Posted by: Dave P (pzone@telus.net) on Wed Nov 28 03:21:22 2007

> Hi Gentlemen
>
> I have often pointed out in my description of the “Inward Turn” (of the lead-shoulder) produces 30+ degrees of separation between the hips and shoulders in the launch position. This stretches the torso muscles sufficiently for powerful contraction. However, I would also point out that the hips remain fairly straightaway as the lead-shoulder rotates inward. And, as the baseball swing is initiated, the hips normally open only 4 or 5 degrees before the shoulders start their rotation. Therefore it is not the rotation of the hips that produces most of the separation.
>
> My Problem with the “X Factor”, as related to the baseball swing, is two fold.
> (1) Most coaches contend that it is the rotation of the hips while resisting shoulder rotation that produces the “stretch” – or separation. When actually, hip rotation before the shoulder rotate accounts for only a very small part of it.
>
> (2) To many coaches, the greater the “X Factor”, or separation, the more the torso muscles are stretched and therefore the greater the “rubber band” effect – which they claim produces a quicker and a more powerful rotation. Rotation of what, I am not sure. Many of them do not believe shoulder rotation is even a factor in transferring rotational energy to the bat. – Video analysis does not support the “Max Separation” concept (in the baseball swing).

HI Jack

X factor stretch has been proven to exist in the golf swing and the baseball swing (refer to Skill Technologies) and is proven to be present in the BEST SWINGS. Video analysis is not the way to test the movement of the body. Currently it is way behind products such as what Skill Technologies and others have out there where exact measurements and not video estimates are best used for analysis. Take a trip down to Phoenix and see it for yourself.

I will agree that too much stretch will decrease the chances of maximizing power and hitting the ball but the stretch is there and is required to have a great swing.
>
> Dave P