How to Pitch With Power
Pitching with power isn't easy. It takes the combination of dedication, work ethic and a burning desire to succeed. Fortunately there are several ways to improve arm strength, which is a necessity for the power pitcher. Learn these methods by reading the steps below.
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Instructions
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Study the greats. Current power pitchers like Roger Clemens, Curt Schilling and Billy Wagner continue to mow down batters with their blazing fastballs. Check your local (cable or satellite) network for baseball games involving any of these pitchers and study their every move.
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Learn from the greats. Buy Nolan Ryan's Pitcher's Bible (see links below). This book is packed with exercises, strategies and tips that will get you inside the head of the Ryan Express.
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Start an exercise and strengthening program. Perform more repetitions and less heavy weights with the upper body. In contrast, your legs should be developed through fairly heavy lifting and aerobic training. Be sure to consult with a sports or athletic trainer before beginning any exercise program.
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Learn to long toss. This age old exercise takes about 10 minutes to complete and has helped numerous baseball players to increase their arm strength. To long toss, simply get with a friend and begin light tossing at a short distance. Gradually increase the distance in increments of 60 feet tossing for 2 to 3 minutes at each interval. Increase the distance until you reach 180 or 200 feet. End with a light cool down, tossing for 2 minutes.
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Perfect your pitching mechanics. Good pitching form will put you in the proper position to get the most out of your body. The more efficient your delivery, the more power you will get into every pitch. Consult with a baseball coach that you trust who can observe your delivery and offer suggestions.
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Throw everyday. According to pitching coach Leo Mazzone, the best way to improve arm strength is to "throw everyday without maxing out your effort." Mazzone believes that players should play catch "every chance (they) get" and throw year round rather than taking 3 or 4 months off.
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