Posted by: Dave (cdpaetkau@telus.net) on Wed Jan 28 10:48:14 2004

Hi Tom and all

I have been to Skill Technologies lab in Phoenix. Very interesting. If you get a chance download the file on the web site called 3D skill check and play with the baseball and softball swings. They are by no means "perfect" swings that are demonstated but it gives you a better idea of how to apply the x-factor stretch to hitting a pitched ball (NOT a softball or baseball swing as this implies there is a big difference).

The x-factor stretch is the ability to leave the hands back (still) while the bottom half starts the swing and rotates. THT then occurs and the hands are still not moving forward toward the pitch. This keeps the shoulders from rotating too early because as soon as the hands come forward the shoulders have to turn.

Dave