Contributing factors for increased bat swing velocity

J Strength Cond Res. 2009 Jul;23(4):1338-52. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e318194e09c.

Abstract

Bat swing velocity is an important characteristic of successful hitters in baseball and softball. The purpose of this literature review is threefold. First, before describing what components and training methods have been investigated to improve bat swing velocity, it is necessary to discuss the importance of bat swing velocity and batted-ball velocity. The second purpose is to discuss bat weight during on-deck circle warm-up, bat weight during resistance training, resistance training with an overload of force, performance of additional supplemental resistance exercises, the relationship between strength, power, lean body mass, and angular velocity and bat swing velocity, and the relationship between improvements in strength, power, lean body mass, and angular velocity and improvements in bat swing velocity. The third purpose of this review is to recommend some practical applications based on research results.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acceleration
  • Arm / physiology*
  • Baseball / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Muscle Strength / physiology*
  • Resistance Training / methods*
  • Sports Equipment