Slow Pitch Techniques and Tips

These days, physical fitness is of paramount importance in all our lives.  It’s hard to miss news report after news report detailing the increased obesity among the American population. There are many options for getting your daily physical fitness routine in, and there is no reason to depend solely on a treadmill and dumbbells at the gym.   For those who prefer to play for fitness, there is the option of joining an intramural sports team. Many communities have teams of all kinds to offer adults an opportunity to have fun, socialize, and stay in shape. Slow pitch softball remains one of the most popular intramural sports in which to participate. For those new to slow pitch, it’s natural to have questions or concerns about slow pitch softball pitching techniques.  Not to worry! It’s not hard to understand the basics.

 

Slowpitch softball techniques vary pretty dramatically from techniques used in baseball. The ball does not move with the same speed, thus, it’s important to learn to exploit the slow speed to strike out a batter. If you come from a baseball background, it will take some adjustment to learn how to pitch underhand; rest assured, with practice it can be done!

 

The foundational straight pitch is the bedrock of slow pitch; this is where one puts his or her index finger over the left seam, with their middle finger next to it.  Placing the thumb along the bottom of the softball, between the seams, is the proper positioning for the thumb.  Move your index and middle finger away from one another, and this will veer the softball to the right.

 

You can also do a slider pitch, which is where the softball curves at the end of the throw. Where to lay the fingers is the same as the straight pitch, except the thumb is closer to the index finger. Grip tightly with the ring finger and pinky finger, and the softball flies steady. Finally, avoid twisting the wrist for the perfect slider pitch!

 

This is just the beginning of the various pitching techniques that exist for slow pitch player. The list of reasons to join your local intramural softball team is long, including improving your physical fitness and getting out in the fresh air. Not only are they many physical benefits, but it’s a great opportunity to meet new friends.  Of course, when getting started, perfect slow pitch softball pitching techniques and learn how to pitch underhand.  It’ll be well worth the effort when the game is won!