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

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

Author Biographies
  1. Ethan R. Crocker, Minuteman High School

    Baseball Coach

  2. Madeline L. Dow, Castleberry High School

    Biology Teacher, Freshmen Volleyball Coach, and Assistant Softball Coach

  3. Gina Leigh Kraft, Arkansas Tech University

    Associate Professor, Dept. of Health and Physical Education

References

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Published
2021-05-01
Issue
Vol. 9 No. 5 (2021): International Journal for Innovation Education and Research
Section
Journal Articles
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Copyright (c) 2021 Ethan R. Crocker, Madeline L. Dow, Gina Leigh Kraft

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How to Cite

Crocker, E. R., Dow, M. L., & Kraft, G. L. (2021). Effects of Various Training Techniques on Bat Velocity of High School Baseball Players. International Journal for Innovation Education and Research, 9(5), 788-797. https://doi.org/10.31686/ijier.vol9.iss5.3120