Absolute Hitting; Part I.
In Part I. of Absolute Hitting, we will cover what I believe to be the best way to organize training in a manner that allows for systematic assessment and scaling. When implementing The Hyper Stride, 3 approaches come into focus:
The 3D Approach- Preparing general movement skills in relevant directions and positions.
The Temporal Approach- This technique involves analysis of the swing by the order of the movements and type muscle contractions that unfold. In simple terms:
Counter Move (unique to the hitter)
Forward Stride (all hitters move forward and downward in varied amounts and time)
3. Swing Acceleration (commitment to swing)
4. Swing Deceleration (post contact or breaking even*)
5. Translation (time to sprint)
The Integrated Approach-
Experts refer to this as “contextual learning”, where a familiar element is introduced within the training solution to drive meaning for the athlete, which theoretically increases training transfer.
Some scholars and motor control experts refer to this type of practice as “contextual learning”. In this instance, hitters utilize their own bats and helmets, including those of varying dimensions.
All 3 approaches can happen before, during and after a training session, or even “competitive bout”.
In Part II., we take a deeper dive into how the 3 approaches are executed in and around common practices such as batting practice, strength training, and velocity based training.