Pitchers who can throw consistently hard tend to dominate in fast-pitch softball. Pitchers can throw at speeds up to 70 mph from a distance of 43 feet, which is the equivalent of a baseball pitcher who throws 95-plus mph. Pitchers can increase their velocity by building arm strength and using proper techniques.
Throwing Drills
Pitchers have to build arm strength to add velocity and maintain the ability to pitch effectively from the start of the season to the finish. The best way to build arm strength and help the delicate muscles that form the rotator cuff stay healthy is to throw regularly. Prior to the start of every practice, pitchers should throw the ball for at least 15 minutes. This is not pitching practice: This is simply overhand throwing. Start at a distance of 50 to 60 feet and work your way to 100 feet or more. Playing long toss will help the shoulder get stronger for the rigors of pitching.
Drive Off the Rubber
Throwing harder from the pitching mound requires the pitcher to use her lower body throughout the process. This is one of the most important aspects in developing velocity. Think of the pitching rubber as being similar to the starting blocks for a sprinter in track and field. You must push yourself off the pitching rubber in the same explosive manner that the sprinter leaves the starting blocks, with speed and power. You should feel as if you are springing off the rubber as you deliver the ball toward home plate.
Reaching Back
Building proper velocity when pitching means that you must have the proper arm swing. The farther back you can reach during your backswing, the more velocity your pitch will have. As you reach back with the softball, try to point your arm directly toward the centerfield fence before you bring it forward. The farther your arm can get in the backswing, the more whip action your arm will have to deliver a faster pitch.
Weighted Ball
You can build a stronger arm and get more velocity by practicing with a weighted softball. It is important not to put too much of a strain on your arm because the rotator cuff muscles are small and can be injured easily. However, when you are practicing your delivery and throwing off the pitching rubber, throw the final 10 to 15 pitches with a heavy ball. The standard game-condition softball weighs 6 1/4 oz. while weighted softball are 8 to 11 oz. This will help you develop more explosive speed in your delivery.
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