"Connector" Devices

I'm of the opinion that if you teach the initial force coupling action of the hands correctly that the proper structure will be developed in the forearms, and that the elbow-to-elbow spacing that you see will be a 'result' of that structure.

FiveFrameSwing said:

I'm of the opinion that if you teach the initial force coupling action of the hands correctly that the proper structure will be developed in the forearms, and that the elbow-to-elbow spacing that you see will be a 'result' of that structure.

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The "teaching correctly" seems to be my challenge - LOL. I'm always on the hunt for a way to teach things better. What I've been doing seems minimally effective.

Think of it this way ..... when you go to rip the handle off the bat, with both the bottom-hand and top-hand, you will establish structure in the forearms, and that structure will dictate the elbow spacing.

Very nice Coach! U must b a good time manger to get all of that in! 9 regions is that locations?

Is there something that hangs in the middle of the elbows on the tubes of the drag buster? What is the purpose for that?

Eric F said:

The "teaching correctly" seems to be my challenge - LOL. I'm always on the hunt for a way to teach things better. What I've been doing seems minimally effective.

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I am like you Eric. I too am always looking for tools to add to my bag. I like what Coach James does. Seems like he uss both the connector and the drag buster for training the right swing. The more tools the better for my DD and the girls the I help!

sbcowboy said:

I am like you Eric. I too am always looking for tools to add to my bag. I like what Coach James does. Seems like he uss both the connector and the drag buster for training the right swing. The more tools the better for my DD and the girls the I help!

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IMO, it's about applying the right "tool" to communicate the lesson - whether it's a gadget, drill, demonstration, or discussion. Kids learn in different ways, and what works for one may be useless with another.

FiveFrameSwing said:

Think of it this way ..... when you go to rip the handle off the bat, with both the bottom-hand and top-hand, you will establish structure in the forearms, and that structure will dictate the elbow spacing.

Click to expand...

When does that "ripping apart force" change to a focus on the ball? Your description makes me think pull forward with the bottom hand and backwards with the top hand. Tensed muscles ie. "ripping apart" don't lend themselves to being flexible/adjustable as the barrel comes around the corner to find the ball. I understand your thought to get the barrel moving but I get stuck downstream.

sbcowboy said:

Very nice Coach! U must b a good time manger to get all of that in! 9 regions is that locations?

Is there something that hangs in the middle of the elbows on the tubes of the drag buster? What is the purpose for that?

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9 regions or zones...
Inside, middle, and outside at hands, belt and knees= 9 locations
We generally take about 5 swings at each zone

The connector called the bat drag buster is literally velcro straps on her biceps with d clips connected to a large rubber band. That's it.
It forces the batter to use muscle and attention to detail in the turn phase. The rubber band is trying to pull her elbows together, but she will fight it to stay spread. After a few dozen swings with this device on, it will become automatic! Thus a correct barrel turn is accomplished!
I use the same concept on the stride foot when a young batter keeps stepping out. I strap a surgical band onto her ankle pulling her towards third. She has to use muscle to step straight. Again, after a few dozen swings....its like magic!

Here's a link to a very helpful post to help understand what is desired between the hands and their proximity to the rear shoulder....

http://www.discussfastpitch.com/softball-hitting-technical/13096-help-swing-15yo-13.html#post152434

Another drill to isolate the arms is to simulate trying to pull the bat apart using the hands.