How to Increase Softball Pitching Speed

Learning how to become an effective pitcher in softball is a process that takes many years. Learning the correct form is the start, then adding power and speed to the pitch comes later. A pitcher can work to throw her pitches with more speed, using several drills and practices.

Instructions

    • 1

      Stretch your hamstrings and lower back before you begin warming up. The looser your muscles, the better the chance you have of throwing hard. The best way to stretch out your hamstrings from a pitching perspective is to sit down on the ground and spread your legs. Extend your right leg and put your arms down by your right leg. Lower your chin toward your right leg. Get as low as you can without bouncing. Do this 15 times. Then do the same stretch toward the left leg. After you are done stretching, do three 30-yard sprints across the outfield. This should get your legs and hamstrings loose, and you should be ready to pitch.

    • 2

      Start warming up on the mound. Build your arm strength by taking two steps back after you have thrown five pitches. Take two steps back every five pitches. Keep going until you can no longer throw strikes. Ideally, you will be able to do this from somewhere close to second base. This will build arm strength.

    • 3

      Use a weighted ball to practice your pitching. A normal game-condition softball weighs 6 1/4 oz. However, you can buy softballs that weigh 8 to 11 oz. If you have a heavy softball, throw 15 to 20 practice pitches per practice session with the heavier ball to develop speed and power. If you can't find a heavier ball, take an older practice ball and drive 1 1/2-inch finishing nails along the seams for extra weight. Each nail should add an ounce to the weight of the ball.

    • 4

      Pitch to your catcher on one knee. Get 20 to 25 feet away from the catcher, then get on your right knee and pitch from that knee. You are not using your legs to pitch. Instead, you are using just your arm. If you do not have a catcher, you can do this by positioning yourself about 10 feet away from a 10-foot chain-link fence.

    • 5

      Snap your wrist to build finishing speed in your pitch. Get about 15 to 20 feet from your catcher. Start with your hand at your side and then snap your wrist forward. This is how to finish your pitch. For this drill, you will just try to finish. This will help you bring more power to your pitches.