How to Do a Pop-Up Slide in Baseball

Sliding into a base is a common occurrence in baseball, but a skill that is difficult to master. Sliding allows you to avoid slowing down when running from base to base, and helps prevent collisions between players. The pop-up slide is a technique for coming out of a slide quickly so you can keep running to the next base if an opportunity presents itself. Learning the proper way to do a pop-up slide can help your team win and help you avoid injury.

Instructions

    • 1

      Start a feet-first slide at full speed at least 9 feet in front of the base. Do not jump, tumble or slow down as you go into your slide. Instead, sit down as you run.

    • 2

      Bend your left leg into a V with your right leg straight out on top of it. Sit down leaning toward your left side. Keep your head up and your hands above you to avoid injury.

    • 3

      Dig your spikes into the base or dirt in front of it as soon your right foot, the leading foot, touches the bag. Use your bent leg to push up from the ground. You should pop up right onto the base and be in a perfect position to read the play and advance if needed.