AgilityAgility is being able to quickly change directions without the loss of speed, balance, or body control. The nice thing about softball practice is that so many drills that work on specific skills also work on this athletic quality. A few noticeable examples are: The V-drill used to field backhand and forehand ground balls. Going after fly balls requires constant adjustments and good foot work. The karaoke step used in dynamic stretching builds quick foot work skills.
One drill that works on reactions and quickness is to have an athlete face a brick wall from about 8 feet away. The athlete assumes an athletic stance, knees flexed, weight slightly on the balls of their feet and ready for action. Toss tennis balls over their head so it bounces off the wall at different angles. The athlete needs to react to the left or right in order to catch the ball.
Jumping rope can help an athletes’ foot work and quickness. You probably would not do this at practice, but if one of your athletes wants to put in some extra work, this is an easy way to do it. Change to a one legged hop for a few jumps, then change to the other leg for a few more jumps. Do some crossed arms jumps and mix it up helps with coordination and keeps it more interesting. This can also be a great cardio work out. From Agility Return to Conditioning
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