Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Thu Jan 13 17:27:01 2005

>>> I would say saying it's a change of direction is more dynamic then explaining it as just mechanics. It might not be any different then the mechanics you explained, but it happens in a more dynamic sense. For instance the movements overlap each other in a smooth sequence.

It's just something I noticed many years ago, the change of direction. <<<

Hi Shawn

I agree with you that there are dynamics in the swing that are almost impossible to describe. It is like trying to explain rhythm with the written word. You explained your position well and now I will try to answer your previous question.

You asked, “Why can't we have both?, whip affect and CHP.” – I have no problem if we wish to refer to the acceleration of the bat-head about a point that occurs from the CHP as a whipping action or effect. My problem is with the publication of theories that would lead batters to believe that if they quickly accelerate the hands in a linear path, there is a “crack of the whip” effect when their hands come to a stop.

There are instructional videos that contain a drill where the batter is taught to “pop a towel” by thrusting forward and stopping the top-hand. This, they tell the viewer, will teach them the proper way to use the hands in the swing. This same theory is expressed in Adair’s book and is now taught by many batting coaches.

It is very important that coaches and players understand that there is no “Crack of the Whip Effect” occurring with a straight extension of the hands. This whip effect they are referring to, is only induced from an angular displacement of the hands (CHP) and torque applied. – Shawn, this is why I have many questions when the topic of a whip effect is raised.

Note: Video clips showing there is no “Crack of the Whip Effect” occurring with a straight extension of the hands can be seen at - http://webpages.charter.net/nickkio/HandPath/ -- (CHP & SHP.)

Jack Mankin