Competitive softball with modified pitching rules usually features more hitting and scoring than traditional fast-pitch softball. In modified softball, the pitcher is not allowed to use a windmill windup. She can bring her arm back to head height, but no further. Since pitchers don't get the benefit of an extended windup, she must find other ways to gain velocity with her pitching motion.
Step 1
Place both your feet on the pitching rubber to start your delivery. Your knees should be slightly bent as you start your motion. Bring your pitching arm back to shoulder level to prepare to throw hard. You are going to bring your weight forward and drive the ball to the plate. To deliver the ball with velocity, you have to have to come forward hard. Start by bringing your arm back as far as you can without exceeding head height.
Step 2
Take a 3- to 4-foot step with your left foot toward the plate as you come forward, if you are righthanded. This is a sizable step, but it is not the extended jump step you would use if you were pitching traditional fast-pitch with a windmill style. But a quick, hard step toward the plate will get your body moving forward and enable you to deliver a pitch with velocity.
Step 3
Bring your pitching arm forward, and release the ball when your hand gets just forward of your hip. This is the spot to release the ball for maximum power. It will get your core, hips, thigh, back and arm muscles involved in the pitch.
Step 4
Finish your delivery by bringing your arm up to chin level. This will help you throw a more accurate pitch, and it also will help you get every bit of velocity on your pitch that you can muster. Your pitching follow-through also will keep you from injuring your shoulder with any abrupt stopping motion.
Tips and Warnings
- Doing arm curls with light weights on an exercise ball will help you gain arm and core strength.
Things You'll Need
- Softball glove
- Softball spike
- Softball
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