Arm Protective Sleeves For Baseball Youth Pitchers Safe? Can Kinetic Arm Help Provide Treatment To AVOID Tommy John Surgery OR Little League Shoulder?

Arm Protective Sleeves For Baseball Youth Pitchers Safe? Can Kinetic Arm Help Provide Treatment To AVOID Tommy John Surgery OR Little League Shoulder?

Discover whether arm protective sleeves are safe for baseball youth pitchers, and learn whether the Kinetic Arm can help provide early “treatment” to AVOID Tommy John surgery AND little league shoulder.  Real time data suggests the Kinetic Arm reduces elbow stress by 30%!

Protective Arm Sleeves for Kids: Overprotective Parenting or a Game-Changing Innovation?

Hey there, fellow baseball or softball pitching parents! Before you roll your eyes thinking this is just another article about kids and their fancy gear (aka “drip”), stick with me. I promise there’s a method to the madness, sprinkled with a dash of nostalgia and good old baseball trivia.

A Brief History of Baseball and Protective Gear

Ever watched those classic baseball clips? Players in baggy uniforms, and almost no protective gear. Catchers not wearing a mask.  Hitters not wearing a helmet.  Grown men playing infield not wearing a cup.  Yep, times have changed!

Evolution of Safety Measures

From helmets to shin guards, safety gear has grown up with the sport. What started as protective essentials have now become status symbols, with players even personalizing their gear. But, is it all just about looking cool?

Not Just a Fashion Statement

The past decades have seen a surge in research dedicated to athlete safety. These aren’t just aesthetic upgrades; they’re backed by some serious science.

Before getting started, here are a couple helpful articles:

  1. American Sports Medicine InstitutePosition Statement for Adolescent Baseball Pitchers, and
  2. PubMedSport Specialization and Overuse Injuries in Adolescent Throwing Athletes: A Narrative Review.

The Dreaded Tommy John Injury: A Nightmare for Young Pitchers

Tommy John surgery (ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction) has seen a notable uptick in the youth demographic, particularly in young baseball pitchers. Interpreting the available data up until January of 2022, here are the top 5 factors I’d identify for this increase:

  1. Increased Specialization at a Young Age: Many young athletes nowadays focus on a single sport year-round, rather than playing multiple sports across different seasons. This constant repetition, especially in baseball pitching, places immense strain on the elbow, leading to wear and tear. Not having an off-season deprives the arm of much-needed rest.
  2. Overuse: Linked closely with specialization, overuse is rampant among young pitchers. Whether it’s pitching for multiple teams, participating in showcases, or not adhering to pitch count guidelines, constant pitching without proper rest intervals puts significant strain on the developing ligaments of young arms.
  3. Improper Mechanics: Proper pitching mechanics are crucial in distributing the stresses of the throw across the body. Improper mechanics, especially in young pitchers still mastering their technique, can place undue stress on the elbow. Consistent repetition of poor mechanics can accelerate the wear on the UCL.
  4. Early Velocity Training: There’s been a trend of emphasizing pitch speed at earlier ages. Young pitchers, in their eagerness to hit higher velocities, might adopt training methods and pitching loads that their bodies aren’t yet ready to handle, leading to increased risk. Versus diving into Perry Husband’s Effective Velocity, which is working much smarter, not harder.
  5. Lack of Proper Conditioning and Physical Training: While youth athletes may train often, they might not train right. Proper conditioning, flexibility exercises, and strength training specific to pitchers can protect the arm and elbow. The absence or inadequate focus on such conditioning can leave young pitchers vulnerable.

While these are broad factors, it’s essential to remember that each athlete is unique. There could be individual factors (like these young athletes are GROWING!!), or a combination of the above, leading to an injury. Proper education for coaches, parents, and players on recognizing and addressing these issues is vital to curbing this growing trend.

Speaking of growing trends…

Biomechanics Insight: Understanding “Little League” Shoulder

In the realm of biomechanics, the precise interaction of forces and motion plays a pivotal role in an athlete’s performance and well being. “Little League Shoulder” exemplifies the consequences of mismanaged biomechanical forces in young pitchers.

At its core, “Little League Shoulder” stems from an imbalance: the repetitive and forceful actions of overhand pitching exert significant stress on the proximal humerus’s growth plate (the physis). In the young athlete, this growth plate is still maturing and is more vulnerable than the surrounding ligaments and muscles.

Biomechanical Perspective

Biomechanically speaking, every pitch applies torque to the shoulder. In a mature arm, the muscles, tendons, and ligaments distribute this torque effectively, minimizing the risk. However, in the developing arm of an adolescent, continuous pitching without adequate rest can overload the growth plate. The result? Micro-traumas, inflammation, and a widened growth plate, manifesting as pain and swelling.

Age and Vulnerability

Age plays a crucial factor. Between 11 and 16, as youths undergo growth spurts, their skeletal structures are rapidly evolving, making the growth plates particularly susceptible.

In summary, “Little League Shoulder” is a biomechanical repercussion of overuse in a still-maturing musculoskeletal system. Proper rest, conditioning, and biomechanically-informed training are paramount in preventing this injury.

If you’re interested in the Kinetic Arm, then here’s how to get 5% OFF your purchase, use Discount Code: GET5OFF at checkout.

Protective Arm Sleeves: Not Just For Show (“Drip”)

Enter the superhero of our story: the protective arm sleeve.

The Biomechanics Behind the Sleeve

A select few of these sleeves aren’t just fabric tubes. They support muscles and joints, improve blood flow, and maintain a steady arm temperature. It’s like giving your arm a cozy, protective hug.

Real Benefits or Just Hype?

Reduced muscle soreness, better performance, and possibly fewer injuries? Sounds like a home run to me!  Maybe.  You need to be using the right sleeve.

Naysayers’ Corner: Arguments Against the Protective Arm Sleeve

But wait! Every superhero has its critics.

The “Tough It Out” Mentality

Some believe these protective arm sleeves make kids soft. “Back in my day…” – sounds familiar, right? While toughness is admirable in football, safety is paramount when it comes to growing healthy youth arms.

Concerns About Over-reliance

It’s valid to worry kids might become too dependent on a protective arm sleeve – like a crutch. But, it’s all about balance, right? Teach them to use but not overuse.

Making An Informed Decision For Your Young Athlete

Every child is unique. While protective arm sleeves offer undeniable benefits, it’s essential to ensure they’re used as a tool, not a crutch.

Conclusion: My Two Cents as a Biomechanics Buff

Whether you’re team protective arm sleeve or not, we can agree on one thing: kids’ arm safety is a priority. If a piece of gear can help, why not give it a shot? After all, isn’t it better to be safe than sorry (and stylish to boot)?

Consider this…

Introducing: The Kinetic Arm™ Dynamic Arm Stabilizer

In the vast landscape of sports gear, a few revolutionary products emerge that redefine standards. The Kinetic Arm™ is one such innovation, designed not just to protect but to elevate.

The True Cost of Not Protecting Your Arm

Consider this: A single misstep or overuse in your athletic journey could lead you down the path of Tommy John surgery. The rehab, the time away from the game, the potential long-term impact on performance — it’s a journey no athlete wishes to undertake. Yet, the increasing demands on pitchers, especially the young and ambitious, make this a looming threat.

Why Settle for Less When Excellence Awaits?

With the Kinetic Arm™, you’re not merely wearing a protective sleeve. You’re investing in the future of your athletic prowess. It’s more than fabric; it’s an assurance.

Step Beyond Tradition

Gone are the days when protective gear was cumbersome and restrictive. The Kinetic Arm™ is designed to be an extension of you. It moves as you move, ensuring not just safety but enhancing every throw, every swing.

MuscleWeb™ Technology: A Revolution in Athletic Support

This isn’t just a catchy term. The MuscleWeb™ Technology is the culmination of years of research. It aligns seamlessly with your muscles, offering unparalleled support without compromising on freedom of movement. It’s as if your arm finds its natural rhythm, each time, every time.

Benefits That Speak Volumes:

  1. Evidence-based Excellence: Our claims aren’t hollow. We stand by data and research, which underscores every feature of the Kinetic Arm™.
  2. Reduction in Elbow Stress: With a proven 30% reduction in elbow torque and stress, this isn’t just a protective gear—it’s a rejuvenating experience for your arm. Think of it as preventative care, ensuring you remain at the top of your game for longer.
  3. Multifaceted Advantages: Wearing the Kinetic Arm™ translates to enhanced conditioning and speed that sets you apart. More importantly, it’s a shield against potential injuries, making sure the game’s setbacks don’t set you back.

In the end, the question isn’t whether you need the Kinetic Arm™. It’s whether you’re ready to commit to the best for your athletic journey. The game is evolving. Make sure you’re equipped to evolve with it. Embrace the Kinetic Arm™ and let every move, every pitch, every swing be a testament to your dedication to excellence. The next move is yours.

If you’re interested in the Kinetic Arm, then here’s how to get 5% OFF your purchase, use Discount Code: GET5OFF at checkout.

FAQs:

  1. Do arm sleeves actually prevent injuries?  While they can reduce the risk by improving blood flow and muscle support, they aren’t a magic shield. Proper training and rest are equally important.  See the Tommy John section above.
  2. Aren’t kids too young for such specialized gear?  It’s never too early to prioritize safety, especially when the gear can enhance performance too.
  3. How do I choose the right sleeve for my child?  Focus on fit, material quality, and ensure it’s designed for baseball-specific movements.
  4. Won’t kids become too reliant on gear?  It’s about educating them. Gear is a tool, not a replacement for skill and training.
  5. How often should the sleeve be washed or replaced?  Regular washing after intense sessions is essential. Replace it when wear and tear become evident or if it loses elasticity.

 

Unleash Your Swing: Ultimate Guide To Finding Best Baseball Radar Gun

Unleash Your Swing: Ultimate Guide To Finding Best Baseball Radar Gun

Discover the best baseball radar gun app for iPhone, and learn about this for sale online ultimate guide…

Unleash Your Swing: Ultimate Guide To Finding Best Baseball Radar Gun Introduction

As a passionate baseball hitting instructor, I understand the immense value of performance tracking and improvement in the game. One tool that has revolutionized the way players approach their swing is the baseball radar gun. In this comprehensive guide, I will take you through the world of baseball radar guns, providing valuable insights and recommendations to help you find the best one for your needs.

The Importance of a Baseball Radar Gun

Hitting a baseball with precision and power requires a combination of skill, technique, and timing. To unlock your full potential as a hitter, it’s crucial to understand the mechanics of your swing and make necessary adjustments. This is where a baseball radar gun becomes invaluable. By accurately measuring the speed of your swing and the exit velocity of the ball off your bat, a radar gun provides actionable data that can take your performance to new heights.

Understanding Baseball Radar Guns

Before diving into the selection process, let’s familiarize ourselves with the key aspects of baseball radar guns. These devices utilize advanced technology to measure the velocity of a moving object, such as a baseball. They employ Doppler radar, which calculates speed by analyzing the frequency shift of the radar waves reflected off the object. The radar gun then displays the speed on a digital screen, allowing players and coaches to evaluate and improve their performance.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Baseball Radar Gun

When seeking the best baseball radar gun, several factors warrant careful consideration. By assessing these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements.

Accuracy and Precision

The accuracy and precision of a radar gun are paramount. Look for a model that consistently provides reliable readings and minimizes measurement errors. A radar gun with a small margin of error ensures you receive accurate feedback, allowing you to make precise adjustments to your swing.

Display and User Interface

A clear and user-friendly display is essential for quick and easy data interpretation. Opt for a radar gun that features a high-resolution screen, enabling you to read and analyze the results effortlessly. Additionally, consider a user interface that offers intuitive navigation and customizable settings for a personalized experience.

Portability and Ease of Use

A radar gun should be portable and convenient to use, whether you’re practicing alone or with a team. Look for lightweight and compact models that can be easily carried in your equipment bag. Furthermore, consider a radar gun with straightforward operation, allowing you to focus more on your swing and less on complex device controls.

Compatibility with Devices

In today’s tech-savvy world, compatibility with smartphones and tablets is a desirable feature. Many radar guns come with companion apps that enhance the user experience by providing additional data analysis, performance tracking, and the ability to share results with teammates and coaches. Ensure that the radar gun you choose is compatible with your preferred devices.

Top Baseball Radar Gun Apps for iPhone

Harnessing the power of technology, several radar gun apps have been developed specifically for iPhone users. Let’s explore some of the top options available and their unique features, pros, and cons.

PocketRadar Ball/Smart Coach

Unleash your potential with the Smart Coach App System – the ultimate tool for remote coaching and training. Train at home and accelerate your skills with immediate video and velocity feedback. Showcase your talent to coaches and scouts by sharing videos with embedded speeds and gain extra visibility for recruiting. With the Smart Coach Radar System, you’ll access advanced features unavailable elsewhere, such as instant feedback, history review, and speed-embedded videos.

Maximize improvement with mechanics analysis and share videos socially. Compatible with iOS 14+ and Android 10.0+ devices, this affordable, complete speed and video training system empowers athletes in all sports. The Ball Coach Radar, built with durable high-impact plastic, delivers pro-level accuracy for versatile use. Optimize your performance, create a digital record of progress, and achieve better results. Don’t miss out on this game-changing opportunity. Upgrade now!

Diamond Kinetics SwingTracker Bat Sensor

Unleash your hitting potential with the SwingTracker Bat Sensor. Get a FREE 1-Year DK+ Membership and access DK Games, Guided Sessions, and more. Take real swings and earn rewards in interactive games like Virtual Home Run Derby. Learn from top coaches in engaging Guided Sessions. Diamond Kinetics is the Trusted Youth Development Platform of Major League Baseball.

Download the Diamond Kinetics App and have fun while improving your skills. Immerse yourself in virtual games and challenge yourself with Barrel Speed Climber and Trigger to Impact. Perfect for families – get the Bat Sensor with a FREE 1-year DK+ Membership for up to 4 players. Customize your avatar and player card with collectibles and exclusive MLB skins in the Virtual Clubhouse. Maximize your hitting journey with Diamond Kinetics and unlock the true power of your swing.

Blast Baseball – Swing Analyzer (Sensor)

Unleash your power with the Blast Baseball Swing Analyzer, the ultimate tool for serious players. Trusted by pros, college teams, and top travel teams, this accurate and advanced sensor delivers unreal results. Analyze every swing with impactful metrics, insights, and drills for improvement. Record and review swings with overlaid metrics using smart video capture. Train year-round with Air Swings, even indoors.

Blast Games like Home Run Derby add excitement to your training. Simply attach the Swing Analyzer to any bat and receive instant feedback. The package includes the Swing Analyzer, charger, bat attachment, and smart bat insertion key. Enjoy app updates with progress reports, swing challenges, and baseball card stats. Blast Baseball is your resource for becoming a stronger, more efficient hitter. Unlock your potential, share your success, and achieve game-changing results. Upgrade your swing with Blast Baseball today.

Best Baseball Radar Guns with Displays

If you prefer a dedicated device with a built-in display, there are several exceptional options available in the market. Let’s explore three top models and their features, pros, and cons.

Stalker Sport 2 Radar

Get the Stalker Deluxe Package, featuring the powerful Stalker Sport 2 Radar. Trusted by all 30 MLB teams, it outperforms other radar guns. Accurately measure pitching and running speeds with ease. This durable and well-constructed radar gun will last for years to come. Point and click for instant speed readings. Customers rave about its accuracy, battery life, and exceptional customer support.

Perfect for coaching, it measures release point and arrival speed, teaching kids proper technique. Record bat velocity during practice sessions. Invest in the Stalker Sport 2 and experience professional-grade performance. Don’t settle for cheaper alternatives. Choose reliability, accuracy, and durability. Join the satisfied customers who trust Stalker for their radar gun needs. Upgrade your training and coaching with the best in the game.

Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun

Unleash your need for speed with the Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun. Its large LCD display ensures easy reading, while its point-and-shoot operation delivers accurate speed measurements within 1.0 MPH. This versatile device tracks speeds from 10 to 110 MPH, making it perfect for baseball, softball, tennis, running, and more. Its compact size and 2-year warranty guarantee convenience and durability.

The Velocity Speed Gun utilizes advanced digital signal processing technology for precise results, providing immediate feedback for coaching decisions or personal improvement. Whether you’re timing pitches, serves, or even racing speeds, this reliable device is your go-to solution. Trust the Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun to measure speed like a pro, offering accurate readings and effortless operation. Upgrade your performance and gain an edge in the game with this essential speed-tracking tool.

Sports Radar Tracer Sport Radar Gun

Unlock the power of speed measurement with the SRA3000 Radar Gun. Experience professional performance at an affordable price. This versatile device accurately tracks the speed of balls, clubs, bats, runners, and cars. With its user-friendly design, simply turn it on, point, and pull the trigger for easy operation. Enjoy advanced features like continuous read mode, tripod mounting, and quick read mode for club or bat swing speeds.

Choose between MPH or Km/h speed units and benefit from average speed recall. With a range of 10 to 199 MPH or Km/h, the SRA3000 delivers precise results. Lightweight and compatible with camera tripods, it offers convenience and flexibility. The SRA3000 Radar Gun comes with a storage bag and a 1-year limited warranty. Embrace accuracy and reliability with this premier radar gun. Upgrade your speed tracking capabilities and unleash your full potential.

Affordable Options: Finding Cheap Baseball Radar Guns

Not everyone wants to invest a significant amount in a radar gun. Fortunately, there are affordable options available that still provide valuable insights into your swing. These budget-friendly radar guns may have limitations in terms of advanced features or display quality, but they can still serve as effective tools for performance tracking.

Conclusion

Finding the best baseball radar gun can be a game-changer for your hitting performance. By considering factors such as accuracy, display quality, portability, and compatibility, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget. Whether you opt for a radar gun app on your iPhone or a dedicated device with a display, the insights gained from these tools will help you unleash your swing’s full potential and elevate your game to new heights.

FAQs

  1. Can a baseball radar gun help improve my swing mechanics? Yes, a baseball radar gun can certainly help improve your swing mechanics. By accurately measuring the speed of your swing and the exit velocity of the ball off your bat, a radar gun provides valuable feedback that allows you to identify areas for improvement. You can make adjustments to your technique, timing, and power based on the data provided by the radar gun, leading to more consistent and effective swings.
  2. Are radar gun apps as accurate as dedicated radar gun devices? Radar gun apps can provide accurate readings, but it’s important to note that the accuracy may vary depending on various factors such as the quality of your device’s camera and the app’s algorithms. Dedicated radar gun devices are specifically designed for accurate speed measurement and often offer higher precision. If precise and consistent measurements are crucial to you, investing in a dedicated radar gun device might be a better choice.
  3. Can I use a radar gun for other sports apart from baseball? While radar guns are commonly associated with baseball, they can be used for various other sports as well. Many radar guns have a versatile range and can measure the speed of objects such as tennis balls, soccer balls, or golf swings. However, it’s important to check the specifications and capabilities of the radar gun to ensure it suits your specific sporting needs.
  4. How can I maximize the benefits of using a baseball radar gun? To maximize the benefits of using a baseball radar gun, it’s essential to use the data it provides effectively. Regularly track your swing speed and ball exit velocity to monitor your progress over time. Analyze the results to identify any patterns or areas that need improvement. Work with a coach or trainer who can help you interpret the data and provide guidance on making adjustments to your swing mechanics.
  5. Can I share the data from my radar gun with my coach or teammates? Yes, many radar guns, especially those with companion apps, allow you to share your data with coaches, teammates, or training partners. This can be done through email, text messages, or by connecting to a shared platform where everyone can access and analyze the data together. Sharing your data can facilitate discussions, feedback, and collaborative efforts to enhance your overall performance.

Remember, these FAQs are just a starting point, and as you explore the world of baseball radar guns, you may have additional questions specific to your needs and situation. Always consult with experts and professionals in the field to get the most out of your radar gun and optimize your hitting performance.

The Rope Bat Review: Training Aid Teaches Place Hitting Mechanics To Opposite Field Drills

Discover in the Rope Bat review how this training aid teaches hitters place hitting mechanical drills to consistently drive the ball to the opposite field.  Great to teach right handed pull hitters to hit to right field (and opposite for lefties)

The Rope Bat: How To Take The Headache Out Of Barrel Path (A Case Study)

 

 

Ropebat: Liam Case Study

There are 10-days between these two videos.

(If you have a legit “down swinger”, then this Ropebat post will benefit them!)

Here’s what I have for you…

I was recently working on smoothing out the barrel path of one of my 15 year old local hitters Liam…

He had what I’ve heard called a Verizon check mark barrel path BEFORE.  We worked on smoothing out the check mark into more of a curved Nike Swoosh barrel path.

What’s amazing about Liam’s transformation was that:

  • It only took ten days,
  • It took two total 30-minute sessions (beginning of session three was when the AFTER video was taken), and
  • Liam only had access to the Ropebat during our sessions. After session number-three, his mom went ahead and purchased one for home use.*

*Results aren’t typical. Liam has a primary “feel” learning style, so the Ropebat worked well for him – and not to mention quickly with minimal use.

In the above video, we go over:

  • Question a High School coach had for me at 2017 ABCA conference about changing barrel path,
  • The Verizon check mark versus Nike Swoosh barrel path, and
  • The RopeBat cues I use in conjunction with the “feel” of the Ropebat.

CLICK HERE for the original full Ropebat post I did awhile back that shows the swing drill we used.  Or you can get it at our store here.  The Ropebat is my favorite hitting aid for helping hitters learn a solid middle away and middle down barrel path.  Great for hitting line drives to the opposite field!

Which BBCOR or USSSA Baseball Bat is the Best for Power & Contact Hitters in 2022 & 2023?

Discover the best BBCOR or USSSA baseball bats for power and contact hitters in 2022 or 2023 based on price.  Learn whether an under $200 bat outperforms it’s more expensive counterpart in this swing experiment.  For fastpitch and slowpitch softball, it’s crucial to discern this fact.  What about end-loaded BBCOR drop 3 versus USSSA drop 10?

Question: Do More Expensive Bats Increase Bat & Ball Exit Speeds?

 

 

In this baseball batting practice Mizuno bat model experiment using the Zepp (Labs) Baseball app & Bushnell radar gun, I wanted to use the Scientific Method to analyze what would happen to Bat and Ball Exit Speeds comparing the performance of two different Mizuno bat models, but the same 34-inch, 31-ounce size:

 

Background Research

MIZUNO MAXCOR ($150-400)

According to the Mizuno website, the focus of this bat is maximizing Ball Exit Speed and backspin.  Some key features are (Mizuno site):

  • Viscoelastic Sleeve: Creates a wider circumferential sweet area.
  • New Variable Wall Thickness Alloy Core: Increases the sweet area across the length of the barrel, using aircraft aluminum alloy used to keep overall weight low.
  • Dynamic Damper: Transition piece from barrel to handle absorbs vibration for better feel.
  • New Improved Synthetic Leather Grip: Provides tack and great feel.
  • Lower more balanced swing weight for increased swing speed.
  • BBCOR certified, approved for NCAA & NFHS play
  • Barrel Diameter: 2 5/8″

MIZUNO GENERATION

According to Mizuno’s site, the Mizuno Generation baseball bat was designed with two things in mind:

  1. A bigger sweet spot, and
  2. Balance – (lighter swing weight, which can result in faster bat speeds).

Key features of the baseball batting practice Mizuno Generation bat (Mizuno site):

  • Patented wall thickness technology varies the wall thickness across the barrel, creating a massive sweet area for ultimate forgiveness
  • Single wall aerospace grade aluminum alloy used for maximum combination of performance and durability
  • Balanced swing weight for increased swing speed and bat control
  • Digi-Grip for great feel and durability
  • BBCOR certified, approved for USSSA
  • Barrel Diameter: 2 5/8″

Another factor in this baseball batting practice Mizuno bat model experiment will be breaking in a non-wood bat.  CLICK HERE for a good YouTube video on how to break-in a composite bat.  Now, both Mizuno bats are not composites, but I’m sure the breaking in process with any alloy, will have an affect on Ball Exit Speeds.

We’ll adjust the data to address breaking in the bat in the Notes section.

 

Hypothesis

Based on the above baseball batting practice Background Research from Mizuno (albeit promotional materials), and the fact the MaxCor is double the price, I’d expect a much better performance in Bat and Ball Exit Speeds using the MaxCor model bat versus the Generation.

 

Baseball Batting Practice: Mizuno Bat Model Experiment

Equipment Used:

Setup:

  • All baseball batting practice swings were taken off the tee.
  • I used two yellow dimple ball markers to make my stance setup consistent…one was placed inside my back foot, close to the plate.  The other was placed one bat’s length plus two baseballs in front of the back marker.
  • CLICK HERE for the Google Drive excel document with all the Ball Exit Speed (BES) readings.
  • We deleted radar gun mis-reads that registered below 30-mph on the gun.
  • Therefore, we deleted 11 mis-reads from the Mizuno MaxCor bat data, and averaged all MaxCor BES readings to 89 swings.
  • Also, we deleted 7 mis-reads from the Mizuno Generation bat data, and averaged all Generation BES readings to 93 swings.
  • The two tests in the experiment were counter-balanced.  Which consisted of eight blocks of 25-swings done in the following order ABBA BAAB.  Swinging the “Mizuno MaxCor” were letter ‘A’, and
    “Mizuno Generation” were letter ‘B’.  200 total swings were completed in the experiment, 100 per test.  Counter-balancing helps remove the “getting tired” and “not being warmed” up factors.

Data Collected (Zepp Baseball App):

Baseball Batting Practice: Mizuno Bat Model Experiment

According to the Zepp app, the Mizuno MaxCor came out supreme in all areas except the Attack Angle…

 

Data Analysis & Conclusion

ZEPP READINGS:

  • Avg. Bat Speed at Impact increased by 3-mph using the Mizuno MaxCor,
  • Avg. Max Hand Speed increased by 2-mph using the Mizuno MaxCor,
  • Avg. Time to Impact decreased by 0.063,
  • Avg. Bat Vertical Angle at Impact decreased by 1-degree using the Mizuno MaxCor, and
  • Avg. Attack Angle decreased by 4-degrees using the Mizuno MaxCor.

BUSHNELL BALL EXIT SPEED READINGS (CLICK HERE for Google Excel Doc):

  • Avg. Ball Exit Speed increased by 4.6-mph using the Mizuno Generation bat,
  • Top out Ball Exit Speed was 95-mph using the Mizuno Generation bat, and
  • Top out Ball Exit Speed was 90-mph using the Mizuno MaxCor bat.

 

Notes

  • Now, we can’t compare apples to apples baseball batting practice data using the Zepp app and Bushnell radar gun.  If I had one more Bushnell radar gun capturing my bat speed readings perpendicular to my chest, then that would’ve been an interesting comparison.
  • I felt much more balance with the Mizuno Generation.  I also felt like I was more consistently hitting the sweet spot, as their marketing suggests.  For some reason it was tough feeling a consistent sweet spot using the MaxCor, maybe because of the “Dynamic Damper: Transition piece from barrel to handle absorbs vibration for better feel”.
  • It takes about 100-200 swings to break in a non-wood bat, at least according to the following YouTube video on How-To Break-in a Composite Bat.  I’m going to share a Zepp app screenshot comparing the first 100 swings using the Mizuno MaxCor (from this experiment), to the first 100 swings using the Mizuno Generation (from the Baseball Swing Tips: Mizuno Bat Size Experiment):
Baseball Batting Practice: Mizuno Bat Model Experiment

Look at the near identical performance Zepp data between the two bats when we compare their first 100 swings…

  • How about comparing the Ball Exit Speeds of the first 100 swings…according to this Google spreadsheet, the Mizuno MaxCor Avg. Ball Exit Speed was: 83.5-mph.  And according to this Google spreadsheet from a couple weeks before, Avg. Ball Exit Speed using the Mizuno Generation 34/31 was:  88.3-mph.

The Bottom Line?

Well, according to the baseball batting practice Mizuno bat model experiment data, it looks like the Generation model holds the performance edge when it comes to Ball Exit Speed, almost a 5-mph difference.  That’s about 20-feet of extra distance!  From how the experiment turned out, I’d save the $200 and buy a Mizuno Generation.  Now, this data doesn’t mean EVERY expensive bat will under-perform it’s more economic brethren, it just means you need to tinker and test to find the truth.

Hitting Training For Baseball & Softball Swing Trainers | Hitting Performance Lab

Discover where to find the best training equipment, hitting aids, tools, online programs, and 15 books on youth hitting coaching strategies for fixing the baseball or softball swing…

Baseball Equipment Training for Hitters: Never Suffer from Paralysis by Analysis Again

Baseball Equipment Training for Hitters

This is a shortlist of the thousands of dollars I’ve spent on educating myself about how the human body moves…

I often get asked about baseball equipment, books, and other resources to use, from coaches about hitting.

From hitting aids…to hitting programs…to hitting books.

There’s a potential for exponential growth in this information age, for coaches.  There’s no excuse not to succeed nowadays.  As Tony Robbins says,

“Where focus goes, energy flows.”

I wanted to share a list of equipment, books, and other resources that have helped in my own baseball training equipment for hitters journey.

I do a ton of research and study to find only the best.  The key is, does the information or hitting aid hold up to the modern human sciences?

At the end of this post, I’d like to hear from you.  What baseball training equipment for hitters (or for coaches) did I leave out?

By the way, this “guide” has as much to do with softball, as it does for baseball.

Think of this post as the definitive guide to baseball training equipment for hitters

Baseball Training for Hitters: Books

Baseball Equipment Training for Hitters: Anatomy Trains by Thomas Myers

Anatomy Trains, by Thomas Myers

  1. Anatomy Trains, by Thomas Myers – this book changed my hitting world.  Probably the best book for understanding the way humans move and how to optimize it.
  2. Dynamic Body Exploring Form, Expanding Function, by Dr. Erik Dalton et al. – a collaborative of distinguished movement author experts.  Even if you read a couple of the articles in there, you’ll be farther along than the conventional coach.
  3. The Spinal Engine, by Dr. Serge Gracovetsky – he cuts to the heart of the main engine in the swing.  I want to warn you though, the information is jargon thick.
  4. Becoming a Supple Leopard: The Ultimate Guide to Resolving Pain, Preventing Injury, and Optimizing Athletic Performance…, by Dr. Kelly Starrett and Glen Cordoza – this book is a beast.  The Golden Rule for hitters?  You have to train like an athlete first, THEN a baseball or softball player.
  5. The Golfing Machine, by Homer Kelly – Kelly was an aeronautical engineer for Boeing during the Great Depression.  He fell in love with golf and began applying engineering principles to the Golf swing.
  6. Make It Stick, by Peter C. Brown – the science of successful learning.  This book changed how I train hitting forever.
  7. The Science Of Hitting, by Ted Williams – need I say more?
  8. Disciple of a Master: How to Hit a Baseball to Your Potential, by Stephen J. Ferroli – written in 1986 as an answer to the Ted Williams book The Making Of A Hitter.  Ferroli was a bio-mechanical expert who gave more detail to Williams’s study.  It’s an easy book to digest.  When I was reading it, it was interesting how eerily similar our approaches were because of science.
  9. The Making Of A Hitter, by Jim Lefebvre – particularly the part when he talks about the swing being a combination of Centripetal & Centrifugal Forces.
  10. Positional Hitting: The Modern Approach to Analyzing and Training Your Baseball Swing, by Jaime Cevallos – his observations are great, but applying the information via his drills prove to be a challenge.
  11. Heads-Up Baseball : Playing the Game One Pitch at a Time, by Tom HansonKen Ravizza – one of the best books on the mental side of hitting.
  12. Sadaharu Oh: A Zen Way Of Baseball, by Sadaharu Oh & David Falkner – from the Japanese baseball career home-run leader (he hit 868 homers!!).
  13. The Captain: The Journey Of Derek Jeter, by Ian O’Conner – great example of hard work and dedication paying off.  Not to mention one of the better human examples of ethics and morals.
  14. One Last Strike: Fifty Years in Baseball, Ten and Half Games Back, and One Final Championship Season, by Tony La Russa – great insight into the game within the game, and great how-to example for coaches from a man who didn’t amount to much as a player in the game.
  15. Wooden: A Lifetime of Observations and Reflections On and Off the Courtby John Wooden – I actually haven’t read this one yet, but have read through quite a bit of Coach Wooden’s stuff.  My college baseball Coach Bob Bennett used a lot of his coaching principles.  But I’d be remiss if I didn’t include one of Coach Wooden’s books as a resource for coaches.  By the way, this is the best rated on Amazon.com.

 

 Baseball Training for Hitters: Hitting Aids

Baseball Equipment Training for Hitters

TheStartingLineupStore.com

In March of 2011, I put together an online store selecting the best 9 hitting aids on the planet.  It’s called TheStartingLineupStore.com.  I won’t go into all of them here, but I wanted to highlight my top-4 sellers:

  1. Rotex Motion – helping hitters move better, so they can move better.
  2. The Kinetic Arm – protective shoulder and elbow sleeve that reduces compression in the UCL (Ulner Collateral Ligament) and shoulder.
  3. “Don’t Let Good Enough Be Good Enough” T-Shirt – one of many cool hitting themed t-shirts.
  4. “Goliath” end-loaded heavy wooden bat – get benefit of swinging end loaded heavy bat AND wood, so you’re hitters can get stronger and control the barrel better.

Top-4 essential baseball training equipment for hitters…

  1. Zepp Baseball App (Zepp doesn’t make this anymore, so check out SwingTracker or BlastMotion) – the Zepp device attaches to the knob of the bat, and registers bat speed, ball exit speed, hand speed, swing path, attack angle, etc. to the coordinating app on your phone.  It carries a hefty price tag at $150, but for coaches serious about running swing experiments, it’s a MUST!!  CLICK HERE for an experiment I did using it.
  2. Coaches Eye App OR HudlTech – slow motion analysis for your phone.  Both apps are compatible with both the iphone and android.  I have the CoachesEye.  Both are free I believe.
  3. Powerchalk – web based motion analysis.  You don’t have to download any software to your computer.  The free membership comes with:  1) The ability to upload ten separate videos to your own Video Locker, 2) Two-minutes of recording time per analysis, 3) 10-slot video locker, and 4) Upload and share video content.

If you digest the baseball training equipment for hitters book suggestions alone, you’ll put yourself in the top 1% of hitting coaches, instructors, and trainers.  As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said:

“The man who grasps principles can successfully select his own methods. The man who tries methods, ignoring principles, is sure to have trouble.”

And don’t just stop there.  Read player biographies and auto-biographies of past players like Ted Williams, Babe Ruth, Joe Dimaggio, etc.  That being said…

 

I Want to Hear Your Baseball Training Equipment for Hitters Thoughts…

What baseball training equipment for hitters (or for coaches) did I leave out that should be included in the definitive guide?  Please comment in the “Leave a Reply” section below…

Easton's Mako Torq Composite: Can Metal Baseball Bat STOP Wrist Rolling Over In Swing Path?

Discover whether a metal baseball or softball bat (aluminum, composite, etc) can STOP wrist rolling over in the swing path? Learn how the Easton’s Mako Torq bat CANNOT!  Why?  Because “rolling over” is a timing issue, NOT a mechanical breakdown.  Good timing equals NO wrist roll.  Therefore, this bat was as irrelevant as the Easton “engineer” that bad mouthed me when I first published this post.

Composite Bats: Easton Mako Torq MISSED The Mark?

 

 

As a side note, let me clear the air about metal vs aluminum vs composite because there seems to be quite the confusion in the YouTube comments. In doing a quick Google search:

  • Is aluminum a type of metal? “Aluminum is the most abundant metal on Earth, and one of the cheapest to buy.  Aluminum is the third most common element in the Earth’s crust, but it also bonds easily with other elements. That means it is not found in nature as a pure metal.”
  • Are alloys considered metal? “An alloy is technically an impure metal, but when referring to alloys, the term impurities usually denotes undesirable elements. Such impurities are introduced from the base metals and alloying elements, but are removed during processing.”
  • Are composite bats metal? Composite baseball bats, opposed to aluminum or wood baseball bats, incorporate a reinforced carbon fiber polymer, or composite, into the bat’s construction. This composite material can make up all or part of the bat. Bats made entirely of this polymer are referred to as composite bats.”

Okay, on with the review…

Let me be clear about the objective of this article.  There are bats, and there are hitting aids.  Easton Mako Torq composite bats have attempted to fuse both together.  This is fine, but the price point is high ($280-550) when compared to a simplified alternative.

We HAVE to scrutinize hitting aids with science, like we do efficient hitting movements.  If you haven’t heard of Easton Mako Torq composite bats yet, then here you go…

Key product marketing differentiation says they use “360-degree Torq Rotating Handle Technology”.  Easton’s claim is to stop a hitter from rolling their hands over at contact.  Their launch video says these composite bats help to be “short to the ball”, “square up more pitches”, “get to the zone faster”, and “stay in the zone longer”.

Let’s answer these THREE questions:

  • Is rolling over a big problem?
  • What do cues like being “short to the ball” really mean? And,
  • Attack of the shady Easton “engineer”?

Is Rolling Over a Big Problem?

Short answer is YES.  The real question is, is rolling over a mechanical problem?  NO.  It’s a timing problem.  I would challenge you to find a hitter ON-TIME rolling over. Even with the worst thing you can think of, try and find THAT swing rolling over.

With that being said, making a bat that “cures” rolling over is COMPLETELY irrelevant.  And if that’s your main marketing point, then you’re conning people into buying your gimmick.

 

What Do Cues like Being “Short to the Ball” Really Mean?

The marketing for Easton Mako Torq composite bats promise – that by using their bat – a hitter will:

  • “Be short to the ball”,
  • “Square up more pitches”,
  • “Get to the zone faster”, and
  • “Stay in the zone longer”.

Let’s briefly break these claims down…

“Be short to the ball”

Being short to the ball is a term we use for middle in and middle up pitches.  This is achieved with top hand barrel control.  It can be argued that a more balanced bat would make it easier to control the barrel, rather than an end loaded one, but that has zero correlation to the Easton Mako Torq technology.

“Square up more pitches”

If rolling handle technology can counteract a hitter from rolling their wrist over at contact, then this may be true, sometimes.  Squaring up more pitches has MORE to do with a hitter’s timing.  Also, where a hitter makes contact in the impact zone can be the difference between hitting the sweet spot consistently or not.  Unfortunately, the Easton Maco Torq DOES NOT help with timing or a hitter’s contact point.

“Get to the zone faster”

Getting to the zone (impact zone I assume) is all about the Conservation of Angular Momentum.  Since a hitter doesn’t know which type of pitch, speed, and location beforehand, it’s a race – after a decision to swing has been made – to get the barrel on the pitch plane as soon as possible.  In order to spin faster, the hitter MUST stay tight in the turn until the barrel is on plane.

“Stay in the Zone longer”

Here’s where I think Easton Mako Torq composite bats hit the mark.  IF – and it is a BIG “if” – these bats can stop rolling over, then a hitter’s “stay through” will get better.  But at a price ($280-550).  And once the hitter has to swing a normal “one-piece” bat, then I’m not sure if the anti-roll over mechanics would transfer.  I don’t see higher levels adopting Easton Mako Torq composite bats.

 

Attack of the Shady Easton “Engineer”?

Post UPDATE: By the way, about a couple months after publishing this YouTube and article (when it began to gain serious traction – and as of this ‘update’ the video has been viewed almost 90K times on YouTube), one of Easton’s engineers contacted me VERY unprofessionally.  Clearly he had a bone to pick.  Saying I had zero ground to stand on, and how could I ‘bad mouth’ their precious Mako Torq technology…that I didn’t know what I was talking about.  What’s laughable is that this “engineer” couldn’t supply me with credible studies that supported their claims…he said they had them, but he wouldn’t share.  Hmmmm…

Let me be clear, I LOVE Easton bats, and preferred them well over Louisville Slugger’s. However, I don’t agree with their opinion on Torq technology benefits.

From what I’ve heard, Easton purchased the patent from a High School player who made the technology, in wood shop class, to alleviate pain in his wrist when swinging.  IT WORKED!!  If Easton would have marketed it based on that, there would be no discussion.  But I feel they stretched the technology truth a bit too much.  You be the judge.

Modern MLB Bat Path Level Swing Trainer To Fix Drag: Turning Vs Pushing Barrel Hitting Aids

Discover the modern MLB bat path ‘level swing’ trainer that helps fix bat drag.  Learn difference between turning the barrel versus pushing with these hitting aids for baseball and softball.

Baseball Training Aids: Long Slow Swing Fix?

 

 

It’s featured advertising on MLBNetwork.  Derek Shelton, the Tampa Bay Rays hitting coach, is the spokesperson in the video ad (CLICK HERE to see video).

Go to the SpeedHitter website, and you’ll see endorsements from:

  • CC Sabathia (son uses),
  • Aaron Boone (son uses),
  • Kerry Wood (son uses), and
  • David Segui.

I’ve also seen the Speed Hitter being used – this past summer – in Little League All-Stars game on-deck circles.  Does it work?  In this baseball training aids video blog post, we’ll talk about:

  • Speed Hitter baseball training aids review,
  • Barrel path science, and
  • A better alternative

 

Speed Hitter Baseball Training Aids Review

Two main objectives of Speed Hitter baseball training aids (softball included) allegedly address a hitter’s contact point and barrel path.  A hitter is suppose to swing it and hear the “pop” of the ball where contact is made.  The Speed Hitter is priced between $59.99-79.99 + shipping.  Baseball training aids that are highly endorsed and visible often raise red flags for me.  THREE reasons WHY:

  • Endorsements – A majority of Pro-level athletes simply CANNOT teach what they do (or did)*,
  • Expertise – MLB hitting coaches carry A LOT of high “lose-your-job” risk instructing big money ballplayers, and
  • Marketing – Big money ads, in the proper places, can lend massive credibility to a defective concept that as a result, users tend to overlook.

*This actually has to do with what Neuro Linguistic Programming calls Unconscious Competence.  Players simply perform on ‘auto-pilot’.  On the other hand, Conscious Competence is being able to instruct someone else to exactly model what you’re doing.

Barrel Path Science

Baseball Swing Path

Image from Ted Williams’s The Science Of Hitting. We want the hitter’s barrel path to match the plane of the pitch, not chop down OR put an extreme uppercut on it.

Speed Hitter baseball training aids are flawed for FOUR-reasons:

  1. Point of contact and when the barrel enters the zone are two different things,
  2. Point of contactCLICK HERE for a post I did illustrating point of contact based on pitch depth,
  3. When Barrel Enters Zone – this will depend on pitch depth – the farther the pitch is away from the hitter, the earlier the barrel should enter the zone.  The closer the pitch, the later the barrel should enter the zone, and
  4. Tampa Bay Rays hitting coach and Speed Hitter spokesperson Derek Shelton doesn’t have an efficient swing himself (wraps the bat in the ad).

Addressing #2 above – The Speed Hitter doesn’t seem to be a hitting aid that lends itself to practicing “point of contact”.  It’s more geared for when the barrel enters the zone.

Addressing #4 above – nothing against MLB hitting coaches or any coach on YouTube demonstrating a hitting aid or technique, but there’s always context.  There are “snapper” hitting coaches out there teaching every one of their hitters to force barrel back right away, this is great for middle-away and middle-down approaches but terrible middle-in and middle-up – at least WITHOUT significant mechanical compensation to the latter pitch locations (loss of ball exit speed).  And then their are ‘down swinger’ coaches who teach the exact opposite of the snappers.  Both approaches can work in the right circumstances, but teaching one approach to all hitters is a BIG mistake.

 

A Better Alternative…The Swing Blaster

Baseball Training Aids: Swing Blaster Review

Keenan Wolf, one of my H.S. Frosh hitters, after one 45-minute session using a Swing Blaster demo this past summer. Swings are synced.

FIVE benefits of using Swing Blaster baseball training aids (good for softball as well) are:

  1. Early Barrel Acceleration – focuses on getting the barrel on pitch plane ASAP.  It’s not about being quick to the ball, it’s about being quick to pitch plane.
  2. Lengthens Hitter’s Pitch Plane – Gives hitter the ability to hit pitches harder – and keep them fair – that they may be late on otherwise.
  3. EIGHT levels of difficulty – there are eight little ‘washers’ that increase or decrease the level of difficulty to hear the audible “click”.
  4. Take soft toss – You can use the Swing Blaster to take short range soft toss.  A hitter CANNOT do this with Speed Hitter baseball training aids.  DO NOT hit LIVE batting practice with it unless the hitter has good bat control.
  5. MADE IN USA

How does it work?

The Swing Blaster gives a hitter audible feedback in the form of a “click” when max barrel speed has been reached.  It’s simple…

If the hitter hears the “click” AND contact at the same time, then they’re doing it WRONG.  If they hear a “click” FOLLOWED by contact, then they’re doing it RIGHT.  Whereas Speed Hitter baseball training aids have it backwards.  They want the hitter to hear the “pop” at contact.  To be effective, this isn’t when a hitter should be accelerating the barrel.  The barrel should already be accelerated at impact.  Impact is when a hitter’s arms are lengthening out or adjusting in to increase turning speed or inertial force.

The price?  Get yours today for only $34.99 + shipping on Amazon…I’m not sure if Swing Blaster will be raising the price soon, but for now you’ll be SAVING at least $25 than buying a Speed Hitter.  CLICK the following link to

buy-button2

Hitting Training For Baseball & Softball Swing Trainers | Hitting Performance Lab

Discover this inverted baseball, fastpitch, or slow pitch softball professional batting tee.  Learn about the best hitting tee trainer drills to hit more line drives instead of ground balls.  Check out this batting tee review and grab a 10% OFF coupon code…

Baseball Batting Mechanics Risk Hiding In Your Batting Tee

 

 

This is Part-1 of a 3-part baseball batting mechanics video series coming straight out of the Pitch-Plane Dominator online video mini-course…

Pitch Plane Dominator Online Video Course

Sick of struggling to reduce your hitters ground balls, swing and miss strikeouts, and non-productive weak fly balls?  This simple 4-Step online video mini-course (7-modules total) will help hitters weighing less than 100-pounds, barrel the ball more consistently.  Dramatically decrease ground balls, strikeouts, and weak fly balls (no matter the pitch location or speed) by applying human movement rules validated by science.

If you haven’t already, then CLICK the Link below to…

Get Access to The Pitch Plane Dominator Online Video Mini-Course

 

In the baseball batting mechanics video, Backspin Batting Tee inventors, Taylor & Jarrett Gardner are going to dive into…

  • Anatomy of ‘on path bottom half’
  • Why are pitchers taught to keep the ball down in the zone? And,
  • How to train hitting the bottom half…

CLICK HERE for an interview post I did with Taylor Gardner in 2015.

Anatomy of ‘On Path Bottom Half’

Baseball Batting Mechanics: 'On Path Bottom Half'

Should the barrel be level to the ground during the swing?  Should it be down to the ball?  Should it be up to the ball?

Baseball pitchers stand on a mound (if regulation) set up to 10-inches.  If we have a 6-foot pitcher with an overhand release, let’s say his arm adds another foot-in-a-half, then we have about a 8.5 foot above flat ground release point.  In addition to the target being a squatting catcher between 45-60 feet away.

The imaginary line connecting the pitcher’s release point to the catcher’s glove is what I like to call the Pitch-Plane, or plane of the pitch.

In fastpitch softball, the Pitch-Plane isn’t quite so drastic, but because of Gravitational Forces, the ball has to travel in an arc nevertheless.

Our objective as coaches is to get baseball batting mechanics to match the plane of the incoming pitch with the barrel.

You can also see from the eFastball.com graphic that line drives and productive balls in the air are hit using the bottom half of the ball.

 

Why are Pitcher’s Taught to Keep the Ball Down in the Zone?

Baseball Batting Mechanics: Backspin Tee

This baseball batting mechanics chart illustrates the importance of backspin on a batted ball. The higher the degree, the more backspin being created. Photo courtesy: BackSpinTee.com

Pitchers keep the ball down in the zone to get hitters striking the top half of the ball.  And to create an element of deception.

Pitchers know that ground balls are outs 95% of the time in High School.  In college and professional baseball, ground balls are outs 98-99% of the time.

The reality is, a 90-mph fastball drops 4 feet before it gets to the catcher.  This equates to about a 5-degree downward trajectory.  To the hitter, the ball may seem “flat”, but Gravitational Forces are instantly at work pulling the ball down after the pitcher releases it.

That’s only a fastball.  In baseball, we can see up to a 20-degree downward pitch plane when the pitcher throws a breaking ball!

The other thing that’s happening immediately after the pitcher’s release, is the ball starts to slow down because of a myriad of factors, a couple being Gravitational Forces, and the humidity (or lack thereof) in the air.

In other words, the ball may be leaving the pitcher’s hand at 90-mph, but by the time it reaches the catcher’s glove, it’s lost maybe 4 to 6-mph.

 

How to Train Hitting the Bottom Half

Baseball Batting Mechanics: Backspin Tee

The Backspin Batting Tee photo courtesy: BackSpinTee.com

Taylor Gardner told me a story about when his hitting mentor Matt Nokes was telling him of when Hank Aaron, shortly after retiring, was ‘touring’ MLB ballparks taking batting practice and playing home run derby.

Hank Aaron wound up crossing paths with Matt Nokes, where a young Nokes asked him what he was trying to do when he hit.  Hank Aaron shared that he was always attempting to hit the bottom half of the baseball.

Traditional batting tees can promote baseball batting mechanics that hit the top half, especially with younger hitters, because they generally fear hitting the tee and knocking it over.

This can have a cascade effect, mechanically speaking, causing a hitter to swing down on the ball.

The BackSpin Tee turns the traditional tee upside down…literally.  Try and swing up or down on a BackSpin Tee and you’ll hit the rubber tee cone, miss the ball completely, and/or get a weak result.  Instant feedback.  Ineffective outcomes.

The BackSpin Tee promotes ‘On Path Bottom Half’.

 

Hitting Training For Baseball & Softball Swing Trainers | Hitting Performance Lab

Discover the Backspin Batting Tee, which is the best high school baseball, fastpitch, and slow pitch softball professional hitting trainer for learning how to hit more line drives instead of ground balls.  See how it works in this drill review…

Backspin Batting Tee: The Quickest & Easiest Way to Drive the Ball Using A Baseball Hitting Tee

 

 

 

Batting Tees: The Ugly Truth Baseball Hitting Tee Interview

Meet the Backspin Batting Tee team. Photo courtesy: BackSpinTee.com

This is the first in a 3-part baseball hitting tee interview series…

One of the most frustrating things for coaches I’m in touch with (myself included) is finding minds that think alike when it comes to applying human movement science to hitting.

In other words, how do we separate the “weeds” from the grass?  Below is an interview I did with one of the three hitting and movement experts, Taylor Gardner and his innovative batting tee.

First a brief introduction…

Taylor Gardner is the inventor of the Backspin batting tee (I carry the Backspin Tee at TheStartingLineupStore.com), that received “Best In Show” Awards at the 2015 American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) Convention in Orlando, Florida.  The baseball hitting tee concept is really simple really, practice hitting the bottom half of the ball (see video above).

At the convention, Taylor had a coach come up to his booth, take swings off his Backspin batting tee, and said that it was nearly impossible to swing “down” on the ball, because of the batting tee design.

The “ugly truth” about the batting tee?

BackSpin Batting Tee

Photo courtesy: BackSpinTee.com

…If youth hitters aren’t coached properly, then they’ll default to hitting the top half of the ball, to avoid knocking the tee over.  Taylor’s Backspin baseball hitting tee turn this ugly truth on it’s head…literally 😛

Not only did Taylor breath new life into the batting tee, but he’s a student of hitting.  He uses human movement science like we do.  I met him on my Facebook fanpage, and after a couple interactions, I had to interview him for the HPL blog…

 

Taylor Gardner BackSpin Baseball Hitting Tee Interview…

If you were to train me for four weeks for a HUGE tournament and had a million dollars on the line, what would the training look like? What if I trained for eight weeks?

TG: With 4-weeks of training

…we would have time to adjust any swing path flaws with video analysis so that everyone was seeing the same movements. We would do positional strength test to show if their are any weak points in the swing that might be causing a dropping barrel.

Your grip would be looked at to ensure that at contact both wrist were close to 90 degrees, and then keep that grip (don’t just change it for comfort).

Simple soft-toss from in front would show any basic timing issues, as well as your ability to get in position to the ball on time to use a proper swing path. Bad positioning at landing can cause hitters to change their swings regardless.

I practice a “1st baseman” drill where you train your eyes to step towards a ball before you catch it (Learned from Barry Bonds) to help your body learn how to get to the pitch more efficiently.

Depending on how good your timing, body positions, and swing path were, we could then move onto any movements in the body that might need more exaggeration, for example: if you were very stiff with your legs, and had a hard time getting to lower pitches, we could do variations of tee work and soft toss to exaggerate that one body movement, and these same techniques would apply if you had connection problems with your arms, hands, head movement, etc that may need to be fixed more quickly.

After your technique is sufficient in the 4 week time frame, I would have you learn how to “time” a pitcher and practice different fastball speeds. For example: if you are facing mostly 80mph pitching and slower, we would practice speeds of batting practice (with the new exaggerated movements now set) that were no quicker than .47 seconds out of the pitcher’s hand to the front of the plate (a simple stopwatch would get us close).

If you were facing 90mph then we would train your stride timing to adjust to .40 seconds, but no faster. Pitcher’s don’t accidentally throw their fastest pitch 10mph faster….In the 4 weeks we would conquer the technique of the swing first before seeing live pitching. You came to change your swing, and 4 weeks is plenty of time to make physical adjustments, the rest of the time would be focused on the timing and reaction to positions in the zone.

If I had 8-weeks with you,

Backspin Batting Tee

Photo courtesy: BackSpinTee.com

…we would take the same approach, I don’t believe their are quick fixes, unless your swing is already close to doing the right movements, but I would ask you questions about the approach at the plate, and we would keep it as simple as possible. The pitcher throws his fastball 70%+ most of the time, so you can trust that that is what you will see.

You can always buy time (wait) in the swing, but you cannot speed up faster than your body will allow. You would learn to set your timing approach up to hit that particular pitcher’s speed, then time your stride accordingly. Some hitters need to wait longer, or start sooner depending on their tendencies.

Your set up (assuming isn’t an issue) would be able to swing level to a high pitch (considered a pitcher’s mistake in Pro ball) because it is the easiest pitch to get to the bottom half of the ball, and would learn to adjust to the height adjustment of off speed and swing to the pitch accordingly.

Every physical movement that would be instructed would have your own style to it. There is no cookie cutter swing, only movements (and maybe some variations of those movements) that were backed by facts and studied knowledge that can be performed by the human body.

Getting on path with the pitch, hitting the middle/bottom half of the ball at a contact point that is proven for max energy connection into the ball would be taught. How high or low you consistently hit balls (angles) is more important than pulling it or going to opposite field. This has been proven time, and time again.

 

What makes you different? Who trained you or influenced you?

TG: Matt Nokes (Silver Slugger Award Winner, New York Yankees) Boots Day (Montreal Expos, and knew Ted Williams), Jarrett Gardner, Professional Pitching Coach

 

What are your favorite instructional books or resources on the subject? If people had to teach themselves, what would you suggest they use?

TG: DVD-Pyramid Of Hitting. Training tool-The Back Spin Batting Tee.

 

What are the biggest mistakes and myths you see in hitting? What are the biggest wastes of time?

TG: Hit the top of the ball to make it rise with backspin. Soft-toss from behind the hitter. Your hips are your main source for power. Quick hands. Pulling with the bottom hand, and pushing with the top hand. You can stay “through” a ball longer if you try, the ball only stays on the bat .0007 seconds, no matter how you hit it. Swing down and through a ball. Keep your hands inside the ball. Get your foot down early. You have to have a straight front leg to hit. You have to rotate your back foot for power. “Don’t worry about timing, just react to the pitcher.” Foul off offspeed and wait for fastball. They all are a waste of time, and I can explain how.

Thank you Taylor!

Here’s how you can stay updated with Taylor Gardner and his BackSpin batting tee:

Please direct baseball hitting tee questions and comments below…

Mini wiffle Ball Pitching Machine MaxBP Reviews

Discover the best portable mini wiffle ball pitching machine out there.  In this 2022 review of the MaxBP wiffle ball pitching machine, you’ll learn about the greatest small ball training tool!

Mini Wiffle Ball Pitching Machine MaxBP Reviews: What Does It Mean To ‘Build The Database’ When It Comes To Hitting?

 

 

Mini wiffle Ball Pitching Machine MaxBP Reviews

Wiffle Ball Pitching Machine MaxBP Reviews

In this mini wiffle ball pitching machine MaxBP reviews interview with owner and founder of MaxBP Neil McConnel, we’ll go over:

  • You’re doing a lot of really big things over the last year or two? Go ahead and let them know what you guys are up to?
  • What are some of those tools? I know you have a bunch of them, but say like top two or so outside of the actual pitching machines?
  • It’s not just about a whiffle ball pitching machine to hit on?
  • What does it mean to ‘build the database’ when it comes to hitting?
  • You guys have done a lot of cool stuff with using max BP with catchers, how do you guys use that?
  • “Where you’re making them make a decision and ignoring one color versus being locked into another color…”
  • “You can honestly get work in and probably 10-15 feet. 20 feet is a good space….”
  • Do you guys test them before they go out?
  • Where can people find you, the website, the social media, all that good stuff?

CLICK HERE for the mini wiffle ball pitching machine MaxBP reviews video transcription in PDF form.

ENJOY!