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Throwing · Drill 01

Elbow Up Freeze

5–7 min station
Teaches

A strong throwing arm position. A low elbow at this age usually means weak throws and awkward arm action — this drill fixes that before the ball is released.

Bring ● Softball ● Partners
Setup
  • Players stand about 15–20 feet from the helper.
  • No glove needed for the first few reps.
  • Start without a ball if needed, then add it once the motion looks cleaner.
How it works
  1. The player goes through the throwing motion slowly.
  2. Right before release, she freezes in place.
  3. The helper checks the throwing arm position.
  4. Elbow should be about shoulder height — or a little higher.
  5. Do 5 slow-motion reps, then 5 at full speed.
Watch for
  • Elbow is up, not hanging low.
  • Throwing hand is behind or above the ball, not under it.
  • She stays balanced instead of leaning back.
What to say
Freeze right there.
Elbow up — that’s your power spot.
Show me your strong throwing position.
Yes — now throw from there!
High-five moments
  • Her elbow looks sharp in the freeze.
  • She self-corrects without being told.
  • A throw that feels easy to her — that’s the position doing the work.
Make it easier

Forget about throwing hard. Slow the motion way down and help her feel the right spot. Hold the freeze together if she needs it.

Level it up

Freeze, hold for 2 seconds, then finish the throw. Or have her close her eyes in the freeze and check that it still feels right.

Key cue
“Elbow up — like you’re showing off your muscles.”