Abstract

Introduction/Aim of the Study: Our case report details the effects of workouts done on a novel low-friction inertial exercise trainer (IET; Impulse Training Systems, Newnan GA) over a 140-day period by a young baseball player to improve his pitch velocity. Methods: Workouts entailed 32 exercises each performed by the right, and then followed by the left, sides of the body against 3.4 kg of added mass to the IET three times per week. Approximately every two weeks the subject’s performance was measured with two tests. One test assessed pitch velocity with a standard 142 g baseball and calibrated radar gun, while the second measured internal rotation force on the IET with no added mass to the device. Results: After 140 days, test results showed large maximum internal rotation force (+338%) and pitch velocity (+28%) improvements. Conclusions: The success of IET workouts likely resulted from high rates of acceleration per repetition and a greater overspeed adaptation than that seen from other training modalities. The IET also imposes a low frictional resistance that limit stresses placed on the maturing skeleton and connective tissues, which may be especially efficacious for a young baseball pitcher’s throwing shoulder. Based upon our results, new research on the effects of the IET to improve baseball pitch velocity is warranted. Verf.-Referat