You have heard me say that faster and stronger is always better! There is really no doubt that for a player to fulfill their true potential as a softball player that they have to have a certain level of strength, flexibility and quickness.
Now before anyone gets angry, that doesn’t mean that every player needs to be an amazing physical specimen to be great at this game. Athletes can come in all shapes and sizes. But no matter what that shape is, the stronger, faster and more flexible version of themselves will perform better.
For most softball players in the youth softball world, the role of strength and conditioning work is done on their own, with a parent or with a professional trainer. All of these options can work and depending on the players level of motivation, the right plan will probably include a combination of all these resources.
What do we gain from a commitment to strength and conditioning?
- Speed improvement
- Flexibility
- Agility
- Balance
- Endurance
- The ability to Identify areas of weakness that might lead to injury.
- Keep players on the field because they are less likely to be injured.
- Increase an athlete’s confidence.
- Reduce the athlete’s fear of injury.
- Help making healthier choices that will impact their whole life.
Be sure to check with your doctor before you start any specific type of training program to ensure that the athlete is healthy and ready to undertake the work load.
Once you get the green light, go for it. Remember, faster and stronger is always better!
