PVC Posture and Turn Drill: A Comprehensive Guide for Young Baseball Players
This drill is designed to help young baseball players improve their posture and turning technique while hitting. It’s particularly beneficial for those who struggle with maintaining proper posture or rotating effectively during their swing.
Equipment:
- PVC pipe (approximately 5 feet long)
- PVC T-joint
Setup:
- Place the T-joint on the ground, ensuring it’s as low as possible.
- Position the T-joint even with the hitter’s back hip. This encourages turning on the backside while staying balanced behind the front leg.
Drill Execution:
- Hold the PVC pipe in the hitter’s elbows, instructing them to keep their elbows raised at approximately shoulder level.
- The hitter can then practice hitting, focusing on different parts of the swing:
- Load: Initiate the swing by shifting weight to the back leg.
- Launch: Transition from the load position into the swing.
- Swing: Execute the swing, maintaining proper posture and rotation.
Key Considerations:
- T-Joint Placement: Avoid placing the T-joint too far in front, as this can cause the hitter to lunge toward the ball, disrupting their balance and swing mechanics.
- Posture: Ensure the T-joint isn’t set too high, as this prevents effective posture correction and can lead to the hitter standing upright and pulling the front shoulder out.
- Over-Rotation: During the load phase, monitor the front side of the PVC pipe to prevent it from moving behind the ball. This helps prevent over-rotation and keeps the hitter’s eyes focused on the pitcher.
Tips and Tricks:
- Vary the pitch location: Adjust the tee or pitching machine to challenge the hitter with inside, outside, and middle pitches.
- Incorporate visual cues: Use cones or markers to help the hitter track the ball and maintain focus.
- Focus on balance: Encourage the hitter to maintain a stable base throughout the swing.
- Adjust the drill to focus on specific weaknesses: If a hitter struggles with posture, spend more time focusing on the setup and initial stages of the swing. If they struggle with turning, emphasize the load and launch phases.
Call to Action:
Ready to take your hitting to the next level? Try incorporating the PVC posture and turn drill into your training routine! Share your progress and any tips you discover in the comments below. Let’s help each other become better hitters!
