HOW MUCH SHOULD I REALLY BE PRACTICING?
One of the biggest misconceptions in softball/baseball:
More is NOT always better.
But if you want to become an elite player, you DO need consistent reps outside of team practice.
Here’s a realistic training guide:
AGES 6–9
Goal: Fall in love with the game
1–3 days/week
20–45 minutes
Focus on:
• Fun
• Basic mechanics
• Hand-eye coordination
• Confidence
At this age, they do NOT need constant lessons and training.
AGES 10–12
Goal: Build athletic habits & body control
3–4 days/week
45–60 minutes
Focus on:
• Throwing mechanics
• Swing consistency
• Defensive footwork
• Beginning strength/speed work
Consistency matters more than intensity.
AGES 13–15
Goal: Separate yourself
4–5 days/week outside of scheduled practices
60–90 minutes
This is where serious players start separating from average players.
Training should include:
• Skill work
• Strength/speed
• Arm care
• Mental approach
• Recovery
You do NOT have to train 4 hours a day.
But you DO need intentional work consistently.
AGES 16–18
Goal: Prepare for college-level expectations
5–6 days/week
1.5–3 hours depending on season
At this level:
• Your competition IS training outside practice
• Strength and recovery matter
• Quality reps matter
• Your habits become your ceiling
College athletes train even when they don’t feel like it.
IMPORTANT:
Team practice alone is usually NOT enough to develop elite skills.
Why?
Because team practice includes:
• Standing around
• Team concepts
• Limited individual reps
• Limited personalized feedback
The players who improve fastest usually do consistent extra work outside of practice.
Not always the most.
Just the most consistent.
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HOW MUCH SHOULD I REALLY BE PRACTICING?
skool.com/alphapd-trainingacademy
Baseball and Softball Training and Development
Former Pro's Noah Vaughan and Riley Sartain-Vaughan
Hitting
Defense
Mental Game
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