Slow-Pitch Softball Hitting Tips

Hitting or pitching is relatively much easier in softball as compared to baseball. The skills required to play this game are batting, pitching and catching. You can call over your buddies, form a team and enjoy the game in your own way, or even form a team and play some tournaments. The equipment or kit for the game is readily available in any sports store. The following tips provide an insight into the finer aspects of playing slow-pitch softball.

The Art of Hitting a Slow-Pitch Softball

1. Choosing the bat.

A systematic approach to the game requires you to choose the right bat which suits your grip and is comfortable to swing and hit. The most crucial factor in hitting slow-pitch softball is timing and power. In order to produce the hardest hit, delivered with maximum power, you need to generate tremendous bat speed. Therefore, it is important that you select a bat which is neither too heavy nor too light. There has been a popular belief that heavier bats allow more powerful hits, but research over the years has pointed out that it might not necessarily be the case. A very heavy bat may in fact, reduce the speed after the bat hits the ball. A 28-ounce bat is recommended as it gives the player both the speed and flexibility to swing his arms.

2. Studying the pitcher.

It is equally important to study the pitcher, maybe even go through softball pitching instructions, and try to predict how the ball will come and which way it would swing. The pitching instructions will give you an idea to anticipate the various styles and tricks the pitcher is permitted to use while pitching. Once you get the judgment of how the ball will come, time your stroke to hit the ball at the right moment to generate maximum hitting power. Generally, most of the slow-pitch bats, of around 28-ounces are convenient for hitting. The bat speed is more important than weight for getting the maximum speed.

3. The grip.

Another major factor in batting is the grip, which again can vary according to the likes and comfort level of the players. Just like the bats, there are certain grips which are fancied by many players. An example is a bat knob between the ring and pinkie finger. The upper hand almost overlaps the lower one, in this grip position. A grip with two or three fingers of the top hand overlapping the lower one, can generate decent bat speed.

Tips to Improve your Game

Practice as much as you can, as they say, 'There are no short cuts to success'. The more you practice, the more easy it will be for you to estimate what pitch is being directed towards you. It will make you adept at reckoning all types of slow-pitch softball pitching. Once the bat makes contact with the ball, complete the stroke fully, even after the impact. The natural swing should be followed through completely, even after hitting the ball. The bat should be held loose, but at the same time, ensure that it does not slip out of hand. The hit should be aimed at the lower part of the ball. This maximizes the distance it travels with an increase in the spin. There must be a gradual shift of weight from the back foot to the front foot as the stroke is executed. The shoulder should be lifted slightly during the swing and should not drop back. The thrust of the hands in the direction of the pitcher will deviate the ball and prevent it from being caught by the pitcher. Concentrate hard on driving the ball and completing the swinging motion throughout. One of the most important tips, crucial for any sport, is regular exercise. It is absolutely essential that you get your body in top condition with good flexibility for good generating power. You can also work on the conventional muscle building exercises and begin practice with a plastic ball.

Slow-pitch softball hitting tips will be successful if executed with minimum effort, without injury or other such complication. Softball rules and regulations, though mostly similar to baseball, differ in a few aspects, which you should be aware of before playing the game. While you focus on the details of the game, do not forget to enjoy the moment and have fun with your playmates.