WebBall is pleased to present this new series by one of the best in the business when it comes to the care and conditioning of throwing arms. We encourage you to look for other content by Alan on the site and to order his crucial Thrive on Throwing DVD.

by Alan Jaeger, Jaeger Sports

For many years I’ve been asked a number of questions about 'when' and 'how' pitchers should train in the off-season to best prepare for their upcoming season.

Because there are so many variables in each case, it’s not usually a short answer. That’s because each pitcher has their own unique history. 

However, what variables do seem to apply to nearly all pitchers are...

• The amount of rest a pitcher needs to take after a long season
• Their approach toward their off season throwing program and
• The integration of their off season throwing program into their season.

Knowing when to shut down after a demanding period of time and how to best prepare the arm in the off-season is the key to maximizing a pitchers health, strength, endurance and recovery period in season.  Without well timed rest and a clear intention of how to best prepare the arm in the off-season, pitchers may wonder why they are lacking endurance or velocity in season, or even worse, why they may be breaking down.