How to Measure Baseball Bat Speed
When a person is measuring bat speed, they are measuring the speed at which the player swings a baseball bat. The faster a player's bat speed, the faster and farther the ball will travel after making contact with the bat. A baseball or softball player can adapt his or her mechanics according to the type of swing that produces the fastest bat speed. Bat speed can be measured by using an electronic radar device designed to gauge the swing speed of a bat or golf club or of a thrown baseball. A variety of radar devices, starting at about $100, are available at sporting goods stores or Internet sites.
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Instructions
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Using a radar gun to measure bat speed
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Set up the electronic swing radar device at the height of your typical swing pattern. The most accurate readings will come when you take a swing as if you were swinging at a real pitch in a game.
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Place the radar device in front of the person testing his or her bat speed, about 6 feet away. The radar device can be mounted on a tripod or attached to a net or fence. If you want to practice hitting a ball while testing your bat speed, set up the device behind the hitter, level with his or her swing.
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Swing the bat with your normal swing style for the most accurate reading. Electronic radar devices measure the speed of the barrel of the bat, where hitters make contact with the ball.
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Tips & Warnings
Practice using heavy and light bats. A fast swing with a heavier bat will generally drive the ball farther than using a light bat with the same swing speed. Make sure the bat you choose is comfortable and is easily controlled with your swing style.
Be careful when swinging a heavy bat at fast speeds. You can lose control if you swing a heavy bat too quickly.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit baseball practice image by Yali Shi from Fotolia.com
