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Book 28, Question 11 · Video

How can a pitcher throw over 100 miles per hour?

Video · 1:47 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 28

A fast pitch uses the whole body like a whip. The pitcher pushes off the ground with the legs, twists the hips, turns the shoulders, and swings the arm, passing energy from one body part to the next. At the end, the wrist snaps and the ball is released. The legs and hips provide most of the power, not just the arm. Pitch counts protect young arms from getting tired.

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How can a pitcher throw over 100 miles per hour?

The Big Idea

Some pitchers throw over 100 miles per hour! How do they do it? They use their whole body!

Like a Whip

Step one: Like a Whip. A fast pitch uses the whole body like a whip. The pitcher pushes off with the legs, twists the hips, turns the shoulders, and swings the arm, passing energy along.

The Snap

Step two: The Snap. At the end, the wrist snaps and the ball is released. All that energy goes into the ball.

Legs and Hips

Step three: Legs and Hips. The legs and hips provide most of the power, not just the arm. Pitch counts protect young arms from getting tired.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Push off. Twist. Turn. Snap.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Young pitchers should rest their arms between games. Legs give power. Energy passes along. Wrist snaps last.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! In a clear space with a grown-up watching, throw a ball using just your arm. Then throw using your legs and hips too. Compare the speed. Which felt more powerful? Rest your arm after!

Outro

Fast pitchers use their whole body like a whip, passing energy from legs to hips to shoulders to arm, ending with a wrist snap. The legs and hips give most of the power. Young arms need rest between games. Science is amazing! What will you discover next? Every question is a new adventure, so keep wondering and keep exploring with me! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

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