"Best of Max Speaks Out on the internet "....Over the past two years Max has expressed his views on hitting and pitching training and mechanics. Many of these address fundamental issues that are key to maximizing your baseball abilities. Max Ratofor, BS, MS, Physiokinetist, Web Pilot and SETPRO consultant gives his "straight from the hip" views and opinions on today's training issues. You can send your questions and comments to maxrfd@ntplx.net |
| The following is Max's response to a statement about weighted
baseball training.
Dear Weave, You will never get a consensus on this question. How do you rationalize one parent/player/coach saying they have good results and another saying it’s bad? There are usually two problems (my opinion) with responses to these types of questions. If it’s someone who has tried this type of training, they usually use hit or miss methods to arrive at their conclusions. Training methodology is crucial to the success/failure of any program. The other problem are those responses that pass on second and third hand information as if they were the expert Many times this type response fits their personal perception (bias) of right/wrong.. They are the most dangerous and damaging to the advancement and preparation of young athletes. I have researched the over load question/form of training extensively. In general over load training with weighted balls is a very effective training tool (especially when combined with under load training). I have used it with great success with players of all ages. Success with this form of training is determined by when and how to use it. Most players who try this form of training have essentially no guidance or instruction. Variables such as ball weight, number of throws, duration of program, variation of program are very important. Players age and level of physical preparedness are very important is designing a program. The biggest misconception is that throwing a heavier ball will adversely effect mechanics. The only possibility of this ever happening is if the player threw weighted balls EXCLUSIVELY for long, long periods of time. Weighted balls are typically used for periods of time prior to the start of a competitive season. They are also effective in "shocking" the muscles out of complacency (accommodation). Single L continues to push his long toss as a strength building tool even though I pointed out some months ago a study which refutes long toss as an effective arm strength method compared to actually throwing off of a mound (throwing off a mound places a higher stress level on the arm than long toss). Wayne mixes apples, oranges, and water melons (weight training, over load training).Wayne, please give us facts. Unless you have credentials, your opinion/belief are of no value in deciding the good/bad of over load training. Everyone has some form of an agenda (myself included). Max Back to Best of Max Index |