The Effects of A Medicine Ball Training Program on Bat Velocity of Prepubescent Softball Players

Rotational movements are considered an important component of hitting mechanics within the game of softball. Strength and conditioning coaches seek to improve the performance of softball players’ bat velocity through various weighted implement training modes focusing on rotational movements. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine if an 8-week rotational medicine ball training protocol would increase bat velocity in a game like situation for prepubescent softball players. It was hypothesized that an 8-week rotational medicine ball training program would result in the greatest increase in bat velocity among prepubescent softball players. METHODS: Twenty-seven female prepubescent softball players (mean age = 10.2 + 1.2) participated in this study. Participants were randomly assigned to a medicine ball training (MB = 13) or control (CON = 14) group. Pre- and Post-testing consisted of warming up with 10 dry swings using the bat they normally use during competition followed by 10 hits off a pitching machine. Pitch speed was 30-40mph depending on age. During the 8 weeks of training, the MB group completed a series of medicine ball throws that were aimed at developing rotational velocity. Exercises included side medicine ball throw for distance, side medicine ball throw for speed, partner russian twists, woodchoppers and standing side band rotations which were all done on both dominant and non-dominant sides. 8-10 year old participants used a 4-kg medicine ball while 11-13 year olds used a 6-kg medicine ball. 1 set of 12 repetitions was completed 2x/wk. RESULTS: A Repeated Measures ANOVA with a Randomized Cross-Over Design revealed no significant difference between conditions from pre- to post-testing (F=1.9, p=.18) and no significant difference over time in either group (F= .33, p= .57). Pre-test average velocity for CON = 36.1mph (+ 6.6) and MB = 36.8mph (+ 5.4). Post-test average velocity for CON =38.2mph (+ 8.6) and MB = 37.7mph (+ 4.4). CONCLUSION: Medicine ball training offers no additional benefits compared to normal in-season activities in prepubescent softball players. Mean velocity from pre- to post-testing did increase in both conditions, but not significantly. However, a more rigorous training program may prove to be more beneficial.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science in Education

Level thesis:degree_level

masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Physical Education-Exercise Physiology/Adult Fitness

Grantor dc:publisher

University of Akron

Year dc:date

2013

Author dc:creator

• Kobak, Mallory S.

Contributors dc:contributor

• Otterstetter, Ronald

• Health Sciences
• Biomechanics
• Bat Velocity
• Medicine Ball
• Rotational Training
• Softball

Statement dc:rights

• unrestricted
• This thesis or dissertation is protected by copyright: all rights reserved. It may not be copied or redistributed beyond the terms of applicable copyright laws.

Language dc:language

English

Repository record dc:identifier

http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1363783533

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:etd.ohiolink.edu:akron1363783533