Reader Question: How Much Should a 10u Athlete Pitch?

By Carly | March 3, 2014

Hey Carly! I’ve got twins at the 10u level that both pitch, but in games both of them tend to not reach their optimum speeds/groove until the second inning, and this is after I have given them a complete warm up. As a result I have had them pitch a tad more than most (30 pitches) after warm-up and before the first pitch. We usually throw 100+ pitches in practice sessions so I feel like I have built or I am building their stamina.

We typically practice a couple times a week mixed in with a lesson, so they pitch 3 times a week(If everything falls into place). Does sound right to you? Any tips on how to keep them better prepared without pitching so much before games?

—CC

Read More

Softball Preseason Fitness Test

By Joe Bonyai | February 28, 2014

Do you test your athletes’ fitness or conditioning throughout the season? What physical capacities are you testing? In this video, I demonstrate and instruct you through a sample softball preseason fitness test or combine. This test is space efficient and can be administered to small or large groups by softball coaches and even parents.

Read More

How to Reduce Softball Pitching Elbow Pain

By Joe Bonyai | February 20, 2014

Arm, wrist and elbow pain is very common in throwing athletes, especially softball pitchers. In this week’s video I introduce a piece of equipment that I keep in my gym and that I’ve used personally to dramatically reduce throwing related arm pain.

Read More

Post Physical Therapy Upper Body Strength Training

By Joe Bonyai | February 13, 2014

Proceeding Jillian’s post, I felt it was a good time to talk about advanced strength training following an injury or physical therapy. In this week’s videos I explain and demonstrate upper body strength training principles and exercises for softball athletes who may, or may not, be returning from an injury.

Read More

Is CrossFit Safe for Softball Players?

By Joe Bonyai | February 5, 2014

As CrossFit continues to gain popularity, more high school athletes will become interested in it and exposed to its style of workouts. In this video, I try to lay out the basic tenants of CrossFit methods to let you determine whether or not it’s appropriate for your team or athlete.

Read More

The Most Important Habit for Softball Success

By Joe Bonyai | January 8, 2014

To start 2014, I’m giving you advice that I sincerely wish I had received and utilized when I was an athlete. As coach and business professional, the value of this habit pays me back on a daily basis. It’s truly priceless and I really hope coaches, parents, an athletes give it a try.

Read More

The State of Strength Training for Softball 2013

By Joe Bonyai | December 18, 2013

For my last contribution of 2013, I’ve collected my best posts from this past year. If you are a new fan of Fastpitch Power, this list will help you get “up to speed” on the most important topics related to softball strength and conditioning.

Read More