How to Pitch Harder

The perfect fastball must have proper aim and be thrown hard. The harder the ball is thrown, the faster it travels, making it more difficult for the batter to hit. Refining how hard you pitch will enable you to master specific pitching methods. Whether you're trying to impress a college scout, preparing for a crucial game or just perfecting your throwing motion, learning how to pitch harder will help improve your game.

Things You'll Need

  • Radar gun
  • Notebook
  • Pen
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Instructions

    • 1

      Start an exercise regimen to strengthen the muscles in your shoulder. These muscles are the main ones used when pitching a ball. Practice lifting weights and carrying dumbbells during regular exercise. Ask your coach or a personal trainer for a recommendation on how much weight you should be lifting. The amount varies depending on your individual fitness level.

    • 2

      Stretch before and after every workout or pitching session. Allowing your shoulder muscles to warm up and cool down will help keep you from pulling a muscle. Stretch your arms, shoulders and the rest of your body for 10 to 15 minutes each time.

    • 3

      Practice long-tossing with someone. Long-tossing is throwing a ball across a long distance. Start with short throws at approximately 60 feet from your partner. After three minutes, move back 30 feet. Throw at 90 feet for another three minutes. Move back an additional 30 feet and throw at 120 feet for three minutes. Move forward to the 60 foot mark to cool down and throw for three minutes.

    • 4

      Keep a journal of your pitching experiences. Write down where you are practicing, who you are with, what time of day it is and how you are feeling. Record any additional information that may be useful. Go over your journal entries every week. There may be a trend that helps you find out when you pitch your best.

    • 5

      Ask someone to help you track your pitching velocity. The harder a pitch is thrown, the faster it travels. Use a radar gun to track the speed of each pitch and record it in your journal. Compare your stats each week to ensure you are improving. If you don't have access to a radar gun, check with a local baseball stadium about borrowing one or using one on their field.