When practicing your swing in a batting cage, it is important that the pitching machines you are using are set to the right speed. Differing speeds are needed for differing ages and skill levels. Pitching machines can continually throw high-speed pitches for as long as you’d like. They are effective tools towards getting the whole team literally up-to-speed, in record time, with batting cage practice.

Another tip for powerhouse batting cage practice is to have coaches or swing consultants watching players and prepared to give feedback. Having someone observe the hitter while using the pitching machines can be a useful way to spot holes in technique. What a player thinks they are doing, may not actually be the way they are hitting. Having an observer behind the batting cage nets, at all times, will cut down on bad habits being formed.

One of the many advantages to practicing in a facility with baseball pitching machines is that more time can be spent specifically working on the fundamentals of a player’s swing, and not fielding or chasing after foul balls. Commercial pitching machines can automate pitches, so that players can get a variety of speeds to practice on. Best of all, no one gets tired!

Practicing on pitching machines provide the opportunity to work on weaknesses, beyond just changing speed. Use your time in a batting cage wisely and take advantage of the range of pitches a player can practice with. Pitching machines can throw a wide variety of pitches, like curve balls, sliders and change-ups, consistently without needing a break.  This range of pitching gives players the experience and confidence in hitting against tough throws. Building confidence in a player’s swing is arguably one of the best testimonials for pitching machines and batting cage practice. Make sure all players in a batting cage spend at least a portion of their time practicing against varied pitches.

An extremely effective use of your time in a batting cage can be optimizing your repetition. A powerful and fundamentally-sound baseball swing is the product of muscle memory. Training to the point that your swing is fluid makes pitching machines an important tool for skill development. Since batting cages are a controlled environment, take this time to push yourself, or players, towards improvement. Practice time in batting cages with pitching machines should be spent improving upon technical skill by practicing slightly above current comfort levels. Never risk injury, however. Keep hydrated during practice, as well as safe. Take breaks when needed and always wear a helmet. Following these simple safety tips can keep hitters healthy and able to maximize their practice time in the cages.

By following these tips on effective batting practice techniques, you can get the most out of your time. Developing hitting skills is an important part of becoming a well-rounded baseball or softball player. Schedule your next batting cage practice with these strategies in mind for you or your team and start utilizing your practice time wisely, now!

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Master Pitching Machine is a world leader in design and production of commercial pitching machines. They have over 50 years experience in building quality batting practice equipment. The time tested designs and dedication to their product has resulted in Master Pitching Machine selling more commercial batting cages and arm-style pitching machines than anyone else in the world.