Running with a Purpose

Stretching a double into a triple or a single into a double can be the difference in one or two steps. Fundamental running is so crucial to the game of baseball and can be seen as a highly underrated aspect of the game of baseball. Effective running has won many games over the course of baseball history. The term “tie goes to the runner” is a rule that has saved base hits for many players. In this post we will describe the most effective way to run the bases and how to stretch hits into one base further. 

Form

Using proper form to run the bases is a key aspect to effectively run the bases. Most base hits are the time difference of less than one second. The proper form should be to keep a steady head. A moving head strains your body and ultimately will slow your running time. Your body will only move as fast as your arms move. The quicker you move your arms, the faster your feet will follow. This is typically a common routine for runners to practice running faster. I use to practice by sitting on the ground with my legs out in front of me by pumping my arms as fast as I can for certain time intervals. Sometimes I would also use dumbbell weights to amplify the amount of strength I was gaining during running.

What are other helpful alternatives?

One of the most helpful tools that is used to increase speed is by using a parachute. A parachute will increase the resistance that you are running against. This way will show results a lot faster in comparison to other methods. Typically some people wear ankle weights to increase speed. Ankle weights definitely help, but the issue with ankle weights is that a lot of your speed comes from your arms. Running with dumbbell weights would be a much  more beneficial alternative. Ankle weights also strain the knees of the runner.

Running the bases 

The first thing to determine when you are running to first base is where you hit the ball. If you hit it on the ground in the infield, you know that you want to run as fast as you can in a straight line for first base. As you are approaching first base in that scenario, it is crucial that your foot hits the front part of the bag. This can save you a large amount of time even with such a minor detail. The foot that hits the bag should be whichever foot is next in stride. You should avoid lunging out for the bag. This could cause many number of ankle or knee injuries. Also, it is proven that maintaining the same stride will take less time than striding out at the last second. After the runner hits the bag they should break down immediately and look to their right to see if there was a bad throw made. You should also turn the right side when returning to the base. 

If you have hit the ball to the outfield, it is more beneficial to take what most coaches call the “banana route.” About one-fourth of the way to first base, the runner should start to make a gradual loop in order to be able to angle their body towards second base. The first base coach should be telling you what to do, but this route also helps you to see about where the ball was hit. Your foot should hit first base on the inside corner and propel you towards the next base. 

Conclusion

As you can see, these are just the basics of running primarily through first base, but running is important to the entire game of baseball. A route a fielder takes when running for a fly ball may determine whether or not they catch it. Proper running mechanics and practice are essential for an effective baseball player.