MMV #007: The 3 D's of a Great Loading Pattern

Read time: 2 minutes

Today I am going to teach you the 3 keys to a great loading pattern.

The load sets up the rest of the delivery.

Players that lack a good load are relying on the upper half to provide the velocity.

A great load doesn't guarantee high velocity, but it does give you an opportunity to be efficient.

Efficiency is what we are all chasing. How easy can you throw hard?

Most players don't have a great load because they don't know what it actually looks or feels like.

Let's change that today.

Starting with the first D:

1. Depth

The depth of your load will vary depending on your movement capability.

Players with more hip external rotation, tend to have deeper loads.

Determining your optimal depth is critical for creating force.

Here is a quick way to determine your optimal depth:

Perform a depth jump off a small box.

This is where you feel the most powerful before transitioning to the jump.

Shoot for this depth when you pitch.

2. Direction

 A good load means you are hinging at the hips.

Signs you aren’t hinging well:

• Knee goes over toes
• Back foot doesn’t stay grounded
• Excessively open or closed at landing

Direction is important for maximizing efficiency in the load.

 3. Duration

How long are you holding your hinge down the mound?

Too short and you are likely jumping out of your load.

Too long and you might be getting stuck on your backside and rotating your hips too late.

Signs your duration is good:

• Hips rotate into FP
• Ride the slide into FP
• Ball of foot is still in the ground at FP

Recap

The 3 D’s of a great loading pattern:

1. Depth

2. Direction

3. Duration 

If you master these 3 keys, you are well on your way to a great load.

That's all for today.

See you next week!

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