Baseball & Softball Combine/Camp

Combine Testing for Baseball & Softball / Fastpitch

Component example tests comments

Aerobic Fitness
  • The aerobic test performed may depend on the starting fitness level of the players. A submaximal test of aerobic fitness may be suitable, such as a cycle test (Astrand test, Trilevel, PWC170), or the Cooper 12 minute run. For players used to some conditioning exercise, the maximum effort shuttle run (beep) testwould be more appropriate.
  • You can find information on many aerobic tests fromhere.
 This is an important component of fitness for baseball, so that players can reduce the effect of fatigue during long periods of play. Fitter players will cope with the heat stress of playing all day in the sun.

Flexibility
  • The sit and reach test can be done for lower back and hamstring flexibility. Other flexibility tests should also be performed that are relevant for specific playing positions.
 The flexibility tests should be specific to the actions of baseball. Being flexible enables greater range of movement in the execution of striking or throwing the ball, and may reduce injury in the long term.

Strength and Power
  • Maximal strength tests for specific exercises should be conducted.
  • Abdominal muscle function should also be tested, for example using an abdominal strength or endurancetest.
  • A handgrip strength test is also suitable.
 Strength (and power tests) should also be done to determine initial levels and to monitor strength changes in conjunction with training programs. Upper body strength is particularly important.Core stability and abdominal function is important in the controlling of movement and execution of skills.

Speed and agility
  • Sprint time over 30 yards or 60 yards, with a split time for the first 10 yards is appropriate.
  • You may also want to do a baseball specific test, sprinting over the actual distance between home and first base, and also possibly incorporating a turn.
 Running speed, acceleration, and agility are very important in baseball for moving between the bases and in fielding. The 60 yard dash is also commonly used for testing baseball players

Body Fat
  • Skinfold measures should be performed to determine body fat levels.
 Excess body fat would affect the baseballer’s ability to move freely around the field, and it would also increase fatigue during training and game play as the excess weight does not benefit the sport.
  • The following tests make up the assessments in the Baseball and Fastpitch
    • 30 Yard Dash — a straight line sprint test that measures acceleration, and is a reliable indicator of speed, agility and quickness. (Fastpitch uses 20 yards)
    • Vertical Jump — jumping for maximum height, this test measures explosiveness, and is a reliable indicator of speed. The preferred method is using a digital jump mat though other methods can be used if required.
    • Rotational Power Ball Throw — The test involves throwing a Power Ball across the chest for maximum distance. It measures core strength and total body power and simulates the rotational core movement common to baseball.
    • 20 Yard Shuttle — A lateral movement test that measures the agility of the athlete, especially body control and change of direction.

 

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