Posted by: Torque (roscoethewestie@comcast.net) on Mon Jan 4 05:31:21 2010

> > I was curious if weight lifting (heavy) during the baseball season should be done and if it affects you negativley, maybe slowing you down, make you throw differently and slower, and making you swing differently and slowing the swing down etc.... or if it should only be done in the offseason. If someone could please let me (and maybe some workout tips) know asap would appreciate it.
> > thanks.

You can workout during the season. The key to any workout program is to not overdo it and particularly to not develop any overuse injuries. A good workout program will have flexibility training in it as well. You can probably find some stuff on youtube.

Personally, I would focus on explosive movements and not worry much with how much weight you lift. Would use lighter weights and work for an athletic build rather than a body builder type build. You can also turn your weight lifting workout into a cardio workout by never stopping. Just immediately go to the next exercise to keep your heart rate up. Marathon workout sessions are also too much. See if you can develop a routine that lasts 30 to 40 minutes with non-stop exercising.

One of my favorite things to do is hit a commercial tire with a sledge hammer. U can probably find an equipment company or someone to give you a worn out tire. Then go buy a big sledge hammer for $20 at Home Depot. Hit that tire 80 to 100 times a day using two hands. Also swing the sledgehammer hard with one hand some. Bar your lead arm when you hit the tire.

If you have access to an exercise bike turn the resistance up really high where it is hard to pedal. Ride for 3 to 5 minutes several times during the workout.

This web site has great hitting information. Take the time to look at Jack's youtube videos and look at a little bit at a time to understand how to hit the ball hard. Send him a video clip and let him analyze it. All the working out in the world won't compensate for bad mechanics.