How Glove Hand Movement Dictates Control and Power

 

No Glove Hand Movement

A passive glove hand and a lack of lower-body drive result in poor control.

The glove hand balances the motion from start to throwing action, ending up under the armpit.

In the starting position, the front hip is behind the back hip, and the throwing arm fires the ball without proper lower body involvement.

In essence, the glove hand balances the motion and ends up under the armpit. The lack of proper lower body means hitters chase bad pitches and patient hitters get more walks.

Correct Glove Hand Movement

An active glove hand initiates and drives the lower body, resulting in greater power and accuracy.

In the starting position, the front foot is even with the front hip. The weight is just in front of the back foot and maintained by the front leg lift.

By triggering the glove hand to drive the lower body, the lower body pulls the throwing hand into the release.

Good body position triggers the glove hand action with the lower body pulling the throwing hand into the release. The glove hand initiates the lower body to take the ball to the target with improved accuracy/location.

Getting Better Results

The Pro Pitching Institute teaches you the mental resilience needed to prompt a throw with uncanny regularity, or your instruction is free … No hard feelings.

Coach Skip Fast
“Command by Choice, Not by Chance”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Confidence Strategies for Pitchers

 

Strategies for Building Confidence

Building confidence as a pitcher is essential for both performance and mental resilience. One effective strategy is to establish a consistent pre-game routine. This routine should include physical warm-ups, mental visualization, and positive affirmations. By creating a predictable process before each game, pitchers can cultivate a sense of control and familiarity. This prepares the body for the physical demands of pitching and mentally primes the athlete to enter the game with a focused and confident mindset.

Set Achievable Goals

Rather than overwhelming themselves with the pressure to perform perfectly, pitchers should focus on smaller, incremental objectives. These may include improving specific pitches, maintaining composure under pressure, or effectively communicating with teammates. Celebrating these small victories reinforces a positive self-image and builds confidence over time. By breaking down larger ambitions into manageable tasks, pitchers can experience a series of successes that contribute to an overall sense of accomplishment.

Getting Better Results

Coaches and teammates provide constructive criticism that helps pitchers refine their techniques and strategies.

The Pro Pitching Institute teaches you the mental resilience needed to prompt a throw with uncanny regularity, or your instruction is free … No questions… No hassles… and no hard feelings.

Coach Skip Fast
“Command by Choice, Not by Chance”
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Overcoming Psychological Barriers for Elite Performance

Understanding and addressing these barriers is key to enhancing a pitcher's game and developing a healthier mindset.

Fear of Failure

Fear is exacerbated by the pressure to meet expectations from coaches, teammates, and fans, which can create a self-fulfilling prophecy of poor performance.

Fear leads to a lack of confidence, overthinking pitches, and hesitating to throw specific pitches.

Pitchers shift their mindset to focus on the process rather than the outcome.

Dwelling on Past Failures

Ruminating thought process where pitchers replay past mistakes, hindering their ability to perform in the present moment.

Pitchers become overly cautious or hesitant, negatively affecting their decision-making on the mound.

Pitchers need to develop mental resilience like visualization, mindfulness, and positive self-talk help them focus on the current game.

Fear of Being Judged/Evaluated

This fear leads directly to performance anxiety, often causing pitchers to underperform in critical, high-leverage situations.

Underperformance in critical situations due to anxiety over external judgment.

Pitchers train in simulated game-like conditions to build confidence and develop coping strategies.

Getting Better Results

This mental transformation not only fosters better performance on the mound but also contributes to a healthier mindset, allowing them to enjoy the game.

The Pro Pitching Institute teaches you the mental resilience needed to prompt a throw with uncanny regularity, or your instruction is free … No questions… No hassles… and no hard feelings.

Coach Skip Fast
“Command by Choice, Not by Chance”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

The Three Pillars of Mental Toughness

 

Mental resilience enables pitchers to manage unique pressures and challenges inherent to their position.

1. Pressure Management and Performance Under Stress

Resilience allows pitchers to view high-stakes pressure as a challenge rather than a threat.

This shift in perspective helps them approach difficult situations with confidence, improving their ability to execute pitches under stress (where every pitch counts).

2. Bouncing Back from Adversity

Unlike other positions, a pitcher's success is intensely scrutinized and closely tied to individual performance metrics, amplifying stress.

Mental resilience enables individuals to recover from poor performances or losses, maintain focus, and adapt to adversity, which in turn directly influences their performance and development..

3. Emotional Regulation and Composure

Resilience is closely linked to emotional regulation, which is crucial for maintaining composure in a competitive environment where emotions fluctuate rapidly (e.g., frustration after an error, euphoria after a successful outcome).

Emotional stability enhances decision-making and performance consistency, vital traits for any successful pitcher.

Getting Better Results

Mental resilience is the key to consistent performance, sustained development, and overall team cohesion.

The Pro Pitching Institute teaches you the mental resilience needed to prompt a throw with uncanny regularity, or your instruction is free … No questions… No hassles… and no hard feelings.

Coach Skip Fast
“Command by Choice, Not by Chance”
Pro Pitching Institute
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

A Guide to Balance, Power, and Precision

 

The Importance of a Balanced Stance

A balanced stance, with heels close together, is crucial for a stable base, balances your body, and your weight is evenly distributed between your feet.

A balanced posture enables the efficient transfer of energy from your lower body through your core and into your throwing arm, which is essential for generating power and improving pitch accuracy.

Maintaining a balanced stance minimizes stress on your joints and muscles, thereby reducing the risk of injury.

The Role of the Glove Hand

The glove hand guides the hips to rotate, transferring this energy into the upper body, and then fires the throwing hand.

The glove hand guides the ball toward the target, ensuring the pitch is sent directly to its intended location.

Getting Better Results

Ultimately, a balanced stance leads to more precise targeting and enhanced accuracy.

A balanced stance and proper use of the glove hand work together to significantly improve a pitcher's overall mechanics.

By making these techniques a part of every motion, you achieve more consistent accuracy and generate greater power in your pitches.

The Pro Pitching Institute teaches you the balance and glove hand movement needed to prompt a throw with uncanny regularity, or your instruction is free … No questions… No hassles… and no hard feelings.

Coach Skip Fast
“Command by Choice, Not by Chance”
Pro Pitching Institute
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

The Case for Level Shoulders

 

Tilted Shoulders

A pitcher tilted-shoulder delivery starts with their feet too far apart, causes their hips and shoulders to tilt, and throws their body off-balance.

When the body proprioceptively tries to correct this imbalance, the shoulders level out, and the ball is put in a less predictable target area.

The result is that the ball ends up somewhere between your release point and the spot where you want your ball to go, making it very difficult to consistently hit your target.

Level Shoulders

By contrast, a pitcher with level shoulders begins with their feet close together and keeps their hips and shoulders very level throughout their entire motion.

With the hips and shoulders staying level, the throwing arm consistently releases the ball from the same location on every pitch.

The glove arm helps the lower body fire, which, in turn, ensures the throwing hand comes through the same spot every time.

Level shoulders lead to great consistency in hitting the target and allow the pitcher to locate pitches with uncanny regularity.

Getting Better Results

A tilted-shouldered delivery, caused by a wide stance, forces the body to make a mid-motion correction, which sacrifices control and consistency.

The Pro Pitching Institute teaches you the shoulder position needed to prompt a throw with uncanny regularity, or your instruction is free … No questions… No hassles… and no hard feelings.

Coach Skip Fast
“Command by Choice, Not by Chance”
Pro Pitching Institute
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

                                                  Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

The Heel-to-Heel Guide to Pitching

 An excellent pitching motion is a heel-to-heel relationship, and the role of the glove hand is in maintaining balance and initiating the throwing action.

Heel-to-Heel

The core argument is that keeping the front heel close and even with the back heel at the start of the motion helps a pitcher stay balanced.

This "heel-to-heel relationship" keeps the front shoulder even with the front knee and prevents the pitcher's weight from shifting and their head from moving prematurely.

The result is that the stride land and the throwing arm can deliver the ball in a fluid, coordinated sequence.

The Glove Hand

When the pitcher's body is in balance, the glove hand's motion naturally tips the pitcher's weight, initiates the turn, and contributes to the entire throwing action.

The importance of the glove hand prompts the lower body to fire the throwing arm and this coordinated movement leads to consistent accuracy and increase speed.

Getting Better Results

In contrast, when the motion is out of balance, the pitcher lands their stride before the throwing arm is ready, leading to inconsistent and inaccurate throws, much like "throwing a dart at a dart board."

The Pro Pitching Institute teaches you the balance needed to prompt a throw with uncanny regularity, or your instruction is free … No questions… No hassles… and no hard feelings.

Coach Skip Fast
“Command by Choice, Not by Chance”
Pro Pitching Institute
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

                                                  Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

The Impact of Proper Shoulder Alignment

Shoulder alignment breaks down the role of alignment and the negative consequences of misalignment.

Proper Shoulder Alignment

When a pitcher's shoulders are properly aligned with the target, shoulder alignment creates a stable foundation for the entire pitching motion.

Shoulder alignment allows the lower body to effectively engage and generate power, which is transferred up through the kinetic chain, initiating the throwing motion.

Proper alignment allows the glove arm to move freely and correctly, acting as a guide for the throwing arm and contributing to a synchronized delivery.

The Consequences of Misaligned Shoulders

Conversely, when a pitcher's shoulders are out of line with the target, the mechanics of the delivery are compromised.

Misalignment prevents the lower body from properly engaging, forcing the pitcher to rely more on their arm for power, which leads to a less accurate and less powerful throw.

A misaligned upper body limits the glove arm's movement, hindering its ability to guide the throwing arm and impacting the overall fluidity of the delivery.

Getting Better Results

Proper shoulder alignment is essential for a pitcher to achieve an efficient and powerful delivery, leading to improved accuracy and control on the mound

The Pro Pitching Institute teaches you the shoulder alignment to prompt a throw with uncanny regularity, or your instruction is free … No questions… No hassles… and no hard feelings.

Coach Skip Fast
“Command by Choice, Not by Chance”
Pro Pitching Institute
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

                                                  Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Lower Body Engagement

Throwing a baseball contrasts the results of throwing with and without proper lower-body involvement.

Key Principles of Lower Body Engagement

Engaging the lower body transfers kinetic energy up the kinetic chain to the throwing arm, allowing the pitcher to throw the ball with greater velocity.

When the front knee is in front of the front hip, you improve control and accuracy and prevent relying solely on the arm, which leads to erratic throws.

The glove hand plays a crucial role in initiating the lower body's movement, propelling the throwing arm toward the target with consistency.

With Lower Body Engagement

Your Front knee is positioned in front of the front hip, which helps balance your weight over your back foot.

The glove hand activates the lower body, which then propels the throwing arm with improved power, stability, and accuracy.

Without Lower Body Engagement

The front knee is behind the front hip, and your weight is balanced over your back foot.

The throwing arm fires the ball independently, lacking power and accuracy.

Pitch Smart

Having your front knee in front of the front hip leads to superior velocity and command while significantly reducing the risk of throwing arm injury.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target via live or Zoom instruction, your instruction is FREE, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
“Proprioceptively Accurate Starting Positions”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute. 

How to Pitch with Your Entire Body, Not Just Your Arm

 

The Problem

"Foot Strike, Then Throw" is initiated by a forward weight shift after the front foot has already landed.

This common approach is inefficient and prone to injury because the starting position is flawed, the front knee is behind the front hip, and the kinetic chain is disrupted.

The body is fighting against gravity and balance, forcing the throwing arm to "muscle" the ball to the target.

This leads to a loss of control, reduced accuracy, and a higher risk of throwing arm injury.

The Solution

By contrast, "Foot Strike and Throw" is an efficient and powerful delivery where the foot strike and throwing action occur in unison.

The motion begins with a balanced weight position just in front of the back foot.

The glove hand initiates the stride, and the lower body initiates the throwing action.

This engages the kinetic chain, a simultaneous action of the foot strike, which allows for better timing and a more efficient transfer of momentum.

Pitch Smart

This organized, fluid motion results in a consistent and repeatable delivery, leading to superior velocity and command while significantly reducing the risk of throwing arm injury.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target via live or Zoom instruction, your instruction is FREE, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
“Proprioceptively Accurate Starting Positions”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Shoulder Alignment: The Key to Pitching Power, Accuracy, and Injury Prevention

Proper shoulder alignment is a conduit for transferring energy from the lower body to the throwing arm.

Direct Path to the Target

When a pitcher's shoulders are properly aligned, they create a direct, efficient path for the throwing arm to follow towards the target, reducing unnecessary movement and enhancing accuracy and command.

Energy Transfer

Proper shoulder rotation allows for the efficient transfer of energy.

As the hips rotate, this kinetic energy moves through the core and into the throwing arm.

Aligned shoulders ensure that none of this energy is lost, contributing to a pitcher's command and velocity.

Injury Prevention

Misaligned shoulders put undue stress on the shoulder joint, which leads to common pitching injuries such as shoulder impingement and rotator cuff tears.

Pitchers improve their shoulder alignment and overall pitching mechanics by strengthening the muscles around the shoulder joint, building a strong core, and improving their range of motion.

Connection to Lower Body

Shoulder alignment reinforces the kinetic chain, where every part of the body works in a coordinated sequence.

Pitch Smart

When the lower body and core are engaged correctly, the stage is set for proper shoulder alignment.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target via live or Zoom instruction, your instruction is FREE, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
“Proprioceptively Accurate Starting Positions”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Understanding the Concepts of Core Engagement

The lower body driving through the core and into the throwing hand optimizes pitching performance.

Balance is Critical

The position of the feet significantly influences the position of the front knee, overall balance, power, and accuracy.

The placement of the front knee in relation to the front hip is crucial for engaging the core.

Weight Distribution

Proper weight distribution is essential for core engagement.

As you stride, your weight shifts progressively to and through the core, creating a counterforce for upper body rotation, and is vital for generating torque and velocity.

Core Engagement

Legitimate core rotation occurs when the front knee stays in front of the front hip, and the lower body moves through the core to the throwing arm.

A strong core acts as the body's stabilizer, preventing excessive rotation, maintaining postural control, and generating power and accuracy.

Legitimate rotation efficiently transfers energy from the lower body to the upper body, maximizing force production and promoting better balance, power, and a healthier throwing arm.

Pitch Smart

When your glove hand sets up for your lower body to drive your throwing action, you deliver the ball precisely where you want it.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target via live or Zoom instruction, your instruction is FREE, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
“Proprioceptively Accurate Starting Positions”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Core Philosophy: Organized vs. Unorganized Motion

The critical difference between an "Organized Motion" and an "Unorganized Motion" highlights the importance of body coordination and efficiency.

Organized Motion

Legitimate Internal Rotation is characterized by a coordinated and efficient use of the body's natural balance mechanisms.

By initiating the movement correctly with the glove hand, you establish a precise kinetic chain that naturally leads to optimal hip rotation and arm acceleration.

The glove hand movement is fundamental in establishing an organized, balanced, and coordinated delivery, channeling energy effectively.

Unorganized Motion

False Internal Rotation is a compensatory mechanism where the body attempts to maintain balance in response to an incorrect movement initiation.

This often occurs when the throwing arm takes precedence over the lower body, resulting in an unorganized motion that leads to significant inefficiencies and increased unnecessary stress on the throwing arm.

Visualize This Coordination.

Imagine a dancer performing a pirouette.

Their body is in constant balance, fluidly shifting weight and adjusting posture to maintain equilibrium.

Your instruction strives for a similar level of coordination and control in your pitching motion.

Pitch Smart

When your glove hand sets up for your lower body to drive your throwing action, you deliver the ball precisely where you want it.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target via live or Zoom instruction, your instruction is FREE, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
“Proprioceptively Accurate Starting Positions”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Foot Position and Command: Mastering Your Pitching Delivery

 

Your motion is profoundly influenced by where your feet make contact with the ground.

Precise foot positioning ensures stability, serving as the foundational element that promotes excellent glove work and exceptional command.

Conversely, when your foot positioning is off, your entire body moves out of balance, your glove work becomes a reactionary scramble, and your command inevitably suffers.

Poor Foot Position

When your heels are too far apart, your motion immediately loses balance.

This imbalance renders your glove almost ineffective, as your body struggles to compensate, and your command will undoubtedly suffer.

Good Foot Position

However, when your heels are in line with your target and approximately one baseball width apart, your motion stays in optimal balance.

This specific alignment enables your glove hand to actively promote your motion, resulting in command with uncanny regularity.

This precise foot placement maximizes your body's internal sense of position, providing you with the consistent feeling necessary for efficient delivery.

Pitch Smart

When your foot position sets up for your lower body to drive your throwing action, your glove work becomes a powerful asset in delivering the ball precisely where you want it.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target via live or Zoom instruction, your instruction is FREE, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
“Proprioceptively Accurate Starting Positions”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
#ElitebyChoice 

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Uncanny Accuracy: Glove Hand Precision

 

Your internal feel enables precise timing and control, which optimizes rotational energy transfer and ultimately enhances accuracy and velocity.

Consequences of No Glove Hand Control

Where there’s no glove hand palm movement, the front foot is positioned poorly behind the hip, and the pitcher’s shoulders aren’t in line with his target.

In this case, the glove hand moves in a passive, uncontrolled manner and acts primarily to maintain balance.

The lack of control over the glove-hand palm leads to a larger target area and reduced accuracy.

Your Glove Hand Palm Flip Prompts Accuracy

A well-timed glove-hand palm flip with the palm facing the target allows for a smaller target area and greater accuracy.

Where the pitcher's body is in balance, the front foot is aligned with the back toes, the front toe is toward the target, and the glove hand naturally turns over palm toward the target.

By controlling the timing and direction of the glove-hand flip, pitchers achieve a smaller target area and significantly improve their accuracy.

Pitch Smart

The specific, seemingly small action of the glove-hand palm flip is a powerful indicator of proper pitching mechanics.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target via live or Zoom instruction, your instruction is FREE, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Proprioception, the Kinetic Chain, and Pitching Biomechanics

A proper balance, guided by accurate proprioceptive feedback, enables the kinetic chain to operate efficiently, resulting in optimal velocity and remarkable accuracy.

Proprioception: The Foundation of Balance and Accuracy

Fundamental to balance, proprioception is your "sixth sense" that allows your body to know its position, movement, and effort unconsciously.

You feel your center of gravity precisely over your back foot instep.

You sense the natural upward turn of its palm, guiding your throwing arm.

This means your brain is receiving clear signals about limb positions and muscle tension, allowing for smooth, coordinated movements.

Kinetic Chain: The Mechanism for Power and Direction

Driven by proprioception, the kinetic chain is the sequential transfer of energy from the ground up through the body.

Not just for balance, the glove arm plays a crucial role in the kinetic chain, counter-rotation, and directing energy.

As the lower body rotates, the glove arm's controlled movement across your body leads the shoulder and arm, creating elastic energy, and ensuring that the force generated up the kinetic chain is directed precisely towards the target.

Pitch Smart

The glove arm's role is indeed crucial in both maintaining balance, contributing to the efficient direction and transfer of energy through the chain.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target, via live or zoom instruction, your instruction is FREE, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute. 

Front Knee Forward: The Key to Pitching Command

The precise positioning of the front knee relative to the front hip has a significant impact on a pitcher's ability to maintain a coordinated motion, which in turn leads to highly accurate throws and improved command.

The Power of Proper Alignment

When your front knee is in front of your front hip, you create the optimal conditions for the rest of your body to contribute powerfully to the throw.

Sequential Engagement

This balanced landing allows you to correctly land your stride, effectively engage your lower body to power the throw, and create a more coordinated sequence of the energy flowing smoothly from the ground up.

Arm Efficiency

Because your lower body is properly controlling the movement and generating the primary force, your throwing arm naturally stays in front of your body. It enables you to deliver the ball with uncanny regularity and precision.

Trusting the Lower Body

Significantly missing the target is often a direct indication that your throwing arm went behind your body, signaling a breakdown in balance and sequence.

Pitch Smart

By ensuring the front knee stays in front of the hip, you're more likely to consistently hit your target and have a proper command over your pitches.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target, via live or zoom instruction, your instruction is FREE, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Foot Positioning and the Kinetic Chain

Foot positioning is a critical part of the kinetic chain for a consistent and accurate throw.

Improper Timing

Starting with your front foot too far forward disrupts the throwing rhythm and, to compensate, you use an exaggerated stride to shift your weight forward, which makes it challenging to locate the pitch.

Better Direction

A balanced stance, with your front foot even with your back foot, allows for an even weight distribution at the start of the throw, leading to better control over the ball's direction.

The Glove Hand Connection

When your front foot is balanced, your glove hand staying back creates tension, builds up potential energy, and allows for a smooth transfer of energy from the lower body through the core and into the throwing arm, resulting in a more controlled and accurate throw.

Proprioception

A balanced stance allows for smooth weight transfer and proper timing with the glove hand, which is a key part of the pitcher's feel for the motion and a direct result of proprioception, the body's ability to sense its position and movement.

Pitch Smart

Consistent mechanics, facilitated by proper front foot positioning, lead to throws that consistently hit your target.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target, via live or zoom instruction, your instruction is FREE, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Kinetic Chain and Proper Back Knee Positioning

The sequence of body segments and joints that work together to generate and transfer force signifies the importance of the kinetic chain.

Improper Back Knee Position Disrupts the Kinetic Chain

When your back knee is ahead of or directly over your back foot, your body tilts.

To regain balance, you change your head position as you lift your front leg, which disrupts the coordination between your upper and lower body.

You lose control of your glove work and lower body movement, and your lower body cannot contribute efficiently to the throw.

Proper Back Knee Position Optimizes the Kinetic Chain

With your back knee positioned slightly to the side of your back foot, at second base, your weight distribution remains centered, your body stays balanced, and you prevent tilting.

Your glove hand transfers energy from your lower body through your core and into your throwing arm.

This allows your lower body to pull your throwing arm into the throwing motion effectively, facilitates a proper back knee position, and leads to more accurate throws.

Pitch Smart

Consistent mechanics, facilitated by proper back knee positioning, lead to throws that consistently hit your target.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target, via live or zoom instruction, your instruction is FREE, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
“Unleashing Lower Body Power Through Proprioception”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Unleashing Your Pitching Power: The Kinetic Chain

 

Optimal Lower Body Loading

Positioning the "back knee behind your back foot" during the bent-knee stance creates a powerful coil, storing elastic potential energy, which is the very first and most potent link in the kinetic chain.

Efficient Linear Momentum Generation

The subsequent "leg movement" (the drive off the loaded back leg) efficiently translates this stored energy into linear momentum, propelling the body powerfully towards the target.

Hip-Driven Rotation

The front foot's positioning facilitates powerful and sequential hip rotation, ensures the larger, slower segments initiate the rotational transfer of energy.

Glove Arm as an Accelerator

The lower body movement prompts your glove arm to initiate the throwing action, creating a counter-rotation that rapidly accelerates the torso and efficiently transfers energy to the throwing arm.

Synergistic Energy Transfer

Linear momentum from the stride, rotational energy from the hips and core, all combine to maximize the energy transferred to the throwing arm, creating a powerful "whip."

Pitch Smart

The highly efficient and synchronized energy transfer achieved by this footwork, forces are consistently channeled directly towards the target and predictability leads to "uncanny regularity" in ball location.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target, via live or zoom instruction, your instruction is FREE, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
“Unleashing Lower Body Power Through Proprioception”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Your Glove Hand: The Proprioceptive Key to Pitching Accuracy

The critical role of proper glove hand movement in achieving accurate throws is linked directly to proprioception.

Awareness and Control

Your glove hand is constantly receiving information from the muscles, tendons, and joints of your glove arm allowing for precise position, movement, and the tension without your mind having to look for it.

Guiding Mechanism

Your brain uses the proprioceptive input from the glove arm to make fine-tuned adjustments, ensuring it moves in a coordinated way to lead the throwing arm.

Without this proprioceptive awareness, the glove hand's movement would be erratic and ineffective as a guide.

Feeling the Connection

Good pitchers feel the connection between their glove hand and throwing hand and this feel is proprioceptive; it's the internal sense of how the two arms are working together in sync.

Pitch Smart

Proper glove hand movement is not just an aesthetic part of pitching; it relies heavily on proprioception.

Your glove arm acts as an initiator of the throwing sequence, a guide for the throwing arm, and a mechanism for transferring and directing energy generated by the lower body and core towards the target.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target via live or zoom instruction, your instruction is FREE, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
“Unleashing Lower Body Power Through Proprioception”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

The Archer's Secret to a Pitcher's Bullseye

 Archery is a fantastic and easily understandable way to explain the critical roles of proprioception and the kinetic chain in achieving consistent pitching accuracy.

Stance & Nocking the Arrow

Just as a consistent nocking of the arrow ensures a predictable release, a stable stance and controlled leg lift set the stage for a consistent pitching motion.

While keeping the front knee in front of the front hip, the pitcher creates a solid foundation for their balance and weight distribution.

Drawing & Releasing

The energy generated in the legs and hips (drawing the bow) is transferred through the core and torso to the arm (releasing the arrow).

The timing and coordination between the glove work and the lower body is crucial for efficient energy transfer and accuracy.

Precise Aim

When the front knee finishes ahead of the front hip, a more complete and efficient transfer of energy through the lower body and into the throwing motion allows the pitcher to direct their power more accurately towards the target.

Control & Focus

Through repetition, the pitching motion becomes more ingrained in the pitcher's muscle memory, allowing them to execute it with less conscious effort, like the archer's instinctive release.

Pitch Smart

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target regularly, your instruction is free, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
“Unleashing Lower Body Power Through Proprioception”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Archery Simplifies Pitching

 

An archer effectively simplifies and explains complex pitching mechanics.

Stance & Nocking the Arrow

Keeping the front knee in front of the front hip during the front leg lift is compared to nocking the arrow, keeping the body balanced, and setting up the power.

Front Knee Ahead of Hip Leading to Accuracy

Relating to pitching, the front knee finishes ahead of the front hip, the glove work effectively engages the lower body, and the ball hits the target.

Drawing & Releasing

Analogous to drawing the bowstring using back muscles, glove work initiates the power from the lower body, which in turn drives the throwing arm.

Front Knee Position Directs the Glove Work and Power Transfer

Like an archer's instinctive release, the front knee ahead of the front hip directs the glove work to initiate hip rotation and power transfer, leading to a more automatic and controlled throwing motion.

Unbalanced & Inefficient

Any deviation from proper mechanics is compared to an unbalanced archery stance, throwing off aim and making it difficult to execute the initial steps correctly.

Pitch Smart

An archer hitting the target consistently explains the importance of stance, glove work, lower body engagement, and accuracy.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target regularly, your instruction is free, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
“Unleashing Lower Body Power Through Proprioception”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

The Key to Pitching Command and Glove Work

To improve command and glove work, a foot distance of one baseball width frees the throwing arm to focus on accuracy, enabling the glove hand to contribute effectively to the overall motion.

Foot Distance and Weight Distribution

A foot distance greater than one baseball width causes the pitcher's weight to be primarily on the back foot.

Impact on Throwing Arm Engagement

The throwing motion then involves the throwing arm initiating the weight transfer from the back foot to the front foot and becoming less focused on command.

Glove Work and the Kinetic Chain

The glove arm reacts to the throwing shoulder's movement and, as the throwing arm shoulder moves towards the target, the glove hand path follows, becoming a secondary and less effective movement.

Ineffective Glove Work

When glove work is a reaction to the throwing arm's balance efforts, it does not actively contribute to stability, direction, or a clean transfer of energy throughout the pitching motion.

Pitch Smart

A wider-than-ideal foot stance compromises pitching command and glove work because it forces the throwing arm to prioritize balance over its primary function of delivering the ball accurately.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target regularly, your instruction is free, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
“Unleashing Lower Body Power Through Proprioception”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Maintaining Balance and Producing Location

 

A pitcher's starting position influences their proprioceptive awareness and the subsequent sequencing of their kinetic chain.

Your Foot Position

The pitcher setting their feet one baseball width apart sets the foundation upon which their entire delivery is built. Correct footwork is essential for a smooth and efficient motion.

When the feet are properly aligned, the glove hand can work effectively, contributing to balance and leading to better command of the pitch.

Your Front Foot Lift

The front knee stays in front of the front shoulder, the front heel lines up with the back toes, and the front toes point toward the target.

Your Glove Work and Throwing Action

The glove work causes the lower body to open and land the stride, highlighting the pitching motion's integrated nature, where the upper body (glove arm) helps drive the lower body movement.

The movement initiated by the glove hand helps to transfer the power generated by the lower body, through the core, and into the throwing arm.

Pitch Smart

Proper positioning contributes to a stable base, which supports the glove hand's role in maintaining balance and encourages velocity and accuracy.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target regularly, your instruction is free, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
“Proprioception and Your Kinetic Chain Unleashes Your Lower Body”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Your Kinetic Chain And Your Starting Position

 

A pitcher's starting position influences their proprioceptive awareness and the subsequent sequencing of their kinetic chain.

Proprioception and Starting Position

When the front leg is behind the hip, the leg is forced to initiate movement, suggesting a lack of proactive proprioceptive control.

The hand is trying to compensate for the body being out of sync, rather than being an integral part of a coordinated movement initiated from a balanced base.

Your Kinetic Chain and Starting Position

A balanced starting position (front leg even with the front hip) allows for a more efficient transfer of energy.

The glove hand then engages the core and lower body in a more synchronized way, leading to a more powerful and controlled throw.

Its movement helps to create the forward motion in a controlled way, allowing the throwing hand to follow through with consistent speed and release.

The glove hand's action, when timed correctly, helps to orchestrate the entire body's movement.

Pitch Smart

A balanced starting point allows for a more natural and coordinated movement, initiated by the glove hand, leading to better balance, command, and consistent pitch delivery.

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target regularly, your instruction is free, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
“Proprioception and Your Kinetic Chain Unleashes Your Lower Body”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Stride Length and Shoulder Alignment

 

This is an excellent explanation of how stride length and glove-hand action influence shoulder alignment, ultimately affecting pitching accuracy.

Stride Length and Shoulder Alignment

Optimal stride length: Allows the shoulders to be aligned at foot strike, creating a direct line towards the target for efficient energy transfer.

Too long a stride: Leads to an "open" shoulder position (front shoulder pulled away from the target), often due to the body over-rotating to compensate for the excessive forward momentum.

Too short a stride: Leads to a "closed" shoulder position (front shoulder still pointing towards the catcher), often because the lower body hasn't fully engaged and rotated.

Proprioception's Role

Proprioception, the pitcher's sense of their body's position and movement, is crucial for developing and maintaining the correct stride length. Through practice and feedback, the pitcher learns the "feel" of a stride that allows for optimal shoulder alignment, their weight is distributed correctly, and their body is in a balanced position to rotate effectively.

Misaligned shoulders at foot strike disrupt the kinetic chain. The energy generated by the lower body cannot be efficiently transferred through a misaligned torso, leading to decreased power and inaccurate throws as the arm tries to compensate.

Pitch Smart

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target regularly, your instruction is free, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
“Beyond Arm Strength: Unleashing Lower Body Power Through Proprioception”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Unlock Fastball Command: Focus on Your Front Leg Lift

Without A Balanced Front Leg Lift

Your foot plant is gravity-driven.

This suggests a lack of control over the intentional placement of the feet.

When the ball is delivered, it lands within your target area, but not consistently into your target with the desired precision.

With A Balanced Front Leg Lift

Fastball command originates from a combination of a balanced front leg lift.

Balanced front leg lift is the starting point, providing stability and control for the subsequent movements.

A well-managed glove-hand action contributes to balance, direction, and initiating the kinetic chain.

A well-timed throwing arm trigger synchronizes the upper body's throwing motion with the power generated by the lower body drive.

The throwing arm action is a secondary function to this foundational balance.

Fastball Command

The initial stages of the pitching motion, particularly the balance achieved during the front leg lift, are the primary determinants of fastball command.

A stable, controlled lift sets the stage for more precise and repeatable delivery.

In contrast, an imbalanced lift leads to a less controlled, gravity-dependent foot plant and consequently, less accurate pitches.

Pitch Smart

We're so confident in our instructions that, if we can't help you get the ball to your target regularly, your instruction is free, no questions asked.

Coach Skip Fast
Pro Pitching Institute
“Beyond Arm Strength: Unleashing Lower Body Power Through Proprioception”
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.