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Youth Pitching Mechanics Cheat Sheet The 4 Patterns That Quietly Steal Velocity (and How to Spot Them Fast) Most youth pitchers don’t need more throwing — they need better movement. These four simple checkpoints will help you quickly spot the biggest mechanical issues that affect velocity, command, and consistency.1. Elbow Angle at Foot Strike Ideal Range: 85–120°When the stride foot lands, the throwing arm should already be in a strong position. Research in Sports Health notes:“At the instant of lead foot contact, the elbow should be flexed approximately 90°…” &nbsp;(Diffendaffer et al., 2019, Sports Health)Why it matters:Late arm = arm drag Early arm = timing issues Clean arm position = more consistent release &nbsp; 2. Lead Leg Knee Flexion at Release Ideal Range: 40–80°The front leg acts as the “brake” that transfers energy up the chain. The same Sports Health review reports:“Lead knee flexion is typically around 45° at foot contact and approximately 30° at ball release.” &nbsp;(Diffendaffer et al., 2019)Why it matters:Collapsing knee = lost power Locked knee = lost stability Strong front side = better velocity and balance &nbsp; 3. Trunk Rotation Timing Ideal Range: 0.20–0.60 secondsThis is all about sequencing — hips first, trunk second. Biomechanics research emphasizes:“The pelvis should begin rotating before the upper trunk…” &nbsp;(Diffendaffer et al., 2019)Why it matters:Early trunk rotation = arm drag Late rotation = pushing the ball Good timing = smoother, more efficient throwing &nbsp; 4. Stride Foot Contact Timing Ideal Range: 0.28–0.70 secondsFoot plant is the anchor point of the entire delivery. According to the same review:“At lead foot contact, the pelvis should be slightly open while the upper torso remains aligned with the target.” &nbsp;(Diffendaffer et al., 2019)Why it matters:Early foot plant = cuts off momentum Late foot plant = over‑striding Proper timing = better sequencing and balanceInterested in how to apply these concepts? Check out how our motion capture system addresses these deficiences and book a call with us today to see how this can elevate your staff's performance this season! &nbsp;Source&nbsp; Diffendaffer AZ, Fleisig GS, Ivey B, Aune KT. The Clinician’s Guide to Baseball Pitching Biomechanics. Sports Health. 2019.