How to Teach Softball Pitching

Learning to pitch in softball requires arm strength, coordination, concentration and confidence. In order to consistently get the ball over the plate in a place where the batter will not be able to handle the ball, the pitcher also has to use her mind to out-think the batter. The mental part of pitching comes after the pitcher has learned the fundamentals. More advanced softball pitchers use a full-arm circle to get more velocity on the ball. Since this piece is about teaching how to pitch, it will not include that advanced style.

Instructions

    • 1

      Warm up properly before taking the mound. That means stretching out your arms, core muscles and legs. Play long toss in the outfield with one of your teammates. You and your teammate should be at least 50 feet apart and you should play catch for about six to eight minutes.

    • 2

      Stand on the pitcher's mound with your feet about 12 to 14 inches apart and your hands at your sides. Your neck, back, chest and shoulder muscles should feel loose and relaxed.

    • 3

      Grip the ball across the laces. You will notice the stitching on the softball forms the letter "U" when you are looking down at it. Instead of gripping the ball along the "U," grip it across the "U." This will allow you to deliver the ball cleanly when you throw your fastball, which is the key pitch you will start out throwing.

    • 4

      Bring your hands together in front of your body. You are now ready to begin your pitch. Bring your pitching arm backwards to the point where your arm is level with the ground. Now bring your arm forward. As you start to approach home plate with your arm, do the same with your front leg. Take a long step forward towards home and as that foot hits the ground, continue forward with your arm and release the ball.

    • 5

      Finish the pitch by continuing forward with your arm once you have let go of the ball. You can start to relax once the ball is on its way toward home plate, but bring the arm forward. Do not let it go across your body. That's how you can develop elbow and shoulder problems.