Posted by: The Black Hole Lexicographer (Knight1285@aol.com) on Sun Aug 27 20:14:54 2000

>>>..i know jack believes a stride is not important....maybe if he could explain his reasoning in a scientific context we could all learn....respectfully grc <<<
> >
> > Hi grc
> >
> > I have often said that a stride can be important to batters for their timing sequence. But I have not heard a supported argument that the linear motion, weight shift, is a factor in bat speed development. If you or anyone would like to present material to the contrary, I would be happy to discuss it. -- In your argument, facts will carry more weight than feelings.
> >
> > Jack Mankin i know you may be right, jack...i just wish i could see a scientific argument, pros & cons...i know that it is a natural movement to take a stride...just as a boxer steps forward or someone throwing a ball steps forward...i know these are completely different cases....i think it's amazing how much literature exists on the biomechanics of tennis, boxing & many other sports, and yet very little on the biomechanics of hitting.....respectfully, grc....

Hello Jack and GRC,
Weight shift is important when speaking of setting up the proper balance to rotate around a stationary axis. Nevertheless, I still think the top hand is of primary importance when swinging the bat. The rotation of the body, as I see it, brings the hands around. The top hand throws the bat head in an arc, and by using torque from the body and the top hand, I do generate a good circular path.

Keep in mind that "explosion" is only important as a mental cue; the important facet of hitting which must be assessed is whether a circular arc swing is used, and not whether a deviant mode thinking is used to attain that swing.

Sincerely,
The Black Hole Lexicographer
Knight1285@aol.com