What is Long Toss?
Long toss is a throwing technique used by Major League Baseball (MLB) players to increase arm strength and arm speed. It is a form of throwing that involves throwing a baseball from an increased distance in order to build the arm up while also giving the pitcher time to work on a variety of pitches. Long toss is a crucial part of any MLB player’s arm program and is used to improve arm health and overall performance.
Why is Long Toss Used?
Long toss is used by MLB players to increase arm strength and arm speed. This is accomplished by throwing the ball from an increased distance, allowing for more force to be generated and for the arm muscles to get used to the strain of throwing from further away. Long toss also gives players the opportunity to work on their different pitches since they are throwing from a farther distance. This allows them to work on the accuracy and speed of their pitches and to perfect their technique.
How Far Do MLB Players Long Toss?
The distance of long toss for MLB players varies from player to player and from team to team. Generally speaking, most MLB players will long toss from a distance of 180-200 feet. This allows them to generate enough force to have a positive effect on their arm while also giving them time to work on their different pitches.
How Long Should Long Toss Sessions Last?
Long toss sessions can last anywhere from 15-30 minutes and should be done at least once a week. It is important to not overwork your arm, so it is important to only do long toss sessions for a short amount of time. During these sessions, the pitcher should focus on throwing with proper technique and accuracy while also working on their various pitches.
What Are the Benefits of Long Toss?
- Increases Arm Strength: Long toss increases arm strength by allowing the pitcher to generate more force when throwing the ball from further away. This can help to improve overall performance and reduce the likelihood of arm injuries.
- Improves Pitching Accuracy: Long toss allows the pitcher to work on the accuracy of their different pitches. This can help to improve their overall performance and give them an edge against opposing batters.
- Increases Arm Speed: Long toss helps to increase arm speed as the pitcher is able to throw the ball from a farther distance. This can help to improve overall performance and give the pitcher an edge in games.
What Are the Risks of Long Toss?
Long toss does come with some risks that should be taken into consideration.
- Overworking the Arm: Long toss can put a lot of strain on the arm and can lead to overworking it if done too often or for too long. It is important to only do long toss sessions for a short amount of time and to not do them too often.
- Injury Risk: Long toss can also increase the risk of arm injuries as the pitcher is throwing the ball from a farther distance. It is important to ensure that proper technique is used in order to reduce the risk of injury.
How Can MLB Players Improve Long Toss?
There are a few things that MLB players can do to improve their long toss sessions.
- Focus on Proper Technique: It is important for pitchers to focus on using proper technique when long tossing. This will help to ensure that they are generating the most power possible while also reducing the risk of injury.
- Increase the Distance Gradually: It is important for pitchers to increase the distance of their long toss gradually. This will help to avoid overworking the arm and will give the pitcher time to adjust to the new throwing distance.
- Focus on Accuracy: Long toss is also a great way for pitchers to work on their accuracy. It is important to focus on accuracy when long tossing in order to get the most out of the sessions.
Conclusion
Long toss is an important part of any MLB player’s arm program and is used to increase arm strength and arm speed while also giving the pitcher time to work on a variety of pitches. Most MLB players will long toss from a distance of 180-200 feet and the sessions should generally last between 15-30 minutes. Long toss does come with some risks, such as overworking the arm and increasing the risk of injury, so it is important to use proper technique and to increase the distance gradually. MLB players can also use long toss to work on their accuracy, which can help to improve their overall performance.