Tuesday, July 14, 2009

What Mistakes Can You Avoid When Looking For The Best Softball Pitching Clinics

By Monica Martinez

Are you tired of finding softball pitching clinics with the experience of rec ball players? Want to find a clinic that actually knows what they are doing? Luckily, I have spent many years pitching and instructing while attending numerous events, and I have picked up on some important tips I would like to share with you to make the process of finding the best softball pitching clinics that much easier. First, a common mistake made by these camps is how long they will let their pitchers practice for. Six hours drills are not helpful. In fact they can be down right dangerous to a pitchers arm.

Another typical error in a softball pitching clinic is failing to take into account the amount of catchers. Usually the number of catchers is much less than the amount of pitchers. Its unfair to expect a catcher to spend the entire time catching for a pitcher. Some camps use pitchers to catch for pitchers. This is not a smart alternative. It can be dangerous due to the lack of experience.

Setting up nets to pitch into is a great substitute for catchers. This method however requires many nets and multiple balls for the pitchers to use. Using a net provides a target for the pitcher which is beneficial. Once they pitched every ball into the net or fence, theyll have to retrieve them all themselves.

Some of the better softball pitching clinics I have been a part of have variation in their time allotted. For example, an extensive warm up is important for safety reasons. As a concept is presented, drills breaking down that concept allow for better understanding. This can also put less pressure on the pitchers arm. Frequent water breaks must be in the plan for proper hydration as well as a snack being provided.

I have been involved in a softball pitching clinic where the campers have been able to take home quality information to help them to continue to improve. Such as a side by side video of the campers pitching form compared to a professional pitchers form. The campers were also given a personalized booklet with skills and drills for the pitcher to look back on.

Keep in mind, a softball pitching clinic can help improve any pitcher, but most of the time; they are their own pitching coach. - 16887

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