Preparation

• 1
  The grip
  
  (These instructions are for right-handed hitters. If you're left-handed, switch "left" and "right.")
  Pick up the bat at the narrow end and wrap the fingers of both hands around it with your left hand closest to the end. Your hands should be barely touching.
  
  
• 2). Lay the heavy end of the bat on your shoulder and line up the second knuckles of both hands.
  
  
• 3). Stand at home plate with your left shoulder pointing to the pitcher and your right shoulder aimed back at the catcher. Slide your feet shoulder-width apart, slightly bend your knees, then bend slightly forward from the waist.
  
  
• 4). Hold the bat straight up in front of your right shoulder. Slightly lift your elbows, but keep them lower than your hands. (See main picture.)
  
  

Hitting

• 1). When the pitcher begins to pitch, shift your weight slightly to your right (back) foot. Push the bat straight back, toward the catcher, by straightening your left arm. This provides tension that will be released when you begin to swing forward.
  
  
• 2). Keep your eyes on the ball coming toward the plate. Move your weight forward as you begin to swing the bat in an arc, using your straight left arm as the radius of the arc. Many players take a small step toward the ball at this point to help shift their weight and add power to their swing.
  
  
• 3). Watch the ball's flight and use your left arm to guide the bat toward the ball.
  
  
• 4). As the bat moves over the plate, roll your right hand on top with a twisting motion of your arm, causing the end of the bat to swing through at a faster pace. For the hardest, longest hit, practice making this movement just as the bat makes contact with the ball.
  
  
• 5). After the bat makes contact with the ball, follow through with your swing, turning your body along with your arms. Your right arm should wind up under your chin, with the bat all the way to your left.