Slow is smooth, smooth is fast

I’ve often told players that if they cannot perform a task (fielding, hitting, pitching, etc.) in slow motion then they will never be able to do it in regular speed.  Because of this, I’m a firm believer in players practicing (on their own) their mechanics in slow motion.  When they are performed in slow motion,

the player develops muscle memory and the smoothness of one step in the process leading into the next.  All steps are covered correctly and in sinc. 

Most people want to learn things quickly which is why slow motion training doesn’t tend to go over too well.  The problem with that, however, is when learning a new skill the novice ends up skipping steps because they are too focused on the time it takes to do it instead of doing it correctly.  They incorrectly think that training in slow motion will make them slow in a game.

Often the opposite is true.

As stated earlier, when you train slowly you teach your body the proper steps and their sequence.  When competition amps up, our bodies will naturally move faster because of the adrenaline that is pumping through our system.  Therefore, the steps you mastered in slow motion will get repeated even though your body is moving faster. 

Train at too quick a speed and your steps, sequence, balance, and rythym will get screwed up.  Messing those things up causes more bobbles, falls, etc. which just adds to the time it will take you to do something.

That’s why … “Slow is smooth, smooth is fast.”

Tomorrow’s post:  What does pitchability mean?