Evaluating the “Elbow Up” Cue in Throwing Mechanics

The “Elbow Up” cue has been around for a long time and is certainly heard during many games and practices, but what does this actually mean? I feel like coaches, parents and players are using this term excessively and incorrectly, just for the sake of saying something when a throw is off target.

“Elbow Up” Cue – Common Thought Process & Incorrect Pattern

Players misinterpret this specific coaching cue in such a way that they will initiate the arm pattern by leading with the elbow or hand/ball and elevating the distal humerus above the shoulder as shown below.

When the above happens (distal humerus rises above the shoulder) the latissimus musculature does not become activated, the supraspinatus may become compressed against the acromion process causing inflammation and irritation, and the labrum and ucl may be compromised due to high amounts of torque and forward movement of the humeral head, not to mention the entire sequence becomes affected.

When that distal humerus elevates above the shoulder as the lead foot touches the ground, it causes increased levels of torque at the UCL (ulnar collateral ligament) and shifts the humeral head forward from the center of the glenoid cavity (shoulder joint). This can then damage the labrum due to excess movement and instability in the shoulder capsule.

The “Elbow Up” Cue – What it Really Means

What coaches are trying to say when they yell get the elbow up during games and practices is that the elbow must lead the throw after lead foot plant has occurred and as the arm is moving into max external rotation as shown below.

This means that the distal humerus will stay below the shoulder or in line with the shoulder as lead foot plan occurs. Then, as the arm is moving through shoulder external rotation, the elbow will lead the throw, extending and pronating at ball release as shown below.

This stays true with any position player or pitcher. It doesn’t matter if the elbow is extended (longer arm pattern such as pitcher or outfielder) or if the elbow is flexed (shorter arm pattern such as infielder or catcher), the distal humerus will still stay below the shoulder.