How To

How to Hit a Softball Correctly

Contributor
By William D. Gardlock
eHow Contributing Writer
(1 Ratings)
Lead with your hands.
Lead with your hands.

Whether you are an improving softball player or a novice just looking for a fun activity, understanding the key elements of hitting a softball correctly will lead you to solid contact each and every time.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Batters helmet
  • Batting glove
  • Softball
  • Softball bat
  • Pitcher/machine
  1. Step 1

    Grip. Your knuckles should be aligned with one another, and your grip should be fairly strong. Apply more strength with the bottom hand.

  2. Step 2

    Stance and balance. With your knees bent slightly, your feet should be a little more than shoulder width apart. Your arms should be up with forearms at chin level. Elbows should be down. It should look like an upside down "V." Keep your weight distribution even between both feet.

  3. Step 3

    Step and "squash the bug." Take a small step forward with your front foot, slightly shifting your weight to your back foot. As you take the forward step, pivot the ball of your back foot. Many people refer to this as squashing a bug. These two motions give your swing its power by opening up the hips.

  4. Step 4

    Lead with your hands. Keeping your chest closed, pull the knob of the bat toward the ball. Do not dip the back shoulder; keep your body square. Keep your eyes fixed on the ball until after contact.

Tips & Warnings
  • Practice your swing over and over. Look in the mirror, tape yourself, go in slow motion. It may sound a little silly, but you will learn your strengths and flaws while doing it.
  • Always wear a protective helmet to avoid severe injury.

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