BEGINNING HITTING STAGES


BASIC BEGINNING STAGES
There are some basic stages to use as a guideline that will help get an overview of the student’s swing. Understand that these are beginning stages and avoid over-analyzing any one of these stages. Also, do not spend too much time searching for things that are wrong with the student’s swing. These stages should be used as a road map or stepping stones toward a sound swing. Each will change at different levels throughout our lessons.

Once we feel that we have a sound understanding, or control, of the fundamental stages, we can move toward the more advanced drills and skill sets required to have success at the higher levels of fastpitch softball. Do not expect a great deal of drills or fine point discussions in this part of the site. Beginning stages are just that: beginning. We’re building a swing by gathering information that will help identify issues.




STARTING OUT
When first working with a student, regardless of age or ability, there are areas to be looked at and adjusted. Sometimes the work in these areas can take many months, and sometime it takes just a few lessons. These areas are broken down and offer information regarding each of the steps that would be considered beginning stages.



CONSISTENCY WITH THE STAGES
The beginning stages of the swing are the foundation for success. Reinforcement of these should be included in every workout. Every lesson should include drills or changes that address each of these stages. One cannot stress enough that before students can be taught more advanced skills in hitting, they will need to feel comfortable and have consistently gone through the different stages of a swing.



THE “LOOK” OF STAGES
Since each student is different, the stages - although taught the same way - may not look the same as they’re executed. When teaching these stages, always look for successful results rather than identical results. If you choose to use some of the drills outlined here, please do not get discouraged if your daughter or student does have the same stances as those in the pictures. You will find examples in this website of different ages and skill levels. Success is the important criterion: always work toward having success in the games.