can use in order to improve your pitching skills. By continue doing those drill and research some more will guarantee you a best form in doing your softball pitching.
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
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
It is known to every pitcher that a good hitter won't able to beat a good pitcher. Softball pitching is one of the most difficult positions in a softball game. It is a skill that needs your intense thinking to what would be the best strategy to use while keeping yourself in concentration inside the diamond. It is a must that if you desire to be good pitcher, you should know what are the drills to use in order to improve your pitching skills.
Excellent softball pitching is not innate in us, it is being developed! Why have your drills? First, it is to identify the key parts of motion so that you can concentrate on it. This will also speed up your learning. Second, drill makes you repeat your movement per time. With this kind of training, you would be able to master the pitching mechanics. It is a must that you should get the correct form so as to perfect it.
Here are some of those drills that you can use in perfecting that excellent pitch.
1. Static pitching - you will throw the ball so a catcher should stand by. You should be facing the catcher about 8 to 10 meters (24 to 30 feet) in distance. Throw the ball in windmill motion while the feet remains steady or stay in place. Rotate your body in full motion. You may start at easy pace. Just add more speed gradually as you become comfortable with your motion. This drill promotes upper body rotation increase your pitching power.
2. Dry Pitching - you may begin with the typical pitching position, long step forward, and stride foot in front of pivot foot. At a rate of 1minute per second. Pitch your arm in continuous full circles. You should aim your rounding circles with your target, with your arms close to head at top. Arm must meet your hips at point of release on each repetition. This drill is designed develop a perfect circle and to promote arm-hip coordination.
3. Pendulum drill - begin with a long step forward, with your foot in a stride position in front of your pivot foot. Your pitching hand should be at the top of the down-swing, or half back of the circle. Put your pitching arm down to the release point and hold it tight against body for a second. The weight should be at your back foot. Finish the movement by forcing the body and hips forward by pushing hard with your pivot foot. As your movement becomes natural, allow your arm to swing right through without pausing. Just ensure that the arm continues to brush your hip each time you do it. This drill will improve your throwing skills with your whole body working, not just with your arms.
These are just some of those many softball pitching drills that you can use in order to improve your pitching skills. By continue doing those drill and research some more will guarantee you a best form in doing your softball pitching.
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!
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