A highly competitive type of softball, fastpitch is played in many softball leagues and the Olympics. It uses an underhand throw that is often described as a windmill type of movement. As the name implies, fastpitch softball requires players to pitch the ball at a high speed, up to 77 miles per hour for women and 105 miles per hour for men.
The stringent requirements of the sport compel coaches and players to put in a lot of effort in mastering pitches. In this matter, a radar speed gun can be a strong ally.
This blog will explore the benefits of using a speed gun in fastpitch training.
Qualities of a Good Fastpitch Pitcher
The importance of sports radar guns in fastpitch softball is rooted in the specific requirements of the sport. First, the pitcher must throw the ball up to the required speed. Next, the pitcher must ensure the ball will fly far enough so the team can steal as many bases as they can.
During training sessions, coaches hone the players’ pitching skills in terms of:
- Accuracy – The pitching speed must follow the required speed for the player’s respective category.
- Consistency – Pitchers do not pitch on close speed rates by accident. They refine their pitching speed consistency during practices.
- Power – Power is directly proportional to speed. In fastpitch softball, improving the pitch speed is crucial, not only to meet the required rate but also to enhance the power of the throws.
- Technique – While the pitch must be underhand, there are several techniques to throw the ball for a fast pitch. Measuring which technique yields the fastest throw is vital to game plays.
How Can a Speed Gun Help?
A sports radar gun provides objective data on pitch speed. When used in fastpitch softball training, a speed gun can help with:
Speed Measurement: It accurately measures the speed of pitches, allowing the coach to see how fast each player throws the ball. This immediate feedback helps the team understand their current performance.
Progress Tracking: Players can track their progress over time with recorded pitch speeds. This can motivate them to improve and refine their techniques.
Technique Assessment: Coaches can identify which throwing technique players should use (or are more comfortable doing) by measuring the speed of pitches using different techniques.
Goal Setting: The team can set specific speed goals and see if the players are reaching them through the radar readings. This can create targeted training sessions focused on benchmarks.
Overall, a radar gun is a great tool to combine data-driven insights with practical training, helping pitchers improve their performance effectively.
Choose Stalker Pro II Wireless LED Display Package for Your Fastpitch Training
When it comes to measuring and recording data for fastpitch softball training, nothing comes close to the efficiency Stalker Pro II Wireless LED Display Package offers. Complete with a pitching speed gun, durable tripod, wireless LED display, and cables, this package is easy to bring and set up during training sessions.
Start a comprehensive and data-driven fastpitch training today! Order the Stalker Pro II Wireless LED Display Package or visit Radar Sports LLC for inquiries.