INFO ON PRO SOFTBALL | HOME | COACHES | SUBSCRIBE || PAGE 1 of 1 | ||
I am often asked by players, "What do I need to do to become a great hitter?" When I am working with hitters, I focus on developing three main characteristics; correct technique, mental toughness, and discipline.
During drills, hitters should be visualizing what type of pitch they are hitting (curve, rise, drop, etc.) and the location of the pitch (down-in, down-out, etc...). This will help to train their muscles to react accordingly. Then, when hitters are in a game situation, they will recognize the pitch and automatically react. Only after batters can perform a dry swing with good technique should they begin swinging at a moving ball.
Athletes can spend 20 minutes or 2 hours a day on hitting. It is not the quantity of time spent that will determine success, but rather the quality of practice. Practice does not make perfect. PERFECT PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT. Going through the physical motions in practice is not enough. Hitters must visualize themselves performing that skill in a game situation. This allows your mind to make the association for your body. In a real game your mind will see A and cause your body to react by doing B. By creating the intensity and pressure of a game situation during drills, hitters can work on mental toughness and discipline in a meaningful way. |
||
|