Baseball players don’t usually consider health and fitness all that much. They think about hitting the ball, throwing the ball, and fielding the ball but not usually about what’s best for their body. It’s as important for baseball players to stretch as it is for basketball or football players. Here is a list of body parts you’ll want to make sure to stretch before hitting the diamond again.
1.) Your throwing arm- uncorking a throw without proper stretching could end your season as quickly as it begins.Start with some light tossing with a partner from 20 or so feet away. Gradually work your way back to a safe long tossing distance. Pitchers do a particular job taxing their throwing arms and should prepare extra time to loosen their arms. Pitchers should be aware of the strength of their arms at any particular time of the season. Don’t push it too hard if you are a pitcher as overdoing it a few time early on could hinder your ability to pitch through the year.
2.) Legs, Quads and Hamstrings- A quad or hamstring pull is going to put you out at least a couple of weeks and the real pain of it is just how preventable the injuries are. There are a number of exercises to stretch and strengthen the quads and hamstrings. You should be sure and stretch until there is a burning sensation in th muscles indicating that they are getting loose.
3.) Stretch your back- There’s nothing like taking a big hack at the plate, catching nothing but air, and pulling a muscle in your back. This is yet another preventable injury. Proper stretching your back before getting into the batters box will help prevent muscles pulls in the lower back and the oblique area.
Consult a specialist if there is significant pain brought about by stretching, otherwise 15 to 20 minutes before a game or practice is all you should need.