Posted by: Joe Hernandez (coach2hit@yahoo.com) on Wed Jun 28 17:13:09 2006

> > I have your video and I like the theory being taught. I am still trying to learn how best to teach it to a 7 & 9 year old in terms they can understand. What would the best routine be with the heavy bag. Would it be 50 swings/day or every other day or sets of 10? Also, is there any merit in videoing their swing and letting them see it? Right now, I think we are keying on pulling with the top hand toward the catcher and they are starting to do that. I am trying to teach a little at a time and let them incorporate it into their swing so that they no longer have to think about it.
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> I have a 7 year old son and we practice rotation hitting as well. We do the heavy bag drill, but only enough reps. until I notice that the arms are starting to drop or he loses technique. Doing more reps. at that point will actually train bat habits. How many reps. is best will be determined on you kids size and strength.
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> As for practicing pulling the top hand (THT) at this age, I think it is a difficult concept for them to grasp and may cause them to train a loop in their swing...muscle coordination isn't quite there for the 7 year old, but maybe for the 9 year old. If all they learn is the mechanics of (CHP) you are ahead of the game. If you want to incorporate a little pre-launch torque with a slight inward shoulder turn, that could be incorporated too. Just a few thoughts from someone with a boy the same age.


Hi Guys,

I personally would not do "heavy" bag training with a 7 year old. You need to be very careful with "growth plates" and the added stress that this drill can have on his joints.

Let him just swing a bat, play whiffle ball, have fun. There will be plenty of time to get into more serious workouts with your "gifted" son. Growth plates are growth plates...regardless of genetics, a seven year old needs to grow and be a kid. Also, his body is not yet physiologically mature to integrate and benefit from a program of "power".

This can put too much strain on young muscles, tendons and growth plates, especially when proper technique is sacrificed in favor of trying to hit a bag.

The focus should be on using a regular bat for his age instead of hitting a bag, with a special emphasis on proper technique and controlled movements as well as safety. At the age 7, a kid should be focusing on body awareness and body control, balance, running, jumping and throwing. Your focus should be on correct technique, smooth and controlled motions, less on using "resistance" and more on increasing repetitions. A wood bat can be more than enough for his age. Keep it fun. Vary the routine often. A 7 year old is more likely to stick with baseball and develop the necessary strength in time, if he does not get bored by it.

As far as the 9 year old, I would still keep away from the bag. Give him the benefit of the doubt. However, he can benefit from some form of strength building exercises. Keep it simple, use very light weights with emphasis on reps (should be able to do 10 to 12 reps without sacrificing form) or just body weight, and no more than 2 to 3 times a week.

I would consult a pediatrician if you have any doubts.


I am sure Jack Mankin would agree with this.

Good luck!

Joe Hernandez