Posted by: grc () on Thu Nov 2 18:32:37 2000

>>>I just finished reading the post on hitting.com, what is the correct path your hand should take to the ball and please explain the differnces between circular hand route and linear hand route. Thanks, Krista <<<
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> Hi Krista
>
> With a linear hand-path the top hand is extended in a fairly straight line toward the pitcher. In order to keep the hands moving in a straight line requires the lead elbow to bend so the muscles of the arms can drive the hands in a direct path. The opening of the shoulders is more to allow this direct path than to add power. Some refer to it as "clearing out" the lead side.
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> With the circular hand-path the top hand is not driven forward at initiation. In fact, it is pulled away (toward the catcher) which keeps the lead arm fairly straight and across the body as rotation begins. Therefore, the muscles of the arms are not used to bring the hands around to the contact point. The hands remain in a fairly constant position in relationship to the body. It is the rotation of the body that brings the hands to contact point. This generates a tight circular hand-path. If the pitch is on the outside part of the plate, shoulder rotation slows allowing the lead arm to cast out wider. --- A circular hand-path generates added bat speed - a linear path does not.
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> Jack Mankin
> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>jack....sorry i neglected to mention that you, above anyone else could give krista her answer......respectfully, grc.....