Whether legging out a double or triple or trying to swipe an extra base, softball players need to run as fast as they can or risk being thrown out. Of course, all that speed can make stopping difficult. To avoid overrunning bases, players often slide along the ground to not only slow their momentum but also to disrupt tag attempts. Sliding requires exceptional form, because improper technique can lead to injury.
Feet First
In softball, most coaches recommend a strong feet-first slide. Run directly at the base and slide with one leg pointed straight and the other tucked beneath your knee, forming a figure 4. Raise your hands in the air to prevent them from dragging along the ground and slowing the slide. Momentum will carry you into the base, where you can either plant your foot against the bag and pop up or simply come to a stop resting on the bag.
Head First
An alternative to the standard slide, the head-first slide involves lunging forward and diving to reach the base with your hands. In this technique, you'll slide on your chest and stomach as opposed to your tucked leg and bottom. While it might result in a quicker route to the base, head-first slides do present a greater risk of injury, as you can easily jam your fingers and wrists. You're also placing your head in the middle of the action, leaving it open to errant throws and tags.
Hook Slide
If you feel the throw could beat you to the bag, you might want to opt for a hook slide to avoid any attempted tag. This sliding technique involves running toward the outside of the base rather than directly at it. You should also initiate the slide a stride later, wanting momentum to carry you past the base. You'll use the same technique as the standard feet-first slide, forming the figure 4 with your legs, except this time you'll hook around and reach out to grab the base with your hands.
Considerations
Speed and timing are everything in sliding. Without enough initial speed, your slide will be ineffective and almost unnecessary. You also should try to initiate your slide about four or five feet from the base. You'll develop a feel for the correct distance with practice. While starting your slide too soon will no doubt result in an out, starting too late can cause you to hit the base with too much force, potentially resulting in injury. And always remember to keep an eye on the fielders and the direction of the throw to determine which sliding technique to use.
Member Comments