- Understanding the 3 Stages of Learning – It is almost impossible for the beginner to make permanent gains in velocity in a short period of time. Even if you are not a beginner, it is extremely difficult. If you do not have a good understanding of the 3 stages of learning then you could easily become frustrated to the point of quitting just before you experience the results you were working for. I recommend that you read this article on the 3 stages of learning so you will have a good idea of when and how your velocity will improve. http://www.topvelocity.net/3-stages-of-learning/
- Above Average Strength to Weight Ratio – This is the biggest killer of most pitching velocity programs; they are not designed to improve strength to weight ratio. This means the pitcher has the ability to move more weight than they actually weigh. If high velocity pitchers have longer and faster strides than low velocity pitchers, then this should tell you that high velocity pitchers have better strength to weight ratios. Velocity will not improve significantly until a pitcher’s strength to weight ratio is in the positive.
- Triple Extension Training – This is the secret behind a revolutionary approach to increase pitching velocity called 3X Pitching. This approach has proven that implementing the mechanical component of triple extension before front foot strike, along with a series of other components to support triple extension, will not only max out a pitchers ability to build power, but it will also create explosive hip rotation at front foot strike. Without achieving this component, within your delivery, this is preventing you from reaching your top velocity. This component must be trained within both your throwing program and your strength and conditioning program.
- Increased Hip to Shoulder Separation – The National Pitching Association in 2005-2006, in their famous Velocity Study, proved that 80% of a pitchers velocity comes from his hip to shoulder separation at front foot strike. All low velocity pitchers have poor hip to shoulder separation. The key to enhancing this hip to shoulder separation is through triple extension and developing core strength. To improve this component it must be a part of a pitchers throwing and strength and conditioning program. I recommend reading the study here http://www.nationalpitching.net/SUV_NPA.pdf
- Learning the Olympic Lifts – It is scientifically proven that there is no better, more effective lift in the weight room for enhancing power production than through the Olympic cleans. High velocity pitchers are able to produce high levels of power through their strides, which is proven to be the source of their high velocities. These lifts are extremely technical and I highly recommend that you are supervised by a certified USA weightlifting coach when learning these lifts. Follow this link to find a trainer in your area. http://weightlifting.teamusa.org/club-lwc-local-info/find-a-club
If your current training program does not incorporate any or some of these hard facts to increase pitching velocity then you need to re-evaluate your program and make a decision to either improve the program you already have or move into a program that uses these hard facts like the 3X Pitching Velocity program.
