Throwing Drill: A Throwing Routine For All Youth Baseball Players (Baseball)

Begin with dynamic arm movements - arm circles, cross-body swings to warm shoulder. Start throwing at very close distance (20-30 feet) with emphasis on proper grip and arm action. Focus on high elbow position and stepping toward target. Gradually back up in 10-foot increments as arms warm. At each distance, complete 5-8 quality throws before moving back. Never rush to longer distances. Include fun accuracy challenges to maintain engagement. Watch for signs of fatigue or poor mechanics and rest as needed. Maximum distance for youth should respect age - 8U might stop at 60 feet, 12U at 90-120 feet. Finish with cool-down throws at moderate distance. Emphasize that arm care and proper technique matter more than throwing hard.

• Youth players are not small adults - respect developmental stages
• Focus on mechanics first, distance and velocity much later
• Make it fun - use games and challenges to teach proper form
• Watch for fatigue signs - youth arms tire quickly
• Proper habits now prevent injuries later
• Never compare youth players to each other - individual development varies
• Praise effort and good mechanics, not just results