Order the Hurricane Hitting Machine and You Get to Take Advantage of 3 Things!
1. Great Price - $179.95
2. FREE SHIPPING
3. FREE Extra 3-pc Powerband Set, an $16.95 Value
Order Now and Take Advantage of this great offer!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Sunday, November 30, 2008
How to Become a Complete Baseball Player
By Bob Hines
This is the ultimate goal for a ball player right? Developing the "five tools". It takes commitment and dedication of course, but it also takes a positive attitude towards improvement.
I read a quote yesterday from a college coach that really stuck with me...
"you will never improve a skill or ability if you start out thinking you know everything about it."
Sounds simple enough. Some would say "keep an opened mind" says the same thing but I think there's more to it. My interpretation of this statement is... in order for a person to reach their goals they must be open to learning from others who have been down the road before them. In relationship to baseball it means listening to all advice and finding the good in it.
A baseball player will work with many coaches throughout their career. Youth players generally have different coaches every season. Some more experienced and knowledgeable than others. If you are lucky enough to play for a coach who really knows his or her stuff you will do yourself a great service by opening up, paying attention and taking in everything they want to teach you. You may not agree with everything, but take it in. Then you can balance that knowledge with what you have learned from others. This is how players improve... take the best lessons from the best coaches and put it all together. That's how you become a "complete" player.
For example, my friend's son has played for a coach the past 3 seasons who is VERY knowledgeable about hitting.. he played Div1 ball, was a powerhitter, taught him a lot. This coach also thought he knew a lot about baserunning. He knew some, but another coach this player worked with privately was a base stealing phemon who taught him things that the hitting coach had never learned. However, when the hitting coach gave him baserunning instruction he listened and took it in. Yet he practiced and used most of what the baserunning coach taught him. One day he had a game where he stole 3 bases. After the game the hitting coach said "say, great game today, you seem to have come up with a baserunning technique that really works for you, stay with it". Get the picture?
There are very few absolutes in baseball. While there are general guidelines on how to do things, every player is different. Players learn baseball skills in a way that fits them. That's why when you look at college and pro players, they all have similar elements in their swings, yet every swing is different.
Good coaches know that not all players have the same batting stance or the same load/stride technique, or the same stance when leading off 1st base. A good coach wants a player to get the most of their mental and physical ability.
The best advice to you, the player, is listen to all your coaches and take in the best parts from each. If you do this you will be well on your way to meeting your baseball goals and becoming a "complete player".
Coach Bob
Visit Coach Bob's Youth Baseball Blog @ http://youthbaseballblog.blogspot.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bob_Hines
This is the ultimate goal for a ball player right? Developing the "five tools". It takes commitment and dedication of course, but it also takes a positive attitude towards improvement.
I read a quote yesterday from a college coach that really stuck with me...
"you will never improve a skill or ability if you start out thinking you know everything about it."
Sounds simple enough. Some would say "keep an opened mind" says the same thing but I think there's more to it. My interpretation of this statement is... in order for a person to reach their goals they must be open to learning from others who have been down the road before them. In relationship to baseball it means listening to all advice and finding the good in it.
A baseball player will work with many coaches throughout their career. Youth players generally have different coaches every season. Some more experienced and knowledgeable than others. If you are lucky enough to play for a coach who really knows his or her stuff you will do yourself a great service by opening up, paying attention and taking in everything they want to teach you. You may not agree with everything, but take it in. Then you can balance that knowledge with what you have learned from others. This is how players improve... take the best lessons from the best coaches and put it all together. That's how you become a "complete" player.
For example, my friend's son has played for a coach the past 3 seasons who is VERY knowledgeable about hitting.. he played Div1 ball, was a powerhitter, taught him a lot. This coach also thought he knew a lot about baserunning. He knew some, but another coach this player worked with privately was a base stealing phemon who taught him things that the hitting coach had never learned. However, when the hitting coach gave him baserunning instruction he listened and took it in. Yet he practiced and used most of what the baserunning coach taught him. One day he had a game where he stole 3 bases. After the game the hitting coach said "say, great game today, you seem to have come up with a baserunning technique that really works for you, stay with it". Get the picture?
There are very few absolutes in baseball. While there are general guidelines on how to do things, every player is different. Players learn baseball skills in a way that fits them. That's why when you look at college and pro players, they all have similar elements in their swings, yet every swing is different.
Good coaches know that not all players have the same batting stance or the same load/stride technique, or the same stance when leading off 1st base. A good coach wants a player to get the most of their mental and physical ability.
The best advice to you, the player, is listen to all your coaches and take in the best parts from each. If you do this you will be well on your way to meeting your baseball goals and becoming a "complete player".
Coach Bob
Visit Coach Bob's Youth Baseball Blog @ http://youthbaseballblog.blogspot.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bob_Hines
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
6 Questions often asked about the Hurricane Machine
QUESTION: What is the main benefit of owning a Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine?
ANSWER: I feel the number one benefit is that the Hurricane Machine gives the player a wide variety of hitting drills that allow a player to perform specific drills designed to target a players individual needs and weaknesses. Each of these drills teaches or reinforces an important fundamental of hitting.
ANSWER: I feel the number one benefit is that the Hurricane Machine gives the player a wide variety of hitting drills that allow a player to perform specific drills designed to target a players individual needs and weaknesses. Each of these drills teaches or reinforces an important fundamental of hitting.
QUESTION: How long does it take to assemble the Hurricane? Are tools required for set-up?
ANSWER: No tools are required. You should read the owners manual completely from front to back cover before assembling or using your new Hurricane Batting Machine. The first time you assemble your new machine may take 10 minutes. After that, it should take only 5 minutes are less. If you can do so, we recommend setting your machine up in an unused corner or area of your yard. This allows hitters to practice more often or on impulse when they are bored during the day when Mom or Dad may not be at home. Of you must store your machine in a secure spot between uses, it will only take minutes to set up and take down each time you use it. The Hurricane is a totally user-friendly machine when it comes to use and set-up. If you should have trouble during set-up, please do not hesitate to call our toll free customer service number to talk directly to someone that can answer your questions or walk you through set-up. Call 1-877-431-4487.
QUESTION: What is involved in adjusting the height or speed of the Hurricane Machine?
ANSWER: The height is adjusted by loosening the height adjustment knob, raising or losering the machine to the desired height, and tightening the height adjustment knob. This should take less that 20 seconds to do. Speed adjustment is done by added a Powerband to increase speed and removing a Powerband to decrease speed. Make sure to always connect the Powerband to the bottom hook-bar first and then to the top hook. This prevents a Powerband from "popping" you in the face should your hand slip off of it when you are connecting it to the hook. Speed adjustment takes about 2 minutes.
QUESTION: How fast does the Hurricane Machine ball travel? What pitch speeds does the machine simulate?
ANSWER: The Hurricane ball return speed is determined by the power and bat speed of the batter. With two Powerbands in place, and a average high school hitter swinging the bat, the machine's return speed will simulate speeds reaching up to 60 to 65 mph. With younger players, the speeds simulated may average 45 to 60 mph depending on the power and bat speed of the batter. The harder the ball is hit; the faster the ball's speed when it returns to the batter.
QUESTION: Do you hit the ball moving or should the batter let it stop moving before each swing?
ANSWER: The real beauty of the Hurricane Machine is that you can do both. Players love to hit the fast moving ball. Most of the drills outlined in the owners manual are moving ball drills. However, some of the isolation drills that allow the batter to hit specific pitch locations are performed by allowing the ball to stop before each drill. I would say that 90% of the drills and workouts on the Hurricane Machine are fast ball moving drills. These are highly productive when it come to improving skill, building confidence and increasing bat speed.
QUESTION: What is the number one thing I need to make sure my player knows about the Hurricane before he or she uses it?
ANSWER: I would say that there are actually three things that I would tell them. First, they should always make sure no one is near when they are swinging the bat. They should clear the area before they begin to work. Second, they must realize that the Hurricane operates with a "wrapping and unwrapping" action. They must always allow the Hurricane Machine Powerbands to unwrap between bat swings. If they do not allow the machine to unwind before they swing again, they will stress and break the Powerbands. And last, I would make sure that they take time between swings to reset and assume a proper stance everytime. The Hurricane Machine is so easy and convenient that many times kids tend to work to fast. They must make themselves slow down, get in a proper stance, and take a quality swing each time. The emphasis should be on QUALITY and not QUANTITY when it comes to practice swings.
ONE LAST IMPORTANT POINT: Make sure that your hitter has batting gloves. The Hurricane will greatly increase the number of practice swings a players takes each day. Kids will sometimes take 300 to 500 swings a day. Often times they are not used to taking so many swings. Until their hands get used to it, they must have protection. They will get blisters if they do not have a good pair of batting gloves. So make sure your player has a good pair of batting gloves to wear when hitting the Hurricane Machine.
Note: If you have a question that we did not answer here, please do not hesitate to call us at our toll free number, 1-877-431-4487. We will gladly answer any other question that you might have.
Remember, we give you a Money-Back Guarantee when you buy the Hurricane Machine from us! You will not get that guarantee in other places. We want you to feel comfortable with your decision to buy by knowing that this is a RISK FREE OFFER. And most of all, we want you to be totally happy with the product you buy!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Be a Better Batter Through Repetition
Note: The following article related to the value of practice and swing repetition in the development of baseball skill. There is no better way to get repetitive swing practice than the Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machine.
Be a Better Batter Through Repetition
By: Anthony Stai
All parents want their children to reach their full potential in anything that they do. If you have kids playing baseball or softball then you know that one of the most exciting and difficult aspects is hitting. And since you may only get 3 to 5 at-bats per game then you want to make sure that they count.
Whether your kids are playing baseball or softball, if they can hit the ball like they want then they will enjoy playing so much more. There's nothing worse than watching a player walk back to the dugout dejected and sad.
So what can you do as a parent to instill confidence at the plate? The best way to accomplish this is with repetition. Unless you are willing to pitch to your kids 200 balls a day then they won't get the kind of repetition that will improve their batting. Plus, unless you have Nolan Ryan accuracy, you won't be doing your kids any favors by having them swing at pitches outside the strike zone. And, you'll save your arm for throwing that football in the fall.
The best tool for repetition is a pitching machine. Pitching machines come in a variety of types and costs. Some have large wheels and run on gas motors and can feed up to 12 baseball sized balls. Some are just for baseball and others just for softball. These are usually expensive for a parent to purchase and are bulky and can't be self-operated safely by young batters.
The less expensive options are portable whiffle ball pitching machines. Most of these use the golf ball sized whiffle balls and run on rechargeable batteries so they can be used almost anywhere. Plus, they are just as effective for softball players as baseball players.
Many ask, "Why golf ball sized whiffle balls?" The small balls force the batter to concentrate more and to aim for a smaller target. When you can hit a small target consistently then a larger target will be even easier to hit. Plus the small balls are inexpensive and can still be thrown at high speeds.
The whiffle ball pitching machines are lightweight, some hold up to 100 whiffle balls, adjusts from 20 mph to 60 mph, pitch consistently, can pitch curve balls and sliders from both right hand and left hand pitchers.Best of all, the whiffle ball pitching machines are FUN!
Kids and adults of all ages have fun hitting from these machine and it truly has the ability to increase the confidence and ability of young and older batters in a matter of minutes.
About The Author-- Anthony Stai is a proud contributing author and writes articles on several sports related topics including baseball. To learn more about the Personal Pitcher and a unique opportunity to get a FREE Personal Pitcher visit Free Personal Pitcher Pitching Machine at http://www.squidoo.com/personalpitcher for all the details and a personal review.
Be a Better Batter Through Repetition
By: Anthony Stai
All parents want their children to reach their full potential in anything that they do. If you have kids playing baseball or softball then you know that one of the most exciting and difficult aspects is hitting. And since you may only get 3 to 5 at-bats per game then you want to make sure that they count.
Whether your kids are playing baseball or softball, if they can hit the ball like they want then they will enjoy playing so much more. There's nothing worse than watching a player walk back to the dugout dejected and sad.
So what can you do as a parent to instill confidence at the plate? The best way to accomplish this is with repetition. Unless you are willing to pitch to your kids 200 balls a day then they won't get the kind of repetition that will improve their batting. Plus, unless you have Nolan Ryan accuracy, you won't be doing your kids any favors by having them swing at pitches outside the strike zone. And, you'll save your arm for throwing that football in the fall.
The best tool for repetition is a pitching machine. Pitching machines come in a variety of types and costs. Some have large wheels and run on gas motors and can feed up to 12 baseball sized balls. Some are just for baseball and others just for softball. These are usually expensive for a parent to purchase and are bulky and can't be self-operated safely by young batters.
The less expensive options are portable whiffle ball pitching machines. Most of these use the golf ball sized whiffle balls and run on rechargeable batteries so they can be used almost anywhere. Plus, they are just as effective for softball players as baseball players.
Many ask, "Why golf ball sized whiffle balls?" The small balls force the batter to concentrate more and to aim for a smaller target. When you can hit a small target consistently then a larger target will be even easier to hit. Plus the small balls are inexpensive and can still be thrown at high speeds.
The whiffle ball pitching machines are lightweight, some hold up to 100 whiffle balls, adjusts from 20 mph to 60 mph, pitch consistently, can pitch curve balls and sliders from both right hand and left hand pitchers.Best of all, the whiffle ball pitching machines are FUN!
Kids and adults of all ages have fun hitting from these machine and it truly has the ability to increase the confidence and ability of young and older batters in a matter of minutes.
About The Author-- Anthony Stai is a proud contributing author and writes articles on several sports related topics including baseball. To learn more about the Personal Pitcher and a unique opportunity to get a FREE Personal Pitcher visit Free Personal Pitcher Pitching Machine at http://www.squidoo.com/personalpitcher for all the details and a personal review.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Baseball Hitting - Getting the Hands to the Launch Position
Baseball Hitting - Getting the Hands to the Launch Position
"Baseball Hitting - Getting the Hands to the Launch Position"Hitting a baseball is a skill that can be learned and improved with proper coaching and instruction.It may be a difficult task, but with the correct fundamentals and techniques hitting can be one of the most rewarding activities in all of sports. There is nothing that is more satisfing and rewarding than hitting a line-drive in the left-center gap to help your team score the go-ahead run.
Many kids often experience cush a great sense of accomplishment while others suffer the embarrasment, disappointment, and despair of with striking out time after time. They feel that they let their team down and they often feel that they embarrass their coach and parents. The quickest way to achieving hitting success is to identify bad mechanics and correct them as soon as possible.
I will now give a brief overview of 3 aspects of a solid batting stance, swing and finish.
1. The GRIP - knocking knuckles, (not fighting knuckles) should be aligned. This positions the bat's handle in the fingers and out of the palm. This allows maximum wrist quickness and hand speed.Coaching Tip: Have kids check their grip by raising and pointing their index fingers. If they point in the same direction, they are aligned, if the point across each other, the grip is incorrect.
2. The BAT ANGLE at the start position. Keep in mind that the hands will move slightly back and away from the pitcher when the batter loads to the launch position. The bat's angle will not change during the loading process. The bat should be at a 45 degree angle over the shoulder. The bat should not be wrapped or tucked behind the head, this slows bat speed. The bat schoul be no more that 2 to 3 inches off the top of the shoulder.
3. The LOADING PROCESS is a simple and slight movement of the hands away from the pitcher. This is a movement that is so slight that many people do not notice it. The hands are the only things that move. If the batter is noticably shifting weight, moving feet, and moving other body parts, too much movement is occurring. Most times this movement is no move than 2 to 4 inches. It may be more for larger players.
LOADING is getting the hands to the launch position from which the forward swing motion starts. Different players use different loading actions. Some batters simply move the hands straight back and batters move the hands back and up at the same time. The loading process adds power, developes important timing and rhythmn, and allows the batter's body to achieve a comfortable ready position from which to launch swing.
COACHING POINT: Make sure that players do not line their knuckles up when you are looking and then move their hands to an "ax grip" when you walk away. One way to teach the benefits of the "finger grip position" is to have the two batters take several swing from shoulder-to-shoulder very quickly using the two grips. Take two batter's of similiar ability levels and with similiar hand speed and do this demonstration. Have one player use the "correct grip" and one use the "ax or incorrect grip". Have the batters take 10 shoulder-to-shoulder swings. See which batter completes the 10 swings first. This shows the kids how much faster the hands move when the correct grip is used. Note: Make sure to move the batters at a safe distance from each other and from other players when performing this illustration.
Buy Great Baseball Training Aids for Less at CoachesBest.com
"Baseball Hitting - Getting the Hands to the Launch Position"Hitting a baseball is a skill that can be learned and improved with proper coaching and instruction.It may be a difficult task, but with the correct fundamentals and techniques hitting can be one of the most rewarding activities in all of sports. There is nothing that is more satisfing and rewarding than hitting a line-drive in the left-center gap to help your team score the go-ahead run.
Many kids often experience cush a great sense of accomplishment while others suffer the embarrasment, disappointment, and despair of with striking out time after time. They feel that they let their team down and they often feel that they embarrass their coach and parents. The quickest way to achieving hitting success is to identify bad mechanics and correct them as soon as possible.
I will now give a brief overview of 3 aspects of a solid batting stance, swing and finish.
1. The GRIP - knocking knuckles, (not fighting knuckles) should be aligned. This positions the bat's handle in the fingers and out of the palm. This allows maximum wrist quickness and hand speed.Coaching Tip: Have kids check their grip by raising and pointing their index fingers. If they point in the same direction, they are aligned, if the point across each other, the grip is incorrect.
2. The BAT ANGLE at the start position. Keep in mind that the hands will move slightly back and away from the pitcher when the batter loads to the launch position. The bat's angle will not change during the loading process. The bat should be at a 45 degree angle over the shoulder. The bat should not be wrapped or tucked behind the head, this slows bat speed. The bat schoul be no more that 2 to 3 inches off the top of the shoulder.
3. The LOADING PROCESS is a simple and slight movement of the hands away from the pitcher. This is a movement that is so slight that many people do not notice it. The hands are the only things that move. If the batter is noticably shifting weight, moving feet, and moving other body parts, too much movement is occurring. Most times this movement is no move than 2 to 4 inches. It may be more for larger players.
LOADING is getting the hands to the launch position from which the forward swing motion starts. Different players use different loading actions. Some batters simply move the hands straight back and batters move the hands back and up at the same time. The loading process adds power, developes important timing and rhythmn, and allows the batter's body to achieve a comfortable ready position from which to launch swing.
COACHING POINT: Make sure that players do not line their knuckles up when you are looking and then move their hands to an "ax grip" when you walk away. One way to teach the benefits of the "finger grip position" is to have the two batters take several swing from shoulder-to-shoulder very quickly using the two grips. Take two batter's of similiar ability levels and with similiar hand speed and do this demonstration. Have one player use the "correct grip" and one use the "ax or incorrect grip". Have the batters take 10 shoulder-to-shoulder swings. See which batter completes the 10 swings first. This shows the kids how much faster the hands move when the correct grip is used. Note: Make sure to move the batters at a safe distance from each other and from other players when performing this illustration.
Buy Great Baseball Training Aids for Less at CoachesBest.com
Thursday, October 16, 2008
The Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machine - One of Baseball's Most Popular Training Products
Hurricane Machine - One of Baseball's Most Popular Training Products
"Endorsed by Derek Jeter"
The Derek Jeter Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine is guaranteed to improve hitting skills. The engineering and technology that went into the design of this machine make it superior in quality, performance and productivity to other practice machines.
The Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine is "second to none" when it comes to boosting batting averages,increasing bat speed and power, eliminating strikeouts, and enhancing personal and team performances. Yes, it's revolutionizing home and team workouts.It is becoming a known fact that the hitter that works out regularly, on this machine, will have an advantage over a hitter that does not.
The Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine allows more versatility, repetition, and correct fundamental practice than any other machine ever invented. The Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine produces hitting success!
When you buy a Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine, Satisfaction is 100% Guaranteed!
HurricaneMachine.com
"Endorsed by Derek Jeter"
The Derek Jeter Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine is guaranteed to improve hitting skills. The engineering and technology that went into the design of this machine make it superior in quality, performance and productivity to other practice machines.
The Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine is "second to none" when it comes to boosting batting averages,increasing bat speed and power, eliminating strikeouts, and enhancing personal and team performances. Yes, it's revolutionizing home and team workouts.It is becoming a known fact that the hitter that works out regularly, on this machine, will have an advantage over a hitter that does not.
The Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine allows more versatility, repetition, and correct fundamental practice than any other machine ever invented. The Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine produces hitting success!
When you buy a Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine, Satisfaction is 100% Guaranteed!
HurricaneMachine.com
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Hurricane Machine Drills - Top Hand and Power Hand Drills
Drill: “Top-Hand”
“One-handed drill builds strength and skill.”
Objective: The “Top-Hand” drill builds and develops arm strength in the wrist, forearms and biceps. The drill is used to improve hand-eye coordination of the top hand.
Procedure: The batter will hit the ball using only the batters top hand. The batter may “step into the ball” and use the lower body, hips and legs to help generate more power with these one-handed swings.
Recommended Number of Swings: Beginners should begin with 10 swings. Each week the batter should add 10 more swings until the batter can take 60 swings with a bat of normal weight. Advanced hitters may wish to use a weighted bat and increase the number of swings taken.
Coaching Point: The bat will always go where the top-hand takes it with the power generated by the bottom-hand. Players perform the “Top-Hand” drill with the top hand in its normal position on the bat grip. There should be an effort made to take a short, compact, and deliberate swing that perfectly hits the “bulb” of the ball. This drill can be performed with a still or moving ball. The batter may wish to kneel and perform this drill on one knee to make the arms muscle work above the shoulder thus building more strength.
Drill: “Bottom-Hand”
“One-handed drill improves bat speed and power.”
Objective: To build and develop wrist, forearm, and muscle strength in the batters “bottom or pull hand.” The bottom hand generates most of the swings power and bat speed.
Procedure: The batter will hit the ball using the batters bottom hand on the bat grip. The batter may “step into the ball” and use the lower body, hips and legs to generate a more powerful swing.
Recommended Number of Swings: Beginners should begin with 10 swings. Each week the batter should add 10 more swings until the batter can take 60 swings with a bat of normal weight. Advanced hitters may with to use a weighted bat and increase the number of swings taken.
Coaching Point: The batter should perform this drill with “pull or bottom hand” in its normal position on the bats grip. There should be an effort made to take a short, compact, and deliberate swing that perfectly hit the “bulb” of the ball.
This drill can be performed with a still or moving ball. It is recommended that this drill be performed with the ball set at its highest level possible to make the ball utilize the muscles of the arm rather than using gravity to move the bat.
The ball must be chest high to the batter to maximize the benefits received.
Very tall batters may have to kneel on a knee to perform the drill.
Buy the Derek Jeter Hurricane Machine at Discount Prices and with Free Shipping
Buy Replacement Ball Units, Powerbands, and other Parts for the Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machine
Hurricane Powerband Set of 3
Hurricane Machine - Ball Replacement Unit
“One-handed drill builds strength and skill.”
Objective: The “Top-Hand” drill builds and develops arm strength in the wrist, forearms and biceps. The drill is used to improve hand-eye coordination of the top hand.
Procedure: The batter will hit the ball using only the batters top hand. The batter may “step into the ball” and use the lower body, hips and legs to help generate more power with these one-handed swings.
Recommended Number of Swings: Beginners should begin with 10 swings. Each week the batter should add 10 more swings until the batter can take 60 swings with a bat of normal weight. Advanced hitters may wish to use a weighted bat and increase the number of swings taken.
Coaching Point: The bat will always go where the top-hand takes it with the power generated by the bottom-hand. Players perform the “Top-Hand” drill with the top hand in its normal position on the bat grip. There should be an effort made to take a short, compact, and deliberate swing that perfectly hits the “bulb” of the ball. This drill can be performed with a still or moving ball. The batter may wish to kneel and perform this drill on one knee to make the arms muscle work above the shoulder thus building more strength.
Drill: “Bottom-Hand”
“One-handed drill improves bat speed and power.”
Objective: To build and develop wrist, forearm, and muscle strength in the batters “bottom or pull hand.” The bottom hand generates most of the swings power and bat speed.
Procedure: The batter will hit the ball using the batters bottom hand on the bat grip. The batter may “step into the ball” and use the lower body, hips and legs to generate a more powerful swing.
Recommended Number of Swings: Beginners should begin with 10 swings. Each week the batter should add 10 more swings until the batter can take 60 swings with a bat of normal weight. Advanced hitters may with to use a weighted bat and increase the number of swings taken.
Coaching Point: The batter should perform this drill with “pull or bottom hand” in its normal position on the bats grip. There should be an effort made to take a short, compact, and deliberate swing that perfectly hit the “bulb” of the ball.
This drill can be performed with a still or moving ball. It is recommended that this drill be performed with the ball set at its highest level possible to make the ball utilize the muscles of the arm rather than using gravity to move the bat.
The ball must be chest high to the batter to maximize the benefits received.
Very tall batters may have to kneel on a knee to perform the drill.
Buy the Derek Jeter Hurricane Machine at Discount Prices and with Free Shipping
Buy Replacement Ball Units, Powerbands, and other Parts for the Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machine
Hurricane Powerband Set of 3
Hurricane Machine - Ball Replacement Unit
Friday, October 3, 2008
Baseball Instruction - What to Change If You Hit Lots of Groundballs
By Nate Barnett
Because there are so many intricate moving parts within the baseball swing, it's tough to keep everything moving well, all of the time. Add the fact that the pitcher is trying to mess up everything you've learned in all your hours of baseball instruction and you've got some serious challenges.
One of the most common questions I get as a hitting instructor is solving the problem of grounding out repetitively to the pull side (left side of the field as a righty, right side of the field as a lefty). There are multiple causes of this problem, but chances are that it's one of the below issues I'll cover.
1. The most common hitting mistake that leads to frequent ground outs is too much weight transferring forward onto the front leg. Good hitting stems from energy that is stored onto the back leg. Therefore, when preparing for the job of hitting a baseball, the hitter must shift some weight onto his back leg before the baseball swing begins. If the hitter doesn't shift the weight to his back leg, or doesn't keep the weight there as he swings, he will begin to transfer weight to his front foot and become off balance. This balance problem (too much weight on the front foot) will cause a lot of baseballs that are hit in a downward angle.
2. A second cause of hitting ground balls to the pull side is the opening of the front hip too soon. As mentioned above, the back side of a hitter's body creates power and energy. The front side of the body (front foot, knee, and hip) are then responsible for controlling some of that energy and channeling it into the correct direction, back to the pitcher. If the front hip begins to rotate at the same moment the back knee and hip begin to turn, energy will be moving away from the contact zone. Because of this, many times the bat will enter the hitting zone and come into contact with the ball as it's moving away from the plate causing a ground ball or top spin line drive (bad spin) to the pull side.
3. One last cause is an improper hand path into the hitting zone. Some of the problem can stem from poor front hip control, but sometimes it's just the hands that are the issue. In general, and without being too technical on this part of the baseball swing, the hands should stay near the body as they enter the hitting zone. Hands that stray away from the body will cause a bat that is sweeping through the zone. A bat that sweeps will not be moving towards the pitch on contact with the ball. Instead, the bat will be moving away and to the pull side. This is improper extension and will be the cause of multiple issues ranging from a slow bat to getting jammed on a lot of inside pitches.
Finally, my suggestion would be do a search on the internet for some pictures or videos of major league hitters and look for the parts of the swing mentioned in this article. It's only with a visual that you will begin to learn and understand the intricate details of a good baseball swing. Once you learn some of the techniques, implementing some exercises into your youth baseball drills will make all the difference in correcting this problem.
Nate Barnett is owner of BMI Baseball http://bmibaseball.com and is based out of Washington State. His expertise is in the area of hitting, pitching, and mental training. Coach Barnett's passion is working with youth in helping expand their vision for their baseball future. After finishing a professional career in the Seattle Mariners Organization, Nate pursued his coaching and motivational training career. His instructional blog is located at http://bmibaseball.com/blog
His new FREE ebook, Toxic Baseball: Are you polluting your game? can be found on the main BMI Baseball website.
Hitting Mechanics 101, an ebook on complete hitting mechanics will be released in June, 2008. Features include numerous illustrations, video clips, and a special offer to discuss your hitting questions over live on the phone strategy sessions.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nate_Barnett
Because there are so many intricate moving parts within the baseball swing, it's tough to keep everything moving well, all of the time. Add the fact that the pitcher is trying to mess up everything you've learned in all your hours of baseball instruction and you've got some serious challenges.
One of the most common questions I get as a hitting instructor is solving the problem of grounding out repetitively to the pull side (left side of the field as a righty, right side of the field as a lefty). There are multiple causes of this problem, but chances are that it's one of the below issues I'll cover.
1. The most common hitting mistake that leads to frequent ground outs is too much weight transferring forward onto the front leg. Good hitting stems from energy that is stored onto the back leg. Therefore, when preparing for the job of hitting a baseball, the hitter must shift some weight onto his back leg before the baseball swing begins. If the hitter doesn't shift the weight to his back leg, or doesn't keep the weight there as he swings, he will begin to transfer weight to his front foot and become off balance. This balance problem (too much weight on the front foot) will cause a lot of baseballs that are hit in a downward angle.
2. A second cause of hitting ground balls to the pull side is the opening of the front hip too soon. As mentioned above, the back side of a hitter's body creates power and energy. The front side of the body (front foot, knee, and hip) are then responsible for controlling some of that energy and channeling it into the correct direction, back to the pitcher. If the front hip begins to rotate at the same moment the back knee and hip begin to turn, energy will be moving away from the contact zone. Because of this, many times the bat will enter the hitting zone and come into contact with the ball as it's moving away from the plate causing a ground ball or top spin line drive (bad spin) to the pull side.
3. One last cause is an improper hand path into the hitting zone. Some of the problem can stem from poor front hip control, but sometimes it's just the hands that are the issue. In general, and without being too technical on this part of the baseball swing, the hands should stay near the body as they enter the hitting zone. Hands that stray away from the body will cause a bat that is sweeping through the zone. A bat that sweeps will not be moving towards the pitch on contact with the ball. Instead, the bat will be moving away and to the pull side. This is improper extension and will be the cause of multiple issues ranging from a slow bat to getting jammed on a lot of inside pitches.
Finally, my suggestion would be do a search on the internet for some pictures or videos of major league hitters and look for the parts of the swing mentioned in this article. It's only with a visual that you will begin to learn and understand the intricate details of a good baseball swing. Once you learn some of the techniques, implementing some exercises into your youth baseball drills will make all the difference in correcting this problem.
Nate Barnett is owner of BMI Baseball http://bmibaseball.com and is based out of Washington State. His expertise is in the area of hitting, pitching, and mental training. Coach Barnett's passion is working with youth in helping expand their vision for their baseball future. After finishing a professional career in the Seattle Mariners Organization, Nate pursued his coaching and motivational training career. His instructional blog is located at http://bmibaseball.com/blog
His new FREE ebook, Toxic Baseball: Are you polluting your game? can be found on the main BMI Baseball website.
Hitting Mechanics 101, an ebook on complete hitting mechanics will be released in June, 2008. Features include numerous illustrations, video clips, and a special offer to discuss your hitting questions over live on the phone strategy sessions.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nate_Barnett
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machine - "Hip Turner" Drill
You can use the Hurricane Hitting Machine to easily teach young players what is meant by "Hip Turn" and "Turn on the Ball".
It is often difficult and hard to teach younger hitters is the process of using the hips to generate power and bat speed. The key first element to teaching them to use their hips is to do a drill that allows them to see and feel how the hips should turn. The "Hip Turner" drill works great for this purpose. Have the batter assume the "inside pitch location" drill position.
The Hurricane Machine Ball should be directed at the batters front hip with the ball's location inside and out in front of the front leg.The batter will then look away from the ball and find a "landmark" to identify visually. It is great to have a player or coach stand behind the batter at a safe distance. The coach will instruct the batter to assume the ready position and then look back at their teammate or coach. The coach then gives the player the instruction to take a full swing, turn the hips completely, and then look at your teammate or coach from the other side. This look, swing and look, process is done for 4 swings.
This over exaggeration of the hip involvement allows young players to see how the hips turn, how much the hips can turn, and to usderstand what their coach means when he says "turn on that inside pitch". Then the batter is allowed to take 6 more swings.
Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machines at Discount Prices at CoachesBest.com.
It is often difficult and hard to teach younger hitters is the process of using the hips to generate power and bat speed. The key first element to teaching them to use their hips is to do a drill that allows them to see and feel how the hips should turn. The "Hip Turner" drill works great for this purpose. Have the batter assume the "inside pitch location" drill position.
The Hurricane Machine Ball should be directed at the batters front hip with the ball's location inside and out in front of the front leg.The batter will then look away from the ball and find a "landmark" to identify visually. It is great to have a player or coach stand behind the batter at a safe distance. The coach will instruct the batter to assume the ready position and then look back at their teammate or coach. The coach then gives the player the instruction to take a full swing, turn the hips completely, and then look at your teammate or coach from the other side. This look, swing and look, process is done for 4 swings.
This over exaggeration of the hip involvement allows young players to see how the hips turn, how much the hips can turn, and to usderstand what their coach means when he says "turn on that inside pitch". Then the batter is allowed to take 6 more swings.
Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machines at Discount Prices at CoachesBest.com.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Baseball Instruction - Is it Just Your Imagination? by Nate Barnett
Have you even been up to bat or on the mound and wanted to hide? Just maybe crawl under the plate, or peel back the pitching rubber and slip underneath for a bit and let someone else deal with the situation?
I'm laughing while I'm writing this because I can't tell you how many times those thoughts had occurred to me while playing through college and professionally. But, for every one of those quick moments of despair, confusion, uncertainty, or dread, I've had dozens of high quality confident thoughts. And that is the key. The ratio of high quality to low quality thoughts needs to be significantly greater.
So, if you are working with an athlete (or 13 of them) who struggles with confidence on the field, take some of these words to heart and reach out and include these ideas in your baseball instruction.
An athlete can only have two different kinds of thoughts while playing the game, high quality and low quality. Here are the definitions of each. Click Here to Read Entire Article at Baseball Coaches Digest.
CoachesBest.com - Quality Products, Quality Service, Low Prices
I'm laughing while I'm writing this because I can't tell you how many times those thoughts had occurred to me while playing through college and professionally. But, for every one of those quick moments of despair, confusion, uncertainty, or dread, I've had dozens of high quality confident thoughts. And that is the key. The ratio of high quality to low quality thoughts needs to be significantly greater.
So, if you are working with an athlete (or 13 of them) who struggles with confidence on the field, take some of these words to heart and reach out and include these ideas in your baseball instruction.
An athlete can only have two different kinds of thoughts while playing the game, high quality and low quality. Here are the definitions of each. Click Here to Read Entire Article at Baseball Coaches Digest.
CoachesBest.com - Quality Products, Quality Service, Low Prices
Monday, September 22, 2008
HURRICANE TRAINER QUESTION: What is the number one thing I need to make sure my player knows about the Hurricane Machine before he or she uses it?
ANSWER: I would say that there are actually three things that I would tell them. First, they should always make sure no one is near when they are swinging the bat. They should clear the area before they begin to work. Second, they must realize that the Hurricane operates with a "wrapping and unwrapping" action. They must always allow the Hurricane Machine Powerbands to unwrap between bat swings. If they do not allow the machine to unwind before they swing again, they will stress and break the Powerbands. And last, I would make sure that they take time between swings to reset and assume a proper stance everytime.
The Hurricane Machine is so easy and convenient that many times kids tend to work to fast. They must make themselves slow down, get in a proper stance, and take a quality swing each time. The emphasis should be on QUALITY and not QUANTITY when it comes to practice swings.
HurricaneMachine.com
Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machines at Discount Prices at Baseball2u.com
The Hurricane Machine is so easy and convenient that many times kids tend to work to fast. They must make themselves slow down, get in a proper stance, and take a quality swing each time. The emphasis should be on QUALITY and not QUANTITY when it comes to practice swings.
HurricaneMachine.com
Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machines at Discount Prices at Baseball2u.com
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Derek Jeter Hurricnae Hitting Machine Question: How fast does the Hurricane Machine ball travel?
QUESTION: How fast does the Hurricane Machine ball travel? What pitch speeds does the machine simulate?
ANSWER: The Hurricane ball return speed is determined by the power and bat speed of the batter. With two Powerbands in place, and a average high school hitter swinging the bat, the machine's return speed will simulate speeds reaching up to 60 to 65 mph. With younger players, the speeds simulated may average 45 to 60 mph depending on the power and bat speed of the batter. The harder the ball is hit; the faster the ball's speed when it returns to the batter.
HurricaneTrainer.com
CoachesBest.com sells Hurricane Machine's at Discount Prices.
ANSWER: The Hurricane ball return speed is determined by the power and bat speed of the batter. With two Powerbands in place, and a average high school hitter swinging the bat, the machine's return speed will simulate speeds reaching up to 60 to 65 mph. With younger players, the speeds simulated may average 45 to 60 mph depending on the power and bat speed of the batter. The harder the ball is hit; the faster the ball's speed when it returns to the batter.
HurricaneTrainer.com
CoachesBest.com sells Hurricane Machine's at Discount Prices.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
QUESTION: How long does it take to assemble the Hurricane? Are tools required for set-up?
No tools are required.
You should read the owners manual completely from front to back cover before assembling or using your new Hurricane Batting Machine. The first time you assemble your new machine may take 10 minutes.
After that, it should take only 5 minutes are less. If you can do so, we recommend setting your machine up in an unused corner or area of your yard. This allows hitters to practice more often or on impulse when they are bored during the day when Mom or Dad may not be at home. Of you must store your machine in a secure spot between uses, it will only take minutes to set up and take down each time you use it.
The Hurricane is a totally user-friendly machine when it comes to use and set-up. If you should have trouble during set-up, please do not hesitate to call our toll free customer service number to talk directly to someone that can answer your questions or walk you through set-up. Call 1-877-431-4487.
HurricaneTrainer.com
You should read the owners manual completely from front to back cover before assembling or using your new Hurricane Batting Machine. The first time you assemble your new machine may take 10 minutes.
After that, it should take only 5 minutes are less. If you can do so, we recommend setting your machine up in an unused corner or area of your yard. This allows hitters to practice more often or on impulse when they are bored during the day when Mom or Dad may not be at home. Of you must store your machine in a secure spot between uses, it will only take minutes to set up and take down each time you use it.
The Hurricane is a totally user-friendly machine when it comes to use and set-up. If you should have trouble during set-up, please do not hesitate to call our toll free customer service number to talk directly to someone that can answer your questions or walk you through set-up. Call 1-877-431-4487.
HurricaneTrainer.com
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Hurricane Replacement Parts
How to Purchase Hurricane Replacement Parts:
There are really only 2 parts on your Hurricane Trainer that you will have to eventually replace. They are the Hurricane impact head ball component and the Hurricane powerbands.
These Hurricane parts can be purchased at www.CoachesBest.com and are in stock and normally ship within 1 business day.
The impact head is the rod that has the ball attached to the end and extends out into the hitting zone. This part is warrantied by Sklz for 90 days, but should last anywhere from 1 to 3 yrs, depending on amount of use and the age of the users. It takes just seconds to replace the old one with the new one when purchased.
The Hurricane powerbands are the 3 bungee cords that are included with the package. These cords are what stop and return the machine when the hitter contacts the ball. The powerbands should last 3 to 6 months, but some last even longer. Again, it depends on the amount of use.
These powerbands will also last longer if they are kept out of the rain and sun when not in use.
Another tip to make the powerbands last is to make sure the hitter lets the machine properly "unwind" before contacting the ball again. In other words, make sure the powerbands uncoil from around the column housing before hitting the next pitch. Do not just keep hitting and winding the cords. They will stretch and eventually break.
To view or purchase these parts, click on the following link and scroll to the bottom.
http://store.baseball2u.com/husotrmajese.html
Have a nice day, Nick.
There are really only 2 parts on your Hurricane Trainer that you will have to eventually replace. They are the Hurricane impact head ball component and the Hurricane powerbands.
These Hurricane parts can be purchased at www.CoachesBest.com and are in stock and normally ship within 1 business day.
The impact head is the rod that has the ball attached to the end and extends out into the hitting zone. This part is warrantied by Sklz for 90 days, but should last anywhere from 1 to 3 yrs, depending on amount of use and the age of the users. It takes just seconds to replace the old one with the new one when purchased.
The Hurricane powerbands are the 3 bungee cords that are included with the package. These cords are what stop and return the machine when the hitter contacts the ball. The powerbands should last 3 to 6 months, but some last even longer. Again, it depends on the amount of use.
These powerbands will also last longer if they are kept out of the rain and sun when not in use.
Another tip to make the powerbands last is to make sure the hitter lets the machine properly "unwind" before contacting the ball again. In other words, make sure the powerbands uncoil from around the column housing before hitting the next pitch. Do not just keep hitting and winding the cords. They will stretch and eventually break.
To view or purchase these parts, click on the following link and scroll to the bottom.
http://store.baseball2u.com/husotrmajese.html
Have a nice day, Nick.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Troubleshooting the Hurricane Machine
Troubleshooting the Hurricane Machine
Today we will discuss 2 situations that some of our Hurricane Machine owners have encountered over the years. The Hurricane Machine has a very simple design and requires very little troubleshooting. However, the 2 following things could happen to your Hurricane and we offer the solution to each below.
Problem 1: The Hurricane powerbands get caught up on the height adjustment knob when the unit rotates around after the hitter contacts the ball.
Solution: Always make sure the height adjustment collar's knob is lined up directly under the knob on the right side of the top component. The top component is the 2" square metal piece that houses the square end of the impact head ball component. Making sure these two knobs stay lined up under one another should correct this problem.
Problem 2: When hit, the ball will not come back to the hitter smoothly. Instead, it stops or pauses when returning to the hitter.
Solution: If this problem occurs, all you need to do is lubricate the axle of your machine. The axle is the shaft that rotates inside the column housing. We recommend a heavy duty type grease be used so you will not have to do this very often. You can also use a spray lubricant. However, if you use a spray lubricant, such as silicone, you will have to re-apply on a regular basis. The better grease you use, the less you have to re-apply. If you use a good grease, you should only have to grease the unit 1 time per year.
Hopefully, this info will help you Hurricane owners get the most out of your investment.
Have a nice day, Nick
Today we will discuss 2 situations that some of our Hurricane Machine owners have encountered over the years. The Hurricane Machine has a very simple design and requires very little troubleshooting. However, the 2 following things could happen to your Hurricane and we offer the solution to each below.
Problem 1: The Hurricane powerbands get caught up on the height adjustment knob when the unit rotates around after the hitter contacts the ball.
Solution: Always make sure the height adjustment collar's knob is lined up directly under the knob on the right side of the top component. The top component is the 2" square metal piece that houses the square end of the impact head ball component. Making sure these two knobs stay lined up under one another should correct this problem.
Problem 2: When hit, the ball will not come back to the hitter smoothly. Instead, it stops or pauses when returning to the hitter.
Solution: If this problem occurs, all you need to do is lubricate the axle of your machine. The axle is the shaft that rotates inside the column housing. We recommend a heavy duty type grease be used so you will not have to do this very often. You can also use a spray lubricant. However, if you use a spray lubricant, such as silicone, you will have to re-apply on a regular basis. The better grease you use, the less you have to re-apply. If you use a good grease, you should only have to grease the unit 1 time per year.
Hopefully, this info will help you Hurricane owners get the most out of your investment.
Have a nice day, Nick
Monday, August 11, 2008
Hurricane Hitting Machine FAQ.
Just a few of the questions our customer service reps answer about the Hurricane.......
Hurricane Machine Frequently Asked Questions:
What ages can use the Hurricane Machine?
Answer: The Hurricane is recommended for ages 6 & up.
How long doe it take to assemble the Hurricane Machine?
Answer: Initial assembly takes around 5-7 minutes following the instruction booklet. Assembly and disassembly after the initial setup takes about 2 minutes. No tools are required to assemble the Hurricane. It assembles with 9 hand tightened knobs.
What powers the Hurricane Machine?
Answer: The machine is powered by heavy-duty bungee cords. These cords stop the unit's rotation and bring the ball component back into the hitting zone for the hitter to contact again. The hitter gets a swing every 4-7 seconds.
What are the height adjustments of the Hurricane Machine?
Answer: The Hurricane Machine will adjust from 25" to 38". However, because of the flexibility of the ball impact rod, the hitter gets a different height pitch each time. This makes the hitter adjust on each swing instead of swinging on the same plane or in the same spot to contact the ball. The machine simulates live pitching scenarios by making the hitter adjust with each swing.
Where can the Hurricane Machine be used?
Answer: The machine can be used indoors or outdoors. Many people use them in their garage or basements in the off-season. The machine can also be easily transported to and from practices and games in it's included carrying bag.
Does the Hurricane Machine benefit fastpitch softball players also?
Answer: Yes, the Hurricane Machine benefits fastpitch softball players and baseball players. There are many fastpitch teams and players using the machine today.
What warranties or guarantees are included with the Hurricane Machine?
Answer: The Hurricane Machine comes with a 90 day Money-Back Guarantee and a 90 day warranty.
Feel free to ask any other questions you may have about the Hurricane Machine.
Have a nice day, Nick.
Hurricane Machine Frequently Asked Questions:
What ages can use the Hurricane Machine?
Answer: The Hurricane is recommended for ages 6 & up.
How long doe it take to assemble the Hurricane Machine?
Answer: Initial assembly takes around 5-7 minutes following the instruction booklet. Assembly and disassembly after the initial setup takes about 2 minutes. No tools are required to assemble the Hurricane. It assembles with 9 hand tightened knobs.
What powers the Hurricane Machine?
Answer: The machine is powered by heavy-duty bungee cords. These cords stop the unit's rotation and bring the ball component back into the hitting zone for the hitter to contact again. The hitter gets a swing every 4-7 seconds.
What are the height adjustments of the Hurricane Machine?
Answer: The Hurricane Machine will adjust from 25" to 38". However, because of the flexibility of the ball impact rod, the hitter gets a different height pitch each time. This makes the hitter adjust on each swing instead of swinging on the same plane or in the same spot to contact the ball. The machine simulates live pitching scenarios by making the hitter adjust with each swing.
Where can the Hurricane Machine be used?
Answer: The machine can be used indoors or outdoors. Many people use them in their garage or basements in the off-season. The machine can also be easily transported to and from practices and games in it's included carrying bag.
Does the Hurricane Machine benefit fastpitch softball players also?
Answer: Yes, the Hurricane Machine benefits fastpitch softball players and baseball players. There are many fastpitch teams and players using the machine today.
What warranties or guarantees are included with the Hurricane Machine?
Answer: The Hurricane Machine comes with a 90 day Money-Back Guarantee and a 90 day warranty.
Feel free to ask any other questions you may have about the Hurricane Machine.
Have a nice day, Nick.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Hurricane Machine Hitting Drill
"Step-in-and-Hit" Drill
Objective: This drill emphasizes “stepping into” the ball to generate power and bat speed. This is an excellent drill to help young hitters eliminate the bad habit of “stepping out” during the swing.
Procedure: The batter starts the drill by standing farther away from the machine than normal. This starting position allows the batter to take two steps inward before swinging the bat.
The batter will step first with the back foot and then with the front foot. When the front foot “lands” the batter attacks the ball. The drill may be performed with a still or moving ball. The batter should take the time to set and observe all body movement before and after each swing.
It is sometimes good to have the batter freeze after the swing to see if the proper finish position is reached after each swing. The batter should make sure to make contact with the ball component and not the shaft.
Recommended Number of Swings: 10 Swings
Coaching Point: The “Step-In-And-Hit” drill is a drill that every coach and parent should be familiar with and know about. At young levels of play we often see a batter “step-out”. The batter may have a fear of being hit. This drill works great in helping break this bad habit.
Procedure: The batter starts the drill by standing farther away from the machine than normal. This starting position allows the batter to take two steps inward before swinging the bat.
The batter will step first with the back foot and then with the front foot. When the front foot “lands” the batter attacks the ball. The drill may be performed with a still or moving ball. The batter should take the time to set and observe all body movement before and after each swing.
It is sometimes good to have the batter freeze after the swing to see if the proper finish position is reached after each swing. The batter should make sure to make contact with the ball component and not the shaft.
Recommended Number of Swings: 10 Swings
Coaching Point: The “Step-In-And-Hit” drill is a drill that every coach and parent should be familiar with and know about. At young levels of play we often see a batter “step-out”. The batter may have a fear of being hit. This drill works great in helping break this bad habit.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Hurricane: A Great Tool for Off-Season Training
The Jeter Hurricane Machine is a great tool for keeping your hitters in shape during the off-season. Many people make use of this machine during the months that they cannot practice outdoors....especially in the Northern parts of the country where Winters are longer and more harsh.
Working out on the Hurricane Machine just 15-30 minutes a day 2-3 times a week can keep your hitters tuned up and have them that much closer to being ready when the season rolls back around. Every year, more and more kids and leagues play more and more games. Keeping your hitters in shape year 'round can be greatly beneficial to them and their success.
People all over the country are using the Hurricane Machine in the Winter months in places such as the garage and basement. All you need is 12' by 9' of open space to use this product indoors.
Set the Hurricane up and leave it so your players can practice hitting whenever they wish without having to go through any setup. This allows kids to practice on impulse, which will increase the amount of times they want to practice. If a player can just pick up a bat and start hitting, they are subject to practice hitting more often. No gathering balls, no feeding or loading balls, no coaches or other players needed......JUST HITTING!
To find out more great benefits of the Hurricane Batting Machine, visit www.HurricaneMachine.com.
Have a great day, Nick.
Working out on the Hurricane Machine just 15-30 minutes a day 2-3 times a week can keep your hitters tuned up and have them that much closer to being ready when the season rolls back around. Every year, more and more kids and leagues play more and more games. Keeping your hitters in shape year 'round can be greatly beneficial to them and their success.
People all over the country are using the Hurricane Machine in the Winter months in places such as the garage and basement. All you need is 12' by 9' of open space to use this product indoors.
Set the Hurricane up and leave it so your players can practice hitting whenever they wish without having to go through any setup. This allows kids to practice on impulse, which will increase the amount of times they want to practice. If a player can just pick up a bat and start hitting, they are subject to practice hitting more often. No gathering balls, no feeding or loading balls, no coaches or other players needed......JUST HITTING!
To find out more great benefits of the Hurricane Batting Machine, visit www.HurricaneMachine.com.
Have a great day, Nick.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
The Derek Jeter Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine - Tip for Adjusting Height
Good morning. When adjusting the height of your new Hurricane Baseball Trainer, there are several things you must remember.
- When making height adjustments, never grab the machine's axle. Always lift or lower the top component by the top head.
- If you change your height you may have to readjust the tension of your powerbands. Make sure the powerbands are tight enough to return the ball after contact.
- It is better to practice hitting the ball at all locations. Hitting must pratice hitting the low strike because pitchers are going to try and keep the ball down.
- Arm strength and bat speed can be increased faster and easier when the batter pactices hitting the high settings.
Have a great day, Nick
Monday, July 21, 2008
Derek Jeter Hurricane Baseball Machine is great for learning to "Switch Hit"
Hello. I hope you had a great weekend.
There are many great benefits to owning a Hurricane Baseball Trainer. One such benefit is that the Derek Jeter SKLZ Hurricane Machine is a great tool for helping young players learn to Switch Hit. Points to remember when practicing switch hitting on the Hurricane Baseball Trainer are:
There are many great benefits to owning a Hurricane Baseball Trainer. One such benefit is that the Derek Jeter SKLZ Hurricane Machine is a great tool for helping young players learn to Switch Hit. Points to remember when practicing switch hitting on the Hurricane Baseball Trainer are:
- When doing switch hitting drills, there is no need to stop, adjust or change the machine's setting.
- The batter can hit both right and left handed from the same spot without moving.
- The batter should not work too fast. It is important to work at a pace that allows the batter to reset or reload between swings.
- Full swings and power should be taken with each swing.
Good Luck till next time, Nick
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Hurricane Batting Trainer Hip Turner Drill
The Hip Turner Drill is a great drill for players who are having difficulty getting their lower body involved in their swing. This drill will help your hitter get maximim rotation in the hips during impact of the ball.
Hurricane Hip Turner Drill
Hurricane Hip Turner Drill
- This drill is the perfect drill for hitters who lack power or do not get their lower body and involved in the swing.
- To perform the drill, the hitter points the Hurricane impact ball at his/her front side back pocket. So for a righty, the ball should be positioned towards the left back pocket of the hitter as if trying to hit an extreme inside pitch.
- The hitter then contacts the ball opening the hips all the way up getting maximum rotation. The ball should be positioned so the hitter must exagerate hip rotation in order to make contact.
- The hitter should get a swing every 10 seconds or so after the ball returns and comes nearly settled much like a tee drill.
- The hitter should not take a stride in this drill- just rotate fully at the hips when making contact with the ball.
Note: Make sure the hitter does not step out or stride open during this drill. If the hitter opens up instead of rotating fully at the hips, the effectiveness of the drill is lost.
Good Luck until next time, Nick.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Derek Jeter Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine - Hitting Streak Drill
The Baseball "Hitting Streak" or "Batting Streak" Drill is one of the most pupular Derek Jeter Hurricane Machine baseball training drills. The drill is fun, entertaining and challenging for hitters of all ages and ability levels.
Hurricane Machine "Hitting Streak" Baseball Training Drill
Hurricane Machine "Hitting Streak" Baseball Training Drill
- The drill can be a competition between two or more players or the batter can compete against his or her personal best "Batting Streak" number.
- The Batting Streak number is the number of times a batter makes contact with the Hurricane Machine's Ball before a swing and a miss.
- Contact of any kind keeps the streak "alive". The batter is not allowed to touch the ball with the hands or the bat between swings. If the batter miss hits the ball, the ball will react in a bobbling motion. The batter must hit the ball as it bobbles. This requires great concentration. If the ball stops moving completely the drill is over. The ball must be kept moving.
- The player with the most hits in a row wins the match. This is a great drill or activity for team competitions.
- Tracking the ball at all times as it circles the machine is a must for a player to be successful.
- Note: Make sure that players allow the ball to pass at least once or twice between swings. If the batter does not allow the BatAction Powerbands to unwrap, to release tension, they will continue to wrap tighter and tighter until they stess and break. This is usually not a problem because most users of this great baseball training machine realize that the Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machine operates on a "wrapping and unwrapping" process.
Good Luck til next time, Nick.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Baseball Training Tips For the Derek Jeter Hurricane Machine
Hello,
Last night's MLB All-Star Game was incredible. I thought that game was going to last all night. It was a long game...but well worth the loss of sleep.
I just wanted to post a couple of recommended training tips for the Derek Jeter Baseball Trainer.
Last night's MLB All-Star Game was incredible. I thought that game was going to last all night. It was a long game...but well worth the loss of sleep.
I just wanted to post a couple of recommended training tips for the Derek Jeter Baseball Trainer.
- Remember the Hurricane Machine's "strike height" can be easily changed. Make sure that you change your height often to give your batter practice at hitting the ball at different levels.
- Always remove the powerbands before changing height. If you lower your machine's height, you may have to tighten the tension of your powerbands to maintain the desired speed.
- The higher the ball is, the more the hands and forearms must work. A great off-season drill is the "HIGH TEE" drill. You set the Hurricane Machine's Ball as high as possible. The batter must work hard to stay on top of the ball. It takes extra effort to get the baseball bat's barrel through the zome with the ball set at the high setting.
Good Luck til next time, Nick.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
2008 MLB All-Star Game - A special night for all baseball fans!
It was appropriate that the 2008 MLB All-Star game be played in Yankee Stadium. It made the night a truly special night for all baseball fans! Visit MLB's Official 2008 All-Star Game Webpage.
Seeing such a great collection of Major League Allstars on the field for the National Anthem will always be a memory that I will cherish.I am proud to have the priviledge to coach such a great game.
It was great to Yogi Berra, one of my all time favorites Hall of Famers. The clips of him leaping high into the arms of Don Larson in the 1956 World Series were a special touch to the telecast. For more on the 1956 World Series visit the Baseball Almanac.
I can't talk about Yogi without including three of his famous quotes that I consider to be "classic":"You can observe a lot just by watching.""I always thought that record would stand until it was broken.""Baseball is ninety percent mental. The other half is physical."For More MLB Quotes - Baseball Amanac
As I type this chill bumps are appearing all over my body. "God Bless America" is being sang to a quiet Yankee Stadium in a tribute to the greatest country on earth! God has blessed us! America's is our Home Sweet Home! Makes you proud to be an American and a baseball fan!
Amazing Facts: Yogi Berra originally sined for $500 and $90 dollars a month. Yankee Stadium cost 2.5 mil to build. Now 41 MLB players make more annually than it cost to build that stadium.
Thank you Major League Baseball for a great 2008 AllStar Game. You again proved why Baseball is Truly America's Game!
Seeing such a great collection of Major League Allstars on the field for the National Anthem will always be a memory that I will cherish.I am proud to have the priviledge to coach such a great game.
It was great to Yogi Berra, one of my all time favorites Hall of Famers. The clips of him leaping high into the arms of Don Larson in the 1956 World Series were a special touch to the telecast. For more on the 1956 World Series visit the Baseball Almanac.
I can't talk about Yogi without including three of his famous quotes that I consider to be "classic":"You can observe a lot just by watching.""I always thought that record would stand until it was broken.""Baseball is ninety percent mental. The other half is physical."For More MLB Quotes - Baseball Amanac
As I type this chill bumps are appearing all over my body. "God Bless America" is being sang to a quiet Yankee Stadium in a tribute to the greatest country on earth! God has blessed us! America's is our Home Sweet Home! Makes you proud to be an American and a baseball fan!
Amazing Facts: Yogi Berra originally sined for $500 and $90 dollars a month. Yankee Stadium cost 2.5 mil to build. Now 41 MLB players make more annually than it cost to build that stadium.
Thank you Major League Baseball for a great 2008 AllStar Game. You again proved why Baseball is Truly America's Game!
Monday, July 14, 2008
My first official post..
I am creating this blog to help Hurricane Baseball Training Machine owners maximize the benefits they get from using their machine. I will include Hurricane Machine Know-how, Training Tips, Set-up Suggestions, and Recommended Hitting Drills.
The Derek Jeter Hurricane Baseball Training Machine is one of baseball's most popular training aids. This new baseball trainer is often seen on TV and is carried in most sporting goods stores. With speed and height adjustments, the Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine can be used by players at all levels including Tball, Little League Baseball, High School Baseball, and College Baseball. The fast moving ball of the Hurricane Baseball Trainer Machine makes hitting the machine fun because it continually challenges the batter on every swing.
Thanks for visiting. Have a great day, Nick.
The Derek Jeter Hurricane Baseball Training Machine is one of baseball's most popular training aids. This new baseball trainer is often seen on TV and is carried in most sporting goods stores. With speed and height adjustments, the Hurricane Baseball Hitting Machine can be used by players at all levels including Tball, Little League Baseball, High School Baseball, and College Baseball. The fast moving ball of the Hurricane Baseball Trainer Machine makes hitting the machine fun because it continually challenges the batter on every swing.
Thanks for visiting. Have a great day, Nick.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
