Date of Award
5-2014
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Kinesiology
First Advisor
Cynthia Schroeder
Second Advisor
Kathryn Tessmer
Abstract
Throwing velocity is a critical factor in baseball and softball performance, yet its relationship with sport-specific performance tests remains unclear. This study examines correlations between common performance tests and throwing velocity in right-handed collegiate baseball and softball players. A total of 33 athletes (22 baseball, 11 softball) participated in a series of tests assessing anthropometric measurements, grip strength, agility, lower body power, and rotational power.
Results indicate that performance tests incorporating frontal and transverse plane movements, such as rotational broad jumps and medicine ball rotational scoop tosses, were the strongest predictors of throwing velocity. Notably, rotational broad jumps had the highest correlation for softball players, while medicine ball scoop tosses were more predictive for baseball players. The findings suggest that lower body power and rotational strength play significant roles in throwing velocity, challenging the traditional emphasis on upper body strength alone.
This research provides valuable insights for coaches and trainers in designing sport-specific training programs that enhance throwing performance. Future studies should explore additional variables, including muscle activation patterns and biomechanics, to further refine predictive models of throwing velocity. Understanding these correlations can lead to improved training methodologies and athlete development in collegiate baseball and softball.
Recommended Citation
Reese, Michael A., "Correlation Between Throwing Velocity and Baseball- and Softball-Specific Performance Tests in Collegiate Baseball and Softball Players" (2014). Theses. 1273.
https://digitalcommons.lindenwood.edu/theses/1273
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
