How to Swing a Baseball Bat

It's been argued that one of the hardest feats to accomplish in all of professional sports is to hit a fastball. Just hitting the ball with the bat is difficult to do, which is why professionals win batting titles by connecting on three out of ten pitches. By following these steps and lots of disciplined practice, you can learn how to hit that elusive pitch and perfect your baseball swing.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Baseball bat
• Batting gloves

1. Walk into the batter's box. Align your front foot with the back corner of home plate. Set your feet so they're shoulder-width apart and bend your knees.

2. Raise your bat. If you're right handed, grip the bat with your right hand on top. The opposite is the case if you're left handed. Ensure that your hands touch each other, with your knuckles aligned. Lightly touch the bottom knob of the bat with your bottom hand.

3. Position your right elbow--if you're batting right handed--parallel to the ground. Place your hands behind your back shoulder.

4. Shift your hips slightly and take a small step forward when the pitcher releases the ball. This movement can give your swing added power if you decide to hit the pitch.

5. Step toward the ball with the foot closest to the pitcher once you decide to hit the ball. Bring your elbow in, followed by your hands and back leg. You should come up on the ball of your back foot during follow-through.

6. Connect with the ball, continuing your swing all the way through. Your bat should stop behind your shoulder. Drop the bat after making a connection and run to first base.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear batting gloves when hitting so that the vibration when the bat connects with the ball can't affect your swing.
• Always keep your eye on the ball from the moment it leaves the pitcher's hand until after you hit it.
• Never throw the bat after hitting the ball since it could hit someone or obstruct the play.

Who Can Help:

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[gavo]

on 5/24/2009 This will definately help me improve. THANKS!