Showing posts with label #baseball #command #coaching #velocity #coaching #pro pitching institute #ElitebyChoice #fastball pitch location. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #baseball #command #coaching #velocity #coaching #pro pitching institute #ElitebyChoice #fastball pitch location. Show all posts

Wednesday, January 22, 2025

The Misconception Of Arm Dominance In Command

 

By focusing on a strong foundation and allowing the lower body to drive the pitch, pitchers develop consistent command and improve their overall effectiveness.

Complicated Command

Many pitchers overthink their arm action, believing it solely dictates where the ball goes.

This over-reliance on the arm leads to inconsistent release points and poor command.

The throwing arm plays a role, but it's more of a facilitator than the primary driver of location.

The Importance Of A Strong Foundation

Starting with the weight over the back foot allows for a smooth and powerful leg lift without compromising balance.

A clean and controlled glove hand movement sets the stage for the rest of the motion.

The lower body rotates, generates the power, and directs the pitch toward the target.

The arm action then follows naturally, executing the pitch with the power generated by the lower body.

Simple Command

Actual command originates from a stable lower body and a coordinated sequence of movements.

The throwing arm is a tool to deliver the pitch, not the sole determinant of its location.

Our Guarantee

By focusing on a strong foundation and allowing the lower body to drive the pitch, pitchers develop consistent command and improve their overall effectiveness.

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

Coach Skip Fast
“Pitchers: Get the Lower Body Involved©
Pro Pitching Institute
https://propitchinginginstitute.com
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

Wide Feet Cause Issues

Keeping your feet closer together improves your mechanics, leading to better control, accuracy, and overall performance.

 The Problem

When you stand with your feet too far apart, it leads to several problems.

Your instinct places your front knee behind the front hip.

Your glove hand is used for balance and nothing else.

Due to a less stable base and inconsistent release point, your accuracy suffers.

The Solution

The solution involves bringing the feet closer together.

Your instincts align your front knee with the front hip and promote better lower body drive.

Your glove hand involves itself with improving the location.

A more stable base and consistent release point leads to better accuracy and control.

Your Conclusion

Proper foot placement is essential in pitching.

Keeping your feet closer together improves your mechanics, leading to better control, accuracy, and overall performance.

Our Guarantee

Developing the proper foot position significantly improves your pitching mechanics and achieves tremendous success on the mound.

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

Coach Skip Fast
“Pitchers: Get the Lower Body Involved©
Pro Pitching Institute
https://propitchinginginstitute.com/lower-body/
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Wednesday, January 1, 2025

Front Shoulders Prompt Your Stride

 

By focusing on developing a shoulder-dominant motion, you significantly improve your pitching mechanics and achieve greater success on the mound.

The front shoulder initiates the forward movement of your lower body (stride).

Pulls Your Body Towards The Plate

When the shoulders drive the movement, it creates a more consistent, repeatable throwing motion which leads to better command and control of your pitches.

By engaging the core and upper body first, you generate more power and velocity on your pitches.

A shoulder-dominant motion distributes the forces of pitching more evenly, reducing the stress on your elbow and shoulder joints.

A Balanced Start

Starting with your weight slightly more on your back leg creates a more powerful coil in your body.

Glove Hand Initiation

Your glove hand initiates the movement.

As you bring your glove hand towards the plate, it triggers your front shoulder to start moving forward.

The movement of your front shoulder then causes your lower body to stride forward.

Key Considerations

Your front shoulder starts moving forward slightly before your stride leg steps.

As your front shoulder moves forward, your hips and torso powerfully rotate, generates torque, and adds significant power to your pitch.

Our Guarantee

By focusing on developing a shoulder-dominant motion, you significantly improve your pitching mechanics and achieve greater success on the mound.

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

Coach Skip Fast
“Pitchers: Get the Lower Body Involved©
Pro Pitching Institute
https://propitchinginginstitute.com/lower-body/
856-524-3248
skip@propitchinginstitute.com
#ElitebyChoice

Copyright © 2025, Pro Pitching Institute.

Wednesday, December 25, 2024

Body Balance In Pitching: Throwing Action And Pitch Location

 

True pitching power and accuracy originate from a balanced and grounded position, not solely from a forceful stride.

Weight in Front

Starting with your weight in front of your back foot disrupts your balance.

You rely heavily on your stride to initiate the throw, which leads to inconsistent mechanics and poor pitch location.

Balanced Starting Position

Begin with your weight slightly before your back foot and maintain a balanced posture.

A simple lift of your front leg triggers the throwing motion naturally and smoothly.

This balanced starting position promotes a more fluid and effortless throwing action and improves accuracy and control.

Takeaways

A balanced starting position is the foundation for a successful pitch.

Initiated by a simple lift of the front leg, the throwing motion feels natural and effortless when properly balanced.

A balanced approach leads to more consistent mechanics and improved pitch location.

Our Guarantee

True pitching power and accuracy originate from a balanced and grounded position, not solely from a forceful stride.

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

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

Wednesday, December 18, 2024

Understanding the Stride and Glove Hand in Pitching

 

The stride smoothly transitions into the delivery phase, with the glove hand guiding the arm and body towards the target.

Stride and …

The purpose of the stride is primarily for balance and momentum.

The stride maintains balance and aligns the body for delivery, generates power, and propels the pitcher toward the plate.

.. The Glove Hand

The glove hand directs the body's movement and guides the pitch.

The glove hand maintains balance and control while guiding the pitching arm and directing the ball toward the target.

A precise glove hand movement helps the pitcher achieve better accuracy and control, reducing the size of the target area.

The Ideal Synergy

The stride smoothly transitions into the delivery phase, with the glove hand guiding the arm and body toward the target.

The momentum generated by the stride efficiently transfers into the pitch, maximizing velocity and accuracy.

Repeatable mechanics, particularly in the glove hand's role, are crucial for consistent results.

Understanding these concepts and addressing potential issues optimizes mechanics and improves overall performance.

Our Guarantee

By practicing these techniques, you improve your accuracy and power.

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

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

Copyright © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute.

Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Weight Distribution: The Secret to Consistent Throws

 

If you've been struggling to hit your target regularly, the culprit might be your weight distribution.

If you've been struggling to hit your target regularly, the culprit might be your weight distribution. Understanding and correcting your weight placement significantly improves your accuracy and power.

The Problem: Weight in Front

When your weight shifts forward, your throwing arm is forced to work harder to compensate for the imbalance.

Your arm may struggle to find the target, resulting in missed throws. Your weight forward position limits your power generation, leading to weaker throws. Overcompensating with your arm puts unnecessary strain on your shoulder and elbow.

The Solution: Weight on Your Back Leg

The key to consistent and powerful throws is to center your weight between your feet, with a slight emphasis on your back leg. This balanced position allows your throwing arm to work efficiently and effectively.

Start with a balanced stance, feet shoulder-width apart. As you begin your throwing motion, keep your weight back onto your back leg.

Use your lower body to generate power, driving your weight forward through your front leg as you release the ball. Finish your throw with a smooth follow-through, ensuring your weight remains balanced.

Our Guarantee

By practicing these techniques, you improve your accuracy and power.

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

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

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Mastering Glove Hand Activity for Unmatched Pitching Control

 

The glove hand plays a vital role in initiating the pitching motion, maintaining balance, and transferring energy to the throwing arm.

A well-coordinated glove hand movement is crucial for a smooth and efficient pitching delivery.

The glove hand plays a vital role in initiating the pitching motion, maintaining balance, and transferring energy to the throwing arm.

The Pitfalls of Passive Glove Hand Activity

A passive glove hand hinders energy transfer from your lower body to your upper body, resulting in weaker pitches.

A passive glove hand leads to variations in your release point, affecting accuracy and control.

A passive glove hand disrupts your balance, making it difficult to maintain control of your body and the pitch.

Achieving Optimal Glove Hand Activity

To achieve optimal glove-hand activity, the front leg lift must maintain balance, the throwing hand faces second, and the glove hand faces home.

The next movement rotates the glove hand palm from facing the target with the palm facing the target to the palm facing the pitcher’s body.

The action promotes a stride and throwing action to bring the ball to the target with uncanny regularity.

Our Guarantee

An active, coordinated glove hand empowers you to deliver powerful, accurate, consistent pitches.

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

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

                                                  Copyright © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute.

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

The Importance of Front Foot Position

The position of your front foot during your pitching delivery plays a crucial role in generating power, accuracy, and control.

The position of your front foot during your pitching delivery plays a crucial role in generating power, accuracy, and control.

A Well-Positioned Front Foot

Proper foot placement allows for a smooth transfer of energy from the lower body to the upper body, resulting in increased power and velocity.

A balanced stance provides a solid foundation for pitching motion, improving accuracy and control.

A consistent foot placement helps you establish a repeatable release point, increasing accuracy.

The Pitfalls of Improper Front Foot Placement

When your front foot goes behind your hip in the starting position, you can lose balance and power. Your weight shifts backward, making generating momentum and delivering accurate pitches difficult.

While this position may seem balanced, it can limit your ability to effectively generate power and rotate your hips. It can also lead to a slower and less powerful delivery.

Our Guarantee

A well-positioned front foot will empower you to deliver powerful, accurate, consistent pitches.

You can significantly improve your pitching performance by understanding the importance of front foot placement and following the guidelines provided in the Pro Pitching Institute's Programs.

We're so confident in our instructions that we offer a unique guarantee: if we can't help you properly place your front foot, your instruction is free, no questions asked.

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

                                                  Copyright © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute.

Thursday, November 21, 2024

Break Free from "Feeling" Your Pitch

Do you find yourself "feeling" your way through your delivery, hoping for the best? If so, it's time to break free from this unreliable approach and embrace a more precise and effective method.

Do you find yourself "feeling" your way through your delivery, hoping for the best? If so, it's time to break free from this unreliable approach and embrace a more precise and effective method.

The Power of Mechanics

"Feeling" your pitch often leads to inconsistency and frustration. When you rely on intuition rather than mechanics, your delivery becomes unpredictable, and you'll struggle to maintain a high level of performance consistently.

True pitching mechanics are about understanding and executing the correct movements. It's not about "feeling" your way through the motion; it's about following a proven process that delivers results.

Your lower body plays a critical role in generating power and accuracy. When your lower body is engaged correctly, it helps you transfer energy efficiently and consistently A common mistake is to land your front foot and then start your throwing motion. This limited movement restricts your power and control.

The Pro Pitching Institute's Approach

At the Pro Pitching Institute, we teach a proven pitching process that focuses on proper mechanics and body awareness. Our instruction is designed to help you correct movements and sequences to ensure a repeatable delivery, harness the power of your lower body to generate more velocity and accuracy and develop the ability to hit your target with precision and consistency.

Our Guarantee

We're so confident in our instructions that we offer a unique guarantee: if we can't help you turn your pitching command from a "feeling" into an expectation, your instruction is free. No questions asked.

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

                                                  Copyright © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute.

Wednesday, November 13, 2024

Mastering the Fundamentals: Back Knee, Front Heel, and Glove Hand Position

 

A solid base, proper alignment, and efficient energy transfer are key to delivering accurate and powerful pitches.

A strong foundation is essential for any building; the same principle applies to pitching. A solid base, proper alignment, and efficient energy transfer are crucial to delivering accurate and robust pitches.

The Importance of Proper Positioning

To create a strong base, your back knee starts slightly behind your back foot. As you initiate your stride, your weight should shift towards your back foot, allowing for a powerful drive forward.

Your glove hand palm is facing towards your body. This position helps maintain balance and allows for a smooth energy transfer from your lower body to your upper body.

Your front heel is relatively close to your back heel, creating a compact and powerful stance. Your front foot is angled slightly towards your target, providing a stable platform for your delivery.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

You may lose power and accuracy if you shift your weight too early.

A long stride leads to imbalance and decreased control.

An incorrect glove hand position hinders your ability to generate power and maintain balance.

Let's hear from you!

Coach Skip Fast provides personalized instruction and helps you refine your technique.

By following these tips and seeking guidance from Coach Skip Fast, you elevate your pitching and achieve your full potential.

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

                                                  Copyright © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute.

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

Velocity vs. Command: The Keys to Pitching Success

 

A strong, balanced starting position is the foundation of effective pitching and sets the stage for a powerful and accurate delivery.

Understanding Velocity and Command

Two critical components of a successful pitcher's arsenal are velocity and command. While velocity often gets the headlines, command is equally important, if not more so.

Velocity: The Raw Power

Velocity, simply put, is the speed at which a pitch is delivered. A high-travel fastball can be intimidating to hitters, making it difficult to react quickly. However, raw velocity alone isn't enough to dominate hitters.

Command: The Art of Control

Command is the ability to consistently throw pitches to specific locations. It's the art of hitting your spots, whether a low and away fastball or a knee-buckling curveball. A pitcher with excellent command can manipulate the strike zone, keep hitters off balance, and induce weak contact.

The Synergy Between Velocity and Command

While velocity and command are distinct elements, they work synergistically to create an effective pitching performance. A pitcher with high velocity and excellent command is a force to be reckoned with.

A fastball with pinpoint accuracy is much more dangerous than one without control. A pitcher with command can mix up their pitches effectively, keeping hitters guessing.

The Mechanics of Velocity and Command

To generate velocity and command, pitchers focus on their lower body, which is the engine room of their delivery. By generating power from the legs and hips, pitchers can transfer energy to their upper body and arm.

A strong core helps maintain balance and stability, allowing pitchers to deliver pitches with accuracy and power. A smooth, efficient arm action is essential for velocity and command.

Let's hear from you!

By following these tips and seeking guidance from Coach Skip Fast, you can elevate your pitching game and achieve your full potential.

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

                                                  Copyright © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute.

Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Mastering the Art of Balance: A Pitcher's Secret Weapon

A strong, balanced starting position is the foundation of effective pitching and sets the stage for a powerful and accurate delivery.

 A strong, balanced starting position is the foundation of effective pitching and sets the stage for a powerful and accurate delivery.

Why Balance Matters

A balanced stance allows for optimal transfer of energy from the lower body to the upper body, resulting in increased velocity.

Good balance leads to consistent mechanics, which translates to better control and accuracy.

A balanced delivery reduces stress on the joints and muscles, minimizing the risk of injuries.

The Ideal Starting Position

Keep your weight primarily on your back foot, ensuring a strong base.

Position your front knee slightly in front of your front hip to promote forward momentum.

Place your glove hand near your back hip, ready to initiate the lower body rotation.

The "Palm-to-Palm" Action: A Key to Success

By bringing your throwing hand palm-to-palm with your glove hand, you initiate a powerful and coordinated delivery. This action ensures that your lower body drives your upper body, maximizing velocity and accuracy.

Practice Makes Perfect

To master the art of balance, consistent practice is key. Incorporate drills like wall ball and shadow pitching into your training routine to refine your mechanics. Remember, every great pitcher started somewhere. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve your pitching goals.

Let's hear from you!

By following these tips and seeking guidance from qualified coaches, you can elevate your pitching game and achieve your full potential.

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

                                                  Copyright © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute.

Wednesday, October 23, 2024

Identifying Flaws in Technique

 

Identifying flaws in technique is a crucial step for any struggling pitcher seeking to enhance their performance on the mound.

Analyzing Your Pitching Mechanics

(An excerpt from our best-selling “Fast-Track Strategies for Overcoming Pitching Challenges.”)

Identifying Flaws in Technique

Identifying flaws in technique is a crucial step for any struggling pitcher seeking to enhance their performance on the mound. Many pitchers may not realize that subtle imperfections in their mechanics can significantly impact their effectiveness. First, it is essential to analyze the basic components of the pitching motion, including grip, stance, windup, delivery, and follow-through. Each element plays a vital role in the overall execution of a pitch. By breaking down these components, pitchers can pinpoint specific areas requiring adjustment or improvement.

One common flaw pitcher often encounter is inconsistent grip on the ball. A proper grip holds the ball like a pet bird and ensures that the pitcher controls the pitch's movement and velocity. A grip that is too tight or too loose can lead to erratic throws. Therefore, it is beneficial for pitchers to regularly assess their grip and make minor adjustments as needed.

Another area to examine is the pitcher's stance and windup. A balanced stance sets the foundation for a successful pitch. If a pitcher stands too rigidly or shifts their weight improperly, it can lead to a loss of power and control. Coaches should encourage pitchers to focus on their body alignment and ensure that their feet are shoulder-width apart, with the weight evenly distributed. The windup should be fluid and controlled.

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

                                                  Copyright © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute.

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

Strategies for Building Confidence

 

Building confidence as a pitcher is essential for both performance and mental resilience.

Understanding the Pitcher's Mindset

(An excerpt from our best-selling “BRAND NEW Fast-Track Strategies for Overcoming Pitching Challenges.”)

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.

Another crucial strategy is to set achievable goals. Rather than overwhelming oneself with the pressure of perfect performances, 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.

Feedback plays a significant role in confidence building. Coaches and teammates provide constructive criticism that helps pitchers refine their techniques and strategies. Effective communication is essential in this process; pitchers should seek feedback regularly and view it as an opportunity for growth rather than a personal critique. Additionally, surrounding oneself with supportive teammates creates a positive environment where encouragement and constructive dialogue flourish, further boosting confidence...

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

                                                  Copyright © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute.

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

Common Psychological Barriers

 

Common psychological barriers significantly impact a pitcher's performance on the mound.

Understanding the Pitcher's Mindset

(An excerpt from our best-selling “NEW Fast-Track Strategies for Overcoming Pitching Challenges.”)

Common Psychological Barriers

Common psychological barriers significantly impact a pitcher's performance on the mound. These barriers often stem from the pressure to perform, fear of failure, and the inherent nature of the sport. Understanding these psychological hurdles is crucial for pitchers looking to enhance their game. By recognizing and addressing these barriers, pitchers can develop strategies to overcome them and improve their performance.

One of the most prevalent psychological barriers is the fear of failure. Many pitchers experience anxiety about making mistakes, leading to a lack of confidence. This fear may manifest in various ways, such as overthinking pitches or hesitating to throw specific pitches. The pressure to meet expectations from coaches, teammates, and fans can exacerbate this fear, leading to a self-fulfilling prophecy where the anticipation of failure contributes to poor performance. Overcoming this barrier requires a shift in mindset, where pitchers focus on the process rather than the outcome and embrace mistakes as learning opportunities.

Another common barrier is the tendency to dwell on past failures. This ruminating thought process can hinder a pitcher's ability to perform in the present moment. When pitchers replay past mistakes in their minds, they may become overly cautious or hesitant, affecting their decision-making on the mound. To combat this, pitchers need to develop mental resilience. Techniques such as visualization, mindfulness, and positive self-talk can help pitchers focus on the current game, rather than getting trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts about previous performances.

Expecting to throw strikes and deliver strong performances every outing can lead to stress and anxiety. This pressure can result in pitchers tightening up, which affects their mechanics and, ultimately, their performance. To manage this pressure, pitchers should learn to set realistic and attainable goals. By focusing on incremental improvements rather than perfection, pitchers can alleviate some of their psychological weight and create a more conducive environment for success.

The fear of being judged or evaluated can lead to performance anxiety, causing pitchers to underperform in critical situations. To mitigate this, pitchers should practice under pressure in training situations that simulate game-like conditions. By familiarizing themselves with high-pressure scenarios, they can build confidence and develop coping strategies to manage anxiety during games. Recognizing that external factors are beyond their control helps pitchers regain focus on their performance and preparation.

In conclusion, understanding and addressing common psychological barriers is essential for struggling pitchers aiming to improve their game. Pitchers cultivate a more positive mental approach by confronting fears, letting go of past mistakes, managing pressure, and preparing for external evaluations. This transformation fosters better performance on the mound and contributes to a healthier mindset, allowing pitchers to enjoy the game they love while striving for excellence.

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

                                                  Copyright © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute.

Wednesday, October 2, 2024

Understanding the Pitcher's Mindset

One of the primary components of mental resilience is the capacity to manage pressure.

(An excerpt from our best-selling “New Fast-Track Strategies for Overcoming Pitching Challenges.”)

The Importance of Mental Resilience

One of the primary components of mental resilience is the capacity to manage pressure. Pitchers frequently find themselves in high-stakes situations where every pitch counts. The pressure to perform can be overwhelming, leading to self-doubt and anxiety. By developing mental resilience, pitchers can learn to view pressure as a challenge rather than a threat. This shift in perspective enables them to approach difficult situations confidently, subsequently improving their ability to execute pitches under stress.

Mental resilience is a crucial asset for pitchers who face unique challenges both on and off the field. The ability to bounce back from setbacks, such as a poor outing or a devastating loss, directly influences a pitcher’s performance and overall development. Unlike other positions in baseball, pitchers often experience intense scrutiny; their success is tied closely to individual performance metrics, which can amplify stress and anxiety. Cultivating mental resilience allows pitchers to maintain focus, adapt to adversity, and enhance their game.

Additionally, mental resilience fosters a growth mindset, which is vital for continuous improvement. Struggling pitchers often face repeated failures, whether a string of poor performances or an inability to master a specific pitch. A resilient mindset encourages pitchers to view these setbacks as learning opportunities rather than definitive judgments of their abilities. This perspective helps them focus on the improvement process and seek constructive feedback from coaches and teammates, ultimately leading to a more effective development trajectory.

Moreover, mental resilience is linked to emotional regulation, which is essential for maintaining composure during games. Emotions can fluctuate rapidly in baseball's competitive atmosphere. A single error can lead to frustration, while a successful strikeout can produce euphoria. Resilient pitchers learn techniques to manage their emotional responses, allowing them to remain level-headed regardless of the game’s circumstances. This emotional stability enhances decision-making and performance consistency, essential traits for any successful pitcher.

Finally, building mental resilience creates a support network among teammates and coaches. Struggling pitchers often feel isolated in their challenges, but resilience encourages open communication and collaboration. By sharing experiences and strategies for overcoming adversity, pitchers can foster camaraderie and mutual support within the team. This collective resilience improves individual performance and strengthens team dynamics, ultimately contributing to a more cohesive and successful unit on the field.

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

                                                  Copyright © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute.

Wednesday, September 25, 2024

Mastering Balance and Pitching Mechanics

Explore the importance of maintaining a balanced stance with your heels close together for effective pitching and the role of the glove hand in guiding the ball toward the target.

Explore the importance of maintaining a balanced stance with your heels close together for effective pitching and the role of the glove hand in guiding the ball toward the target.

A balanced stance is fundamental for effective pitching.

Keeping your heels close together to maintain a stable base and ensure your weight is evenly distributed between both feet keeps your body balanced.

By keeping your body evenly distributed, you use your glove hand to trigger your lower body involvement and send the pitch directly to your target.

Benefits of Balanced Stance

Balanced mechanics enable efficient power and enhance pitch accuracy by transferring energy from your lower body through your core to your throwing arm.

A balanced stance minimizes stress on your joints and muscles and reduces the risk of injury.

These key elements significantly improve your pitching mechanics, achieve consistent accuracy, and produce power.

Ultimately, a balanced stance allows for more precise targeting and improved accuracy.

Getting Your Best Results

The Pro Pitching Institute teaches you to always keep your feet close together, 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 © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute. 

Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Mastering the Balanced Pitch: A Step-by-Step Guide

The importance of maintaining a balanced stance with your weight over your back foot throughout the pitching motion produces an accurate delivery.

Achieving consistent accuracy in pitching requires a well-balanced and coordinated motion.

The importance of maintaining a balanced stance with your weight over your back foot throughout the pitching motion produces an accurate delivery.

Starting Position

To maintain your weight primarily over your back foot, ensure your back foot is slightly to the second base side of your back foot, your front foot is close to your back foot, and your front foot points toward the target.

Preparation Phase

Keep your front knee slightly in front of your front hip and separate your hands to create tension in your core.

Delivery Phase

As your glove hand moves forward, it naturally shifts your weight towards the target.

The natural transfer of weight and momentum propels your throwing arm towards the target.

Key Takeaways

Maintaining your weight over your back foot is essential for stability and control.

The glove hand plays a crucial role in initiating the throwing motion and transferring power.

A well-balanced and coordinated motion leads to consistent accuracy.

Getting Your Best Results

The Pro Pitching Institute teaches you the balance to prompt a throw right to your target, 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 © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute. 

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

Organized Motions – Balance

Starting “in balance” means you send your ball to your target with uncanny regularity, and your motion never changes!

Finding your target with uncanny regularity comes from being “in balance” or starting your motion with your Front Knee in front of your Front Hip.

Your Body is Always Getting “In Balance”

The instant you’re “out of balance” becomes the instant your Body makes adjustments.

What should happen.

1.   Your Glove Arm triggers your Lower Body.

2.   Your Throwing Action is part of your entire motion.

3.   Your Glove Arm needs to move before your Front Foot.

4.   Your Heels being close creates an “in balance” motion.

5.   Your “in balance” motion has your Glove Arm promoting your Throwing Action.

6.   Your Lower Body rotates.

7.   Your Hands need to separate before your Stride.

8.   Your Back Knee begins toward Second Base.

9.   Your Shoulders need to be aligned with your Hips.

10. Your Stride needs to happen before your Hands move.

11. You need your Front Foot to move after your Hands.

12. Your Throwing Hand needs to stay in front of your Body.

13. Your Body is vertical going into your release.

14. Your Glove Arm initiates your Throwing Action.

 Starting “in balance” means you send your ball to your target with uncanny regularity, and your motion never changes!

Getting Better Results

The Pro Pitching Institute teaches you the balance 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 © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute.

Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Organized Motions – Shoulder Alignment

For proper lower body engagement, accurate throws, and a successful pitching delivery, the importance of shoulder alignment is paramount.

For proper lower body engagement, accurate throws, and a successful pitching delivery, the importance of shoulder alignment is paramount.

The Foundation for Effective Pitching

When your shoulders are in line with your target, you promote Lower Body engagement.

Aligned shoulders allow your lower body to generate power and initiate the throwing motion.

A well-aligned upper body ensures a smooth and powerful stride and provides a stable base for the throw.

When your body is aligned, your glove arm moves freely guiding the throwing arm and initiating the release.

Misaligned Shoulders

Out-of-line shoulders can prevent your lower body from engaging effectively and leads to a less-accurate throw.

Misalignment causes your stride to be off-balance, limits the freedom of your glove arm, and hinders your ability to throw the ball accurately.

Conclusion

By maintaining proper shoulder alignment, pitchers ensure a more efficient and powerful delivery leading to increased accuracy and control.

Getting Better Results

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 © 2024, Pro Pitching Institute.