How to Identify if a Long or Short Arm Action is Best for you
How to Identify if a Long or Short Arm Action is Best for You
By ProSource Athletic Performance
When it comes to pitching, one of the most important elements to get right is your arm action. A long or short arm action can impact your performance and arm health. In this blog, we’ll dive into the differences between long and short arm actions, the pros and cons of each, and how to determine which style is best suited for your natural mechanics. Whether you’re a sidearm pitcher or an over-the-top thrower, understanding your arm action can help maximize your performance on the mound.
The Relationship Between Arm Action and Stride
Your arm action should always compliment your stride length. If you have a long arm action, it should be paired with a long stride, and the same goes for short arm actions. Mismatching the two can throw off your timing. For instance:
Long Arm Action + Short Stride = Late timing
Short Arm Action + Long Stride = Early timing
That said, there are exceptions, especially for sidearm pitchers, who have more time to get their arm into position due to the lower arm slot.
Catchers as an Example of Short Arm Action
Catchers are a great example of how short arm action can be effective. They develop a quick release to throw out baserunners, often bringing the ball straight to their ear before releasing. When converted to pitching, this results in a built-in short arm circle, with a bit of extra whip for power. This technique can also be effective for pitchers looking to maximize their release time without sacrificing too much velocity.
Drills to Help Identify Your Arm Action
To determine which arm action is best for you, there are a few drills you can try. Here are three of the most effective:
Weighted Ball Throws
Throwing weighted balls helps your body naturally adjust to a more efficient arm position. Start by recording yourself throwing a regular baseball, then switch to a weighted ball. Compare the two videos to see how your arm action changes. Often, using a heavier ball can help develop a more natural and fluid arm circle.Long Toss
Long toss forces your body to adjust to throwing a ball over a greater distance. This can help reveal whether you naturally fall into a long or short arm action, as your body moves to its most efficient throwing motion. Use long toss to help your arm develop the best motion and reduce tension.Feel vs. Real
Record your throws to compare what you feel you’re doing versus what’s actually happening. Often, there’s a disconnect between the two. For instance, you may think you’re making a full arm circle when, in reality, you’re cutting it short. Adjust accordingly based on the video evidence.
Arm Health: Long vs. Short Arm Action
One major factor to consider when deciding between long and short arm action is arm health. Relying too much on a short arm action, or what we call a "rip through" motion, puts additional strain on your elbow and shoulder. While it may help with velocity, it can lead to overuse injuries if not done correctly.
On the other hand, having a fluid arm circle—whether it’s long or short—can significantly reduce stress on your arm and promote longevity. Long arm circles allow your arm to gather momentum, working with your body, while short arm actions rely more on your upper body strength.
Finding What Works Best for You
Ultimately, the best way to find your ideal arm action is through experimentation. Play around with different arm slots and circles while playing catch or long tossing. Whether it’s a short, quick release or a longer, more fluid arm circle, it’s important to find what feels most natural to you.
Keep your grip loose, and make sure you’re not holding tension in your arm, as this can lead to arm pain and even injury. Remember, the goal is to keep your arm healthy and efficient over the long term.
Conclusion
Understanding your arm action can have a huge impact on your performance as a pitcher. Whether you favor a long or short arm action, the key is matching it with your stride, keeping your arm healthy, and finding what feels right for you. Use the drills mentioned here to identify the best style for your mechanics, and don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust based on your needs.
Stay tuned for more insights into pitching mechanics from ProSource Athletic Performance, and be sure to check out the video for a deeper dive into mastering your arm action. As always, leave a comment if you have any questions, and subscribe for more content to help you dominate on the mound.
