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Potentiation Pre-Game Warm Up for Pitchers

By Tim Rodmaker, Professional Baseball Strength & Conditioning, 05/20/19, 12:00PM PDT

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Remember, the major purposes of the pre-game warm-up are to maximize the pitcher’s readiness and increase the potentiation of the muscles involve in the throwing motion, improving performance and decreasing the risk of injury.

Warming up before physical activity is conventional for many sports and baseball is not an exception to this practice. The starting pitcher is considered by many to be the most important position and player on game day. It is also the impression of many that with good pitching, the likelihood of winning the game is higher. This is why pitchers should be encouraged to prepare their bodies for the competition ahead with a thorough and effective pre-game warmup routine.

An effective warm-up should increase blood flow, raise core temperature, enhance metabolic reactions and improve range of motion. These will consequently enhance oxygen delivery to the working muscles, speed up motor unit reactions, improve the rate of force development, maximize strength and power and prevent injury 3, 4.