Many pitchers will ask themselves this question after they have spent countless hours trying to improve on their pitching velocity. Unfortunately, hard work is simply not enough to pitch faster. But instead, you must work hard in the proper direction. Many pitchers utilize techniques that are ineffective for increase velocity, but have taught from an early age to use them. If you think long tossing everyday is going to increase your velo, then you are headed in the wrong direction.

I’m going to tell you now, increasing your pitching velocity isn’t easy. There are many factors that go into increasing velocity. No single factor alone is going to make a significant difference. So then what does it take?

It all starts with your pitching mechanics. If there is a factor that has the greatest influence, then it would the efficiency of your mechanics. The fact is that many pitchers simply have ineffective mechanics because they do not understand how to utilize their body as a single unit. It takes years of hard work and persistence to master your mechanics, but many pitchers neglect them. If you’re structuring your pitching training around your workout schedule, then you need to refocus.

Your number one priority should be to improve your mechanics.

Second, you must develop a proper strength training regime. Yes, I did say you should prioritize mechanics over strength training, but I didn’t say you should avoid it altogether. It is absolutely essential to pitching faster! A proper strength training regime will help pitchers become more athletic, and will even prevent potential arm injury. The key is to focus on exercises that are beneficial for the movements involved in pitching. Since much of your power is derived from the legs, you must effectively train them. You should always be focused on becoming more explosive, as opposed to being a bodybuilder.

Thirdly, you must readjust your conditioning habits. Stop running long distance because it is killing your velocity. Pitching is anaerobic, not aerobic. Next time your coach tells you to go run poles, kindly ask him if you can run sprints instead. Pitchers should focus on anaerobic conditioning techniques such as sprints, plyometrics, and agility’s. These exercises increase the strength of fast twitch muscle fibers, which in return increases your explosiveness. To key to pitching faster, is to become more explosive. Explosive will be achieved through effective mechanics, strength training, and conditioning. Don’t give up, and stop using techniques that may be stalling your velocity goals!