Posted by: rql () on Tue Dec 2 13:06:16 2003

We have talked about mechanics for years here,we have also hit on the importance of strength training and many workouts [in season/off season]. Last season at this time I worked hard with weights,Strongest I have been in 5 years,and worked on my tee for 1000s of swings and never hit a ball over the 310 field I hit at.This year I used a less rigorous w/o[weight]and focused on stretching my hips,legs,groin area,and back much harder.My 1st session hitting I bounced 5 balls off the wall in a row and hit 1 over,my 2nd session I hit 2 out.With all the twisting, rotating,separating we are talking about the more we should consider in conditioning the body to be able to do that.I did this with a heavier bat than I have used before[34/31]given to me to tryout.I do not think it was the bat however because when I 1st got it I could not drive the ball as hard as with the 33/29 that I had.I could actually feel more speed in my body turn,so when your working with your kids don't overlook the flexibility aspect.