Sliding into a base when playing baseball is an art. Skilled base runners know how to begin lowering their bodies as they approach the base, and they know how to get their front leg out, drop down and glide through the dirt. A good slide is athletic and graceful, but it takes work and technique to master the craft.
The Approach
Step 1
Run as fast as you possibly can on the bases. You should be at maximum velocity before lowering your body for the slide. When you are approximately two body lengths from the base, drop your back end down to the ground, point your outside leg to the bag and slide. The head should be held straight up on the slide, with the arms out to the side to maintain balance. Keeping your back slightly bent during the slide increases your speed to the base.
Step 2
Sliding headfirst into the base is not advised because of health risks. Broken fingers and injured wrists are common injuries when leading with the head. Sliding with the bent-leg approach is your best bet. As the outside leg slides toward the base, the inside leg bends underneath. Tucking one leg under the other provides additional balance and protection.
Step 3
Keeping your body under control when sliding is critical. If you hit the dirt too early, you won't reach the base. If you wait too long, you'll wind up plopping down on the bag and that can result in an injury. Be careful not to slide past the base because you can be tagged out. The hook slide is a good way to avoid the tag. Using the hook, your body begins sliding past the defender's tag. As you avoid the tag with your body, release the tucked in leg and hook it around the base.
Tips and Warnings
- Before sliding on the baseball field, practice using the proper form in the grass. Always keep your head up on the slide to avoid contact with the opposing player or baseball. Pop up from the slide as soon as possible in case you need to run to the next base.
- Sliding head first can lead to finger and wrist injuries. Plopping down on the base instead of sliding also can cause injury. Try to avoid making contact with the opposing player.
Things You'll Need
- Baseball spikes
- Long baseball pants
- Baseball socks
- Loose fitting T-shirt
