Hitting a softball is a challenging, but fundamental, skill. Although softball batting averages tend to be higher than those in baseball, it is still likely that a softball player will fail to reach base more often than she gets a hit. The softball bat is often thinner and lighter than a baseball bat, but the same form is used with both types. Once you refine your mechanics and develop muscle memory, you have an increased chance of getting a hit.
Step 1
Hold the bat around the neck with both hands. Your lead hand should be positioned closer to the narrow end of the bat, with the back hand placed directly above it. Hold the bat above and behind your shoulder, though the exact location is a matter of preference.
Step 2
Space your feet about shoulder-width apart or slightly wider, parallel to home plate. Bend the knees and lean forward slightly toward the plate.
Step 3
Start your swinging motion by lifting your lead foot off the ground and kicking your knee toward the bat. This will shift your weight onto your back foot and bring the bat and your wrists farther into the backswing.
Step 4
Step forward toward the pitcher with your lead foot and begin to swing the bat. The lead motion starting your swing should be generated by a rotation of the hips, torso and shoulders, which helps rotate the bat as your arms extend the bat toward the plate. As you swing, your weight will gradually shift from the back foot forward.
Step 5
Twist your wrists as the bat nears the plate to maximize the velocity of the barrel. You want the bat to travel its fastest when it contacts the ball. At this point, your front foot should be planted on the ground and your weight will have shifted onto it.
Step 6
Follow through on your swing by continuing to rotate the hips and torso while swinging the bat up and around your lead shoulder.
Things You'll Need
- Softball bat
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