Generating power in slow pitch softball is vital for any hitter who wants to be a consistent threat for his team. Unlike in baseball or fast pitch softball, the batter has to generate all of his own power. The pitcher merely drops the ball into the hitting zone with little velocity, so the batter's technique and strength are responsible for generating power. The jump step, also known as the shuffle step, allows a hitter to get his legs and core muscles involved in the swing to help generate power.
Step 1
Stand in the rear portion of the batter's box with the bat over your back shoulder. Keep your eye on the ball as the pitcher begins his windup. As the ball reaches its peak, take one step with your front foot of about 12 inches, then take a step with your back foot of about 12 inches and then take one more step with your front foot.
Step 2
Drive your hands through the hitting zone. After you take your third step, your hands will propel the head of the bat and your hips will open. This is where you get your power. The three steps will allow you to get all of your momentum moving toward the ball and allow you to make one continuous motion. You don't want to stop at any point during your swing because that will make it much too hard to hit the ball for distance.
Step 3
Trigger your swing by opening your hips as you drive your hands through the ball. As you take your second step when you are moving toward the ball, your hips will be in a slightly closed position, but the third step will open your hips and allow you to get the maximum power on your swing. This will develop bat head speed, which will allow you to drive the ball for power.
Step 4
Follow through completely when you use the jump step or shuffle step approach. The ball will jump off your bat when you hit it correctly but you won't get maximum distance unless you follow through and finish the swing. Many young hitters want to admire the ball after they make contact. Veteran hitters know they must bring the bat around completely to get maximum power.
References
- Softball Pefromance; Softball Hitting -- Keys to Power Hitting Success; Gerry Mauro
- "Baseball/Softball Program to Increase Bat Speed and Hitting Power"; Steve Zawrotny; 2006
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