Bats, Balls, and Beyond

No matter how much heart and drive you have, the only way to become a great baseball player is to master the techniques. It's what sets the phenomenal player apart from the average player. And that means practice, practice, practice. But practice only helps if you're practicing good technique and avoiding habits that will harm your performance. There are many tools on the market today designed to help you do just that. Here are some of the best tools for improving your baseball swing.

1. Balance Trainer

The key to a good swing isn't the type of bat you choose or your arm strength—it's all about balance. Great balance is the unsung hero of every great athlete's physique. But how do you practice balance? Fortunately, there are solutions designed specifically for improving a baseball player's swing: the baseball balance trainer.

This simple device typically consists of a slender, raised platform on which the player stands. It's designed to help you master the muscle memory necessary to balance on the balls of your feet so that it becomes second nature. With consistent practice on a balance trainer, you'll learn to forget about overanalyzing your technique and focus on the pitch instead. That's the key to a great swing: a natural technique that's practically programmed into your DNA.

2. Swing Analyzer

If you don't have access to an experienced private baseball coach then get the next best thing: a swing analyzer. A swing analyzer is wearable technology that connects to your smartphone via an app. It will analyze your swing in real-time, providing a 3D model of your swing pattern. You'll be able to determine your averages when it comes to how fast you swing, your attack angle, your hand speed, and more. To do this, most analyzers provide sensors that attach to you and your bat. You can then create a custom training program designed to help you improve your specific weaknesses. 

3. Pitching Machine

If you're committed to baseball and want to make an investment toward yours or your child's future in the sport, there is no better swing aid than a pitching machine. If the player is just getting started, it may be all they need. If you're getting serious, a quality professional-grade pitching machine can cost several thousand dollars depending on the model. These machines will allow you to adjust just about everything: the speed, the angle, and the style of the pitch so you can customize your practice session to improve your specific weaknesses.

Learn more about these options by contacting companies like Three Piece Tee.