How to Measure the Speed of a Person or Ball in Softball

Speed is crucial in the game of softball, especially fast-pitch softball. "It can change the game's dynamic," according to Jason Pullara, strength and conditioning coach at Northwestern University. Tracking the speed of a pitched ball with precision does require specialized equipment---a radar gun. But by using the simple formula for average speed---distance divided by time---you can gain speed data for a baserunner with scarcely more than a stopwatch and a little mathematics.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Stop watch
  • Radar gun
Show More

Instructions

  1. Baserunner Speed

    • 1

      Measure the distance the player will travel---the distance between bases, for instance. According to the Amateur Softball Association, the standard distance between bases is 60 feet, but some leagues and fields can vary.

    • 2

      Run the player over the distance and time the player using the stopwatch. In the example, it took the player three seconds to travel from one base to another base.

    • 3

      Divide the distance by the time to determine average speed. In the example, 60 feet divided by three seconds equals 20 feet per second.

    • 4

      Convert feet per second to miles per hour. To do so, multiply 20 by 0.682, the conversion factor, according to the California State University Department of Chemistry. The result is 13.6 miles per hour.

    Ball Speed

    • 5

      Measure the speed of a pitched ball using a radar gun. Begin by checking to be sure the radar gun is fully charged.

    • 6

      Position yourself directly behind the catcher. The instructions with your particular radar gun will guide you as to how far back you should be, but typically a distance of around 30 feet is ideal.

    • 7

      Aim the radar gun as the pitcher begins her windup, then press the trigger as the pitcher releases the ball. The radar gun will sound a beep and and speed of the pitch will appear on the screen.