Understanding the Kinematic Sequence

kinematic sequence

Not all throwing and hitting motions are created equal. Some guys rely more on strength, some guys elasticity (facial tissue) and some are simply genetic “outliers” (there’s that fascia again). But close analysis, in not only numerous studies but also from my own experience at the facility, reveals that there is one common denominator why hard throwers create effortless velocity and command, as well as power hitters creating high exit velos behind the plate.

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Addressing and Treating Trunk Tilt at Foot Strike – Part 1

Many times, when analyzing video of our young pitchers, I’ll come across an excessive lateral trunk tilt at foot strike. It’s quite common in younger throwers and is characterized by an excessive lean (tilt) contralaterally towards your left side at ball release (if you’re a right-handed pitcher and vice versa). The head becomes tilted, facing away from the driveline and gives the appearance that the athlete is getting ready to launch the ball over a three-story building.
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Interview with Kinnelon’s RHP Paul Cannarella (coming off Tommy John Surgery)

FullSizeRenderWe are here with Kinnelon’s Paul Cannarella.  Paul came to us in the fall of his senior year and has been training with us for almost a year.  He graduated from Kinnelon High School this year and unfortunately during this spring season he hurt his elbow.  He had Tommy John surgery and he is now on his path to recovery.  I thought it could be a great interview and learning experience to hear Paul tell his story first hand.

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Losing Your Legs and Your Velocity Early in the Game

Losing Legs and Velo

It’s that time of year when I go out and watch all my guys (with a great sense of pride I might add) play ball and in doing so, get a chance to watch many other young pitchers on the mound as well. A common thread that I see with many of them is the similarities in the breakdown that happens in the later innings.

More often than not, I believe this is fatigue of the lower half. The pre-mature change in lower extremity kinematics and timing can generally be attributed to a lack of strength (or a loss of strength if they have stopped training in-season) bringing on many command problems as well as velocity issues. Today, we’ll touch on three topics. Continue reading “Losing Your Legs and Your Velocity Early in the Game”