Now is the time to think about ‘timing’

One of the most important tenets in the Diamond Directors’ teaching philosophy is timing. As we have emphasized, there are seven parts of the swing. And, it takes 3,000 reps to build a habit. That’s 21,000 reps. Those parts include:

1. Stance/Load
2. Timing
3. Tempo
4. Tracking
5. Approach
6. Contact
7. Extension/Finish

In your quest to master the arts of timing and habit, there are three hitting skills that will launch you to elite status:

1. Timing
2. Tempo
3. Tracking

Talent is what you do well, while habits are what you do well repeatedly without thought. Skills are what you do well repeatedly without thought while under stress.

Timing
When it comes to timing, it is all about getting loaded. Fastballs off pitchers can be categorized at above average speed, average and below average. Being in a good loaded position, on time, allows you to be on tempo and track pitches.

Think about the planning required to get to the field on time to stretch and take batting practice before the game. If you arrive too late it may cause you to feel rushed and stressed, and ultimately have an effect on your game performance.

Read more about timing here.

Tempo
Tempo is how you get loaded. Pitchers change speeds to prevent hitters from driving the ball. Hard hit balls can still be fielded by good infielders, while balls that are driven give pitchers nightmares.

So, if you’re on tempo, it doesn’t matter if the pitch is a fastball, breaking ball or change-up. Your body will be ready to track the pitch.

Read more about tempo here.

Tracking
Tracking is determining the speed, spin and location of pitches. It is a skill, while “seeing the ball” is simply a function of looking at the ball. Fans see the ball. Skilled hitters track pitches.

As a result of being on time, on tempo and tracking pitches, skilled hitters are able to trust their approach to the ball for good contact and extension.

Read more about tracking here.

To help keep your skills sharp, we have introduced a new type of Skill Build—our Virtual Skill Build, where I can help you develop hitting skills anytime, anywhere using anything. Check it out.

Remember: Intelligence tops being smart.

For more information, visit www.diamonddirectors.com today. Also, check out our Digital Magazine.

C.J. Stewart has built a reputation as one of the leading professional hitting instructors in the country. He is a former professional baseball player in the Chicago Cubs organization and has also served as an associate scout for the Cincinnati Reds. As founder and CEO of Diamond Directors Player Development, C.J. has more than 22 years of player development experience and has built an impressive list of clients, including some of the top young prospects in baseball today. If your desire is to change your game for the better, C.J. Stewart has a proven system of development and a track record of success that can work for you.