By Mike Green

It’s been said that hitting a baseball is one of the hardest things to do in sports. You’re trying to hit a round ball with a round bat, and the ball is moving in various directions. But, with enough practice and these three keys, you can make hitting easier and be more successful.

#1 – Relax.  You must be relaxed while at the plate.  If you are tense and concerned with the pressure of getting a hit, it will be difficult.  Besides, a relaxed muscle will fire quicker than a tense muscle, and a relaxed mind is a clear mind. See the ball, and hit it!

#2 – Balance.  Being balanced during your swing is a critical component to hitting. Watch the best hitters in the game:  when they swing and miss, they are still balanced. A good way to work on your balance is to take a swing and hold it when you’re finished. If you can “pose” after your swing, you are balanced. Swing hard enough to stay balanced in your finish.

#3 – See The Ball.  You have to be able to see the ball out of the pitchers hand, Work on finding the ball the instant before the pitcher releases it. You can practice this while on deck or in the dugout. This is an overlooked aspect of hitting and by far the most critical. Don’t follow the ball from the glove to release. Look at the pitcher’s hat or have a soft focus over his throwing shoulder, and then pinpoint your focus on the release.

Good luck!

Mike Green is a coach for the Sports Family Club, a website dedicated to enriching the lives of children through sports and activities.  To contact Coach Mike or find out more about the Sports Family Club, visit  http://thesportsfamilyclub.org/home