The Myth of the Perfect Pitching Mechanics

If you’ve spent any time around baseball, you’ve heard it before: “You have to throw like this, guys,” or “Your mechanics are just not looking right.”

It sounds good in theory, but the reality is that there is no single, perfect way to pitch a baseball. Research in biomechanics and motor learning has shown that elite athletes all move differently—and those differences aren’t just natural, they’re necessary.

At VeloU, we understand that trying to force a one-size-fits-all mechanical model on every pitcher is a mistake. Instead, we focus on developing movement patterns that work for each individual athlete. This is especially important in remote pitching training, where personalization and adaptability are key to success.

The Science Behind “Repetition Without Repetition”

In the 1920s, Soviet scientist Nikolai Bernstein studied how skilled workers—specifically blacksmiths—repeated precise, high-force movements. He expected to find that expert blacksmiths used the exact same hammer path every time. Instead, he found the opposite.

Their bodies adjusted each time they swung the hammer, making small changes to correct for variations—but the hammer still hit the same exact spot. Bernstein called this repetition without repetition.

This same principle applies to elite pitchers. Jacob deGrom’s motion looks nothing like Aroldis Chapman's, but both are elite-caliber arms.

What this tells us is that great pitchers don’t repeat movements—they repeat outcomes. Their mechanics adjust based on fatigue, mound conditions, arm slots, and countless other factors.

How This Changes Pitching Development

If we accept that there’s no universal “perfect” delivery, our training approach has to change. Instead of forcing pitchers into a rigid mechanical model, we focus on optimizing their unique movement patterns.

Here’s how we approach it at VeloU:

✅ Identifying Energy Production & Interference: We analyze all the factors impacting an athlete’s movement, such as stature, force production, rate of force development, kinetic chain efficiency, and more.

✅ Building Adaptability: We train athletes with slight variations in drills, strength application, and volume/frequency to keep mechanics fluid and adaptable.

✅ Focusing on Key Movement Patterns: We emphasize effective delivery mechanics based on individual parameters rather than forcing athletes to mimic a “perfect” model.

✅ Using Technology: We measure progress using TrackMan, force plates, laser timers, and high-speed Edgertronic cameras to capture every detail of an athlete’s abilities.

How We Apply This to Remote Pitching Training

For remote athletes, it’s easy to worry about whether they’re getting the same quality instruction as in-person training. That’s why we’ve built our remote pitching program to account for individual variability.

🔹 Personalized Mechanical Analysis:

Every remote athlete submits videos of training, drills, and games, allowing us to create a complete movement profile beyond just throwing mechanics.

🔹 Custom Training Plans:

Our programs adapt to each athlete’s unique movement strategies. We don’t hand out generic drills—we build programs that evolve alongside the athlete.

🔹 Real-Time Adjustments:

Athletes receive weekly check-ins to modify their programming in response to progress and changing needs.

🔹 Objective Data Tracking:

We use slow-motion video, radar readings, and periodic in-house visits to ensure efficiency and velocity improvements.

What This Means for Parents & Athletes

If you’re a parent, you’ve probably heard:

• “Your kid’s arm slot is too high.”
• “They need to get into their legs more.”
• “Their stride should be longer.”

While well-intended, these comments assume there’s one correct way to move. The reality? Your athlete needs to develop a delivery that works for them.

Want to Train Smarter? Start With a 2-Week Free Trial

If you’re looking for the best remote pitching coach who personalizes training to fit your mechanics, not someone else’s, check out our VeloU Remote Training Program.

👉 Mechanical Analysis to identify key movement strategies. 👉 Customized Throwing Programs built for your unique mechanics. 👉 Weekly Check-Ins for real-time adjustments. 👉 Data-Backed Feedback to improve efficiency and velocity.

🔗 Sign up for your 2-Week Free Trial today!