The Definition of Windmill Pitch

Windmill pitching is an underhand pitch used in advanced levels of fast-pitch softball. Softball is often played in female or coed leagues. The game is played following rules similar to baseball, with a slightly larger ball, and it was invented in Chicago in 1887. Fast-pitch softball players are generally more talented and experienced that slow-pitch softball players.

  1. Windmill Pitch

    • Once on the mound, windmill pitching requires the pitcher to extend both arms toward the target, then revolve the pitching arm up over the head like a windmill. The pitching arm is whipped as hard as possible forward once it is level with the shoulder, and the ball is released. The pitcher should not move her feet during the rotation and keep the pitching arm in line with the target throughout the pitch.

    Practice Tips

    • Mastering the windmill pitch requires many practice sessions so your body learns the pitch by muscle memory, meaning you can complete the pitch without thinking about it. Roll the ball off the tips of your fingers when you release it. It is a good idea to practice the same pitch more than 10 times in a row, and you should repeat that number of pitches if you have to correct an error in your technique.

    History of Fast-Pitch Softball

    • Several professional female softball leagues were formed since the 1880s, the most recent being the International Women's Professional Softball League in 1976. The league closed for financial reasons in 1980. Since 1980, the popularity of and participation in fast-pitch softball has grown. The U.S. women's softball team has won gold medals and broken records during the Olympic Summer Games. Records broken in 2004 by Team USA included most wins, most hits and most runs.

    Risk of Injury

    • The pitching arm's bicep can become overused and injured from the windmill pitch. Compared with overhand pitching, the bicep is used more and in an uncommon way. Many elite windmill pitchers suffer from chronic shoulder pain, which may be caused by repeating this pitching style. Focus on warming up the shoulder before pitching and completing careful and smooth motions during practice sessions.