The Double Shuffle Throw teaches rhythm and proper sequencing in a throw that can be used in your normal daily throwing session OR as an infield drill. I wrote about the Double Shuffle Drill in PART 1 of this series. Check it out if you haven’t already.
During your normal throwing routine, implementing this drill will help create direction towards your target. When I say direction, I’m not talking about squaring the hips off completely. I’m talking about allowing the torso to turn back against the hips just enough so you can create resistance between the two structures!
When we use this as an infield drill, this too helps create direction towards first base after the ball has been fielded. It teaches our athletes how to effectively change the orientation of their hips earlier, so they can be more consistent with their direction and ultimately their accuracy!
What Is The Correct Infield Footwork?
The footwork for this drill starts with a Left step at an anlge, then a step behind with the Right. This step behind closes the hips and creates direction towards the target.
Then, the Left foot will step out towards the target to initiate the Right/Left Shuffle step. This shuffle step is basically your stride!
Let’s Recap. The entire breakdown is Left/Right (Right is behind)…Left/Right/Left.. Throw!
Double Shuffle Footwork Common Mistakes
The most common mistake you’ll see is an athlete crossing in front of the left leg, instead of behind for this particular play. This doesn’t create the best direction early, especially since we are talking about a ball taking you to your left, possibly up the middle.
Now, it’s not to say that an athlete can’t cross in front of the left leg after fielding the ball, because I have seen that as well, BUT, I’ve seen more overall inconsistent throws when using this type of footwork.
Try this out. Give it some thought. See what you like about it and don’t like about it. Email me with any questions!
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