The term "fast pitch" in men's fast pitch softball is used to differentiate the game from slow pitch softball, in which there are restrictions on the speed and flight pattern of the pitcher's throws. The pitches in slow pitch are delivered underhand at a slow speed with an arc of at least 3 feet, but not to exceed 10 feet, once the ball leaves the pitcher's hand. Unlike slow pitch, fast pitch has no limitations on speed or arc and only restricts the pitcher in terms of his position on the mound.
Step 1
Grip the softball so you have three or four fingers on the seams of the ball, depending on the size of your hands. Leave a small gap between the ball and the palm of your hand.
Step 2
Stand up straight and face the batter with your hands at your sides.
Step 3
Rest the softball on your thigh, with the back of your palm facing the batter, and bring both arms up together, reaching upward with your arms fully extended.
Step 4
Step forward with the leg opposite your throwing arm as your arms reach your chest. Separate your arms and continue to rotate your throwing arm all the way around in a fast, circular motion.
Step 5
Swing your throwing arm downward and back around as fast as you can with the ball facing the batter when your arm reaches the apex of the rotation. Building enough speed in your rotation is crucial to getting the ball to travel quickly and accurately. Snap your wrist upward and allow the ball to roll off your fingertips as your hand reaches your hip. Keep your back tall and straight as you step forward into your pitch to make it rise.
Step 6
Follow through on the pitch to ensure the ball travels straight.
Tips and Warnings
- Leaping into your pitch is legal as long as the foot is not replanted on the plate and used to push off of. Crow hopping -- establishing your pivot foot in two locations -- is illegal . You probably won't be able to throw a fastball right off the bat as this technique takes a little getting used to. Keep practicing and eventually you will develop the necessary muscle memory in your arms and legs.
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