What are the Basics of Hitting?
Just about all hitters have different styles but must use the same technique to properly tap into the
dynamics
and power of their specific physiques.
All we need do is look to scientific research in order
to discern the proper approach to hitting
mechanics. The problem arises when we look at a specific player and his so-called
basics. In reality, these so-called
basics are really only preferences
the individual needed to hit. The end result is a fantastic model for the individual
but way too often a flawed model for anyone else trying to imitate.
A Basic must conform to three criteria:
First, it must be something that virtually all productive batters perform the same;
Secondly, it should adhere to how the human body is intended to perform most dynamically and efficiently;
and Thirdly, it must conform to the laws of physics and motion.
What Are the Basics?
1. Level eyes - For tracking and for connecting hand-eye coordination and for
balance.
2. Balance - achieved by the proper pose in the stance.
3. Velocity of power - making use of the body's action.
4. Correct sequence - the most effective transfer of that acceleration of energy.
ln any kind of game, success comes from a consistent alignment of the physique that will make it possible for the player to produce his or her maximum force with as little wasted movement as possible.
This is especially true for the baseball/softball swing. The problem in studying the optimum
body alignment is that the swing action occurs too fast for our vision to register the movement. We frequently miss the biomechanical similarities of the finest hitters.
But understand this: All batters utilize the same vehicle or position to deliver their devastating
hits to a baseball/softball. And there is only one position that body eventually extends to in
providing maximum power. All great batters ultimately get to this
position.
Let’s begin with the way you hold the baseball bat - the grip. Your hands are the only part
of
the body that touches the baseball bat, thus it is essential that you hold the bat properly.
The project of the hands in the swing is to direct the bat to
the ball and
transfer the force produced by the body into the ball. The goal is to keep the bat in
the hitting area as long as possible with the hands flat (bottom hand palm up
and top hand palm down) through the hitting area while sustaining maximum speed.
Hitting in its most basic form is seeing the ball, adjusting to its
location and speed, and hitting the ball. That sounds simple but unless you
have set your body in a proper position to maximize its strengths, you will
fail time after time.
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