Use hurdles & cones to develop leg quickness and core agility

Baseball demands a lot from the body - whether you're pitching, fielding or hitting. Following the recommendations of top instructors, we've assembled a collection of some of the best "obstacle" training aids to help get the maximum in quickness, flexibility, core strength and agility - the four keys of the total athlete/player. By using these obstacles to focus your routines, you'll warm-up and condition with plyometric intensity.

For details on the hurdles, cones and poles available for your Obstacle Training Program...

 

Balance and feedback for hitters & pitchers

Proprioception is the term used to describe the feedback that tells an athlete if his movements are in balance. Amplifying the feedback challenges the stability mechanisms and hones performance.

Balance discs (top image) and beams (middle) and oscillating bars (bottom) are all recommended to provide proprioceptor training.

 

 

Ball-shaped, flexible alternative to dumbbells

Soft Hand Weights intensify the effectiveness of many exercises, making each movement more meaningful. These 4-1/2" softball-sized weights can be used as a functional conditioning tool for strength, fitness, balance and stabilization and are appropriate for plyometrics, Pilates, yoga, aerobics, and rehab. The outer coating is soft and pliable which provides a more secure and comfortable grip plus added protection to toes, feet, and floors if dropped.

 

Core workout balls for pitchers and hitters

The TAP™ Double Handle Medicine Ball provides a firm reliable grip making it more functional than a standard medicine ball for many range-of-motion exercises. A perfect choice for performing rotational and cross-body exercises. The two handle design and tough construction augments explosive sport specific movement and drills. Available in 3 weights.

 

For core conditioning and shoulder programs

TAP Medicine Balls are versatile tools for complete body workouts, providing weight resistance through the full range of motion, enhancing coordination and flexibility. These durable air-filled hollow balls will bounce and may be thrown against walls. Available in 6 color coded weights ranging from 2 to 12 pounds.

 

For one-hand resistance strength exercises

Resilient and small, TAP™ Mini-Medicine Balls are sand-filled with a durable vinyl shell. Pliable and easy to handle, they're ideal for exercises or environments where minimal bounce back is desired. A great "close quarters" tool to develop arm strength, increase arm speed and promote arm health. The small size allows them to be grasped with one hand making them excellent for rebounding. Available in 3 weights and sizes.

 

Higher intensity pitcher training

Serious weighted ball training - the set recommend by programs like Ron Wolforth's for underload/overload pitcher training. 

Resilient and small, the TAP™ Weighted Balls are sand filled and can be used in close quarters as a tool to develop arm strength, increase arm speed and promote arm health. Weights range from under 4 oz to 2 pounds. All balls are the approximate size of baseballs with the exception of the 2 pound ball which is slightly smaller than a softball. (Note: the <4 ounce sponge rubber underload ball has high rebound.) Click image for details, safety instructions.

 

Add intensity to your training program

Performing a high energy drill or even just walking or jogging, wearing the TAP™ Weighted Exercise Vest adds intensity to any workout. Designed for flexibility and comfort, the vest allows unrestricted movement while ramping up the performance demands.

It's adjustable to every body size, and the 20 pounds of added weight are evenly distributed powdered metal - no bulky bars to flop around. Click here for exercise suggestions and age/size recommendations.