Choosing the right baseball bat is the first step to hitting performance. Baseball bats are available in a wide range of sizes, weights and lengths to accommodate the various ability levels and hitting styles. Baseball bat manufacturers weigh the bats in ounces and measure the length in inches to make it easy to match the overall size to your personal preference. Choosing the proper size of a baseball bat can be determined by numerous factors such as age, height, weight, strength and hitting style.
Step 1
Choose a size range according to your age. For example, 5- to 7-year-olds should choose bats measuring 24- to 26-inches while 10- and 11-year-olds should start with a 30- to 32-inch bat. Overall, younger players should focus on short, lightweight bats for increased control.
Step 2
Choose the size of the bat according to your height. A general rule of thumb is taller batters can use longer bats. For example, a player between 5 feet and 5 feet, 6 inches should use a 32-inch bat while a player taller than 6 feet can use a 34-inch bat.
Step 3
Adjust the bat size according to your bodyweight. For example, players weighing less than 100 lbs. should start with a bat measuring 26- to 32-inches and players weighing more than 160 lbs. should choose a bat between 31- and 34-inches.
Step 4
Hold the bat on the handle next to the knob with one hand and raise your arm until the bat is perpendicular with the ground. Keep the bat as steady as possible for at least 15 seconds. Decrease the size and weight of the bat if you can't hold the bat for 15 seconds.
Step 5
Match the bat size to your hitting style. For example, if you're a power hitter, choose a heavier bat and choose a lightweight bat if you want a quicker swing. Practice swinging the baseball bat in a batting cage.
Tips and Warnings
- Find the bat size that feels most comfortable.
- Review any league rules regarding bat size, length and weight before using the bat for competition.
Things You'll Need
- Batting cage
- League rules
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