Effects of Various Training Techniques on Bat Velocity of High School Baseball Players

Ethan R. Crocker; Madeline L. Dow; Gina Leigh Kraft

doi:10.31686/ijier.vol9.iss5.3120

Authors

Ethan R. Crocker Minuteman High School
Madeline L. Dow Castleberry High School
Gina Leigh Kraft Arkansas Tech University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31686/ijier.vol9.iss5.3120

Keywords:

bat speed, standard bat, theraband, weighted bat, training implements

Abstract

Faster bat speed allows a baseball or softball player more time to decide how to hit the ball and provides more transfer of momentum to the ball (Nathan, 2003; Syzmanski, DeRenne, Spaniol, 2009). Purpose: This paper examines the effectiveness of three training strategies for improving bat speed among high school baseball players. Methods: Nine high school students were recruited and separated into 3 groups using different training implements. A standard bat (29 oz.), a weighted bat (45 oz.), and Therabands attached to a standard bat were used over a 3-week training program. Data were analyzed using a Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA. Results: The standard bat group experienced no change in bat speed (± 0.89), while the weighted bat group increased by 1.9 ± 0.46 mph and the Theraband group improved by 3.1 ± 0.38 mph. The only significant difference was in the change in bat speed between the Theraband group and the standard bat group (p = .022). All other data were non-significant. Conclusions: Attaching Therabands to a standard bat may be an effective training tool to improve bat speed.

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Author Biographies

Ethan R. Crocker, Minuteman High School

Baseball Coach
Madeline L. Dow, Castleberry High School

Biology Teacher, Freshmen Volleyball Coach, and Assistant Softball Coach
Gina Leigh Kraft, Arkansas Tech University

Associate Professor, Dept. of Health and Physical Education

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