Safety

Important safety considerations before starting

Safety Considerations for Throwing Progression

Before beginning any throwing program, it’s vital to prioritize safety to prevent injury and maximize development. Follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and effective throwing progression.

Pre-Throwing Safety Checklist

Physical Preparation

  • Proper Warmup: Complete a comprehensive dynamic warmup before throwing
  • Arm Care: Perform appropriate band or tubing exercises if prescribed
  • Hydration: Be well-hydrated before beginning the throwing progression
  • Rest: Ensure adequate rest between throwing sessions (typically 24-48 hours)

Health Assessment

  • Pain-Free: Never throw through pain - especially in the shoulder, elbow, or wrist
  • Previous Injuries: Notify coaches about any previous arm injuries
  • Fatigue: Do not continue throwing when experiencing fatigue
  • Recovery: Follow recommended recovery protocols between sessions

Equipment and Environment

  • Proper Footwear: Wear appropriate athletic shoes with good traction
  • Weather Conditions: Adjust or postpone during extreme weather conditions
  • Field Surface: Ensure safe throwing surface without hazards
  • Proper Equipment: Use appropriately sized baseballs for age/skill level

Supervision Guidelines

  • Young players should always have coach/adult supervision
  • Follow coach’s instructions on throwing limits and intensity
  • Report any discomfort immediately to the coach
  • Never rush through the progression steps

When to Stop Throwing

Immediately stop throwing and notify a coach if you experience:

  • Pain in the throwing arm (not normal muscle fatigue)
  • Unusual sensations like tingling or numbness
  • Inability to control where the ball is going
  • Significant decrease in throwing velocity

Progressive Approach

  • The throwing progression is designed to gradually build arm strength
  • Respect the time allocations for each step (60 seconds per drill)
  • Don’t skip steps or rush through the progression
  • Focus on proper mechanics over distance or velocity

Remember that proper throwing mechanics developed through a structured progression are essential for long-term arm health and baseball performance.