Softball: Pitching Tips & Techniques

These softball pitching drills focus on improving accuracy, speed, and control, helping pitchers develop confidence on the mound. Whether practicing solo or with a coach, incorporating these exercises into a routine will build a strong foundation for success.

softball pitching
softball pitching

Drill 1: Wrist Snap Drill

A powerful pitch starts with proper wrist action. This drill helps pitchers develop a strong wrist snap, which is essential for speed and spin.

How to Perform:

  • Stand 10–15 feet from a target or partner.
  • Hold the ball with the proper grip and extend the arm forward.
  • Snap the wrist downward, releasing the ball with spin.
  • Focus on a strong follow-through, keeping the wrist loose.

Reps: 20–30 snaps per hand before moving to full pitches.

Drill 2: One-Knee Pitching Drill

This drill isolates the upper body and emphasizes proper arm motion, helping pitchers develop muscle memory.

How to Perform:

  • Kneel on the throwing-side knee with the glove-side knee up.
  • Keep the upper body upright and focus on proper arm rotation.
  • Start with slow arm circles and progress to full pitching motion.
  • Snap the wrist and follow through toward the target.

Reps: 15–20 pitches to build consistency.

softball pitching

Drill 3: Walk-Through Pitching Drill

Designed to improve momentum and timing, this drill helps pitchers generate power from the lower body.

How to Perform:

  • Start five steps behind the pitching rubber.
  • Walk forward while gradually increasing speed.
  • As the last step is taken, drive off the back leg and pitch with full force.
  • Focus on balance and a strong finish.

Reps: 10–15 walk-through pitches to reinforce proper motion.

Drill 4: Target Accuracy Drill

Accuracy is just as important as speed. This drill sharpens a pitcher’s ability to hit specific spots in the strike zone.

How to Perform:

  • Set up a strike zone target with different zones marked.
  • Pitch to specific locations, focusing on hitting inside, outside, high, and low spots.
  • Increase difficulty by alternating pitch locations rapidly.
  • Track accuracy to measure improvement over time.

Reps: 10 pitches per target zone.

softball pitching

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