How to Throw a Softball

Being able to throw the ball in softball is essential to the game. With practice, getting the ball to your desired target, instead of through a neighbor's window, will be a breeze.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Softball Cleats
• Softball Fielding Gloves
• Softballs
• Softballs

Overhand

1. Know that the overhand throw is both easier and more accurate.

2. Grip the ball with your fingertips, using hardly any of your palm. Use either two or three fingers and your thumb to hold the ball, folding the others in toward your palm.

3. Turn your head toward your target.

4. Rotate your body sideways, extending your glove toward the target for balance.

5. Pull the ball back.

6. Throw - your arm goes up and out to your target, your wrist snapping just as the ball is released. Your thumb comes off the ball first, and then your fingertips do.

7. Follow through by moving your arm out and down across your body.

Sidearm

8. Use the sidearm throw if the distance of the throw is shorter or you don't have time to straighten up before throwing. This is a much faster throw.

9. Place your weight on your rear foot, your upper body slightly rotated and flexed forward.

10. Bend the elbow of your throwing arm, keeping it higher than your wrist, and bring it back between your waist and shoulder.

11. Cock your wrist with the back of your hand facing up. As your weight transfers forward, your upper body rotates toward the side opposite your throwing arm.

12. Bring your arm around to your side - almost parallel to the ground.

13. Rotate your forearm, snap your wrist and release the ball with your arm following through.

Tips & Warnings

• Softball is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek the proper equipment and training before undertaking this activity.

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[coachlia]

on 6/24/2009 Learning and being consistent in the proper throwing mechanics is what each fielder should aim for. Having proper mechanics will lessen injuries as well. Avoid side arm throw as not to stress the elbow joint.

[sc8erboy]

on 1/20/2007 I found out that if you throw overhand it will go farther if you throw it high and hard, but not to high.

on 8/8/2006 Sometimes we throw from different angles, distances, positions, etc. Remember, make sure your catcher/partner is looking. Throw to your partner, not at them. Hold the ball high and away from your body. Your fingers should point toward the target at the release point. And follow through toward the ground. Remember; accuracy is more important than speed!

on 6/30/2006 Make sure when you throw the ball that you throw the ball, so you don't hurt yourself. Throw correctly or get some practice from an adult or experienced pitcher.

on 11/22/2005 Use a heavy object to practice throwing. This will target the exact muscles used in your throw.