Stance and speed among softball players: Basis for training design development

Abstract

Base running is a critical aspect of softball that can significantly impact a player's success on the field. Mastering effective base running techniques is essential, as it directly influences a player's chances of winning. Understanding the relationship between base running stances and speed is crucial for improving performance. This study aims to determine the appropriate base running stance for softball players to enhance their performance. The general objective of this study is to identify the optimal base running stance for softball players. Specifically, it seeks to determine the running stances commonly used by players, assess the correlation between different stances (front foot, back foot, and crossover) and speed, and develop a training program based on the findings. A quantitative research design, specifically a descriptive research approach, was employed for this study. Data was collected from softball players regarding their base running stances and corresponding speeds. The stances used by the players were analyzed to determine their impact on running speed. The findings revealed that the most commonly used stance among the softball players was the front foot stance, followed by the crossover stance, with the back foot stance being the least used. It was found that all three stances (front foot, back foot, and crossover) are applicable and effective for players during a game. However, one participant, identified as Participant 8, was found to have an average time exceeding 2.99 seconds while using the crossover stance, suggesting that this stance may not be suitable for her. The study concludes that the front foot stance is the most favored among players, while the crossover and back foot stances can also be effective depending on the player’s speed. These findings provide valuable insights for designing a training program tailored to improving base running techniques, ultimately enhancing the performance of softball players on the field.