Equal arm development

[Wookie]

My 11 YO DD has been pitching for a little over 1 year now and she has developed pretty good speed. Her mechanics still need help but we're working on that. My concern is that her right arm (throwing) seems to be more muscular and developed as compared to the left. Is this a concern? If so, what should she do to "balance" herself? She also plays other positions well and can hit pretty good too, so I don't want her to focus just on pitching. I'm worried that this uneven arm development may hinder her progress in other areas.

 

[Amy in AZ.]

Yes, that is a legitimate concern called muscle imbalance. Many people strengthen that side using surgical band exercises. It looks like you are in an area, where you could get a personal trainer to take a look at her and make some suggestions.

I personally like the Finch Windmill, to strengthen both sides.

 

[SoftSocDad]

Don't be overly concerned - she's only 11 and will be starting puberty soon.

 

[Chris O'Leary]

Yes, that is a legitimate concern called muscle imbalance.

Not exactly.

Muscle imbalance is when two opposing muscles (Bicep and Tricep) on the same arm are of different strengths. In baseball pitchers, too much front side work can make the engine muscles bigger than the braking muscles and strain the braking muscles (Teres Minor).

One arm being larger than the other happens a lot in tennis. It can look weird but isn't dangerous. Here's Rafael Nadal, who's a lefty.

This is generally more obvious in men due to their greater muscle mass.

 

[Amy in AZ.]

Here is a clip about muscle imbalance - Jennie Finch Windmill   The ultimate pitching, throwing, and shoulder exercise machine   Shoulder Rehabilitation, Fastpitch Softball, Baseball, shoulder strenth

You are right Wookie, to be concerned. You can imagine the strain on her back, when one side is stronger than the other. Please start with your own physician and rely on him or her.