Master Baseball Hitting: The PVC Posture & Turn Drill for Perfect Swings
Is your young baseball player struggling with their hitting posture or turn? Many young hitters develop habits that hinder their swing, like standing too upright or not properly rotating their hips. But there’s a fantastic drill that can help correct these issues and build a fundamentally sound swing: the PVC Posture and Turn Drill!
This simple yet highly effective drill uses a PVC pipe and a T-connector to provide immediate feedback on posture and turn mechanics. It’s perfect for players who are just starting out or those needing to refine their swing fundamentals.
Setting Up the PVC Posture and Turn Drill
You’ll only need a few simple items:
- PVC Pipe: A 5-foot length of PVC pipe works great.
- PVC T-Connector: This will hold the PVC upright and provide a target.
Drill Setup:
- Place the T-connector on the ground, ensuring it’s stable.
- Insert one end of the PVC pipe into the top of the T-connector, creating a vertical post.
- Position the T-connector so it is even with the hitter’s back hip. Important Tip: Keep the T as low as possible. This encourages hitters to stay behind the ball and turn correctly from their backside. Placing it too far forward can lead to lunging.
Performing the Drill
- Starting Position: Have the hitter stand in their normal batting stance.
- PVC Placement: Place the PVC pipe across the hitter’s chest and have them hold it lightly with their elbows, keeping their elbows raised to about shoulder level. This setup encourages proper posture.
- Swing Execution:
- Load: Instruct the hitter to begin their load phase as they normally would.
- Launch: Transition into the launch position.
- Swing: Have the hitter swing, focusing on turning their back hip towards the PVC pipe and staying balanced behind their front leg.
Key Focus Points for Success:
- Posture Check: Ensure the hitter maintains good posture throughout the swing. If the T is too high, the hitter may stand too upright, negating the posture benefit of the drill.
- Rotation Control: As the hitter loads, watch the front side of the PVC pipe (closest to the pitcher). It should not move behind the ball. If it does, the hitter is likely over-rotating and pulling their eyes off the pitcher.
- Avoid Lunging: The T position at the back hip discourages lunging. If the hitter is lunging to reach the PVC, adjust the T position slightly closer to the hitter.
Benefits of the PVC Posture and Turn Drill
- Improved Posture: The PVC pipe held at elbow level promotes an athletic and balanced posture, preventing hitters from standing too tall or slouching.
- Enhanced Turn Mechanics: This drill helps hitters engage their back hip and learn to rotate effectively, leading to more powerful and consistent swings.
- Reduced Lunging: By positioning the T at the back hip, the drill encourages hitters to stay back and drive the ball, rather than lunging forward.
- Better Balance: Staying behind the front leg as instructed in the drill promotes better balance and control throughout the swing.
Ready to transform your hitter’s swing? Try the PVC Posture and Turn drill at your next practice! Let me know how it works for you in the comments below, and share any questions you have! What other drills do you find helpful for improving hitting posture and turn? We’d love to hear your experiences and tips!
