Sliding is an essential skill that all players must learn how to do safely and properly. This is the proper sliding technique that should be used to teach baseball players how to slide.
Setup
For first time learners, it may be easier to practice and learn sliding on grass. Using real bases to learn how to slide can lead to injury. A cone or another marker should be used for players that have never learned how to slide before. It may be easier to learn the proper sliding technique in socks instead of cleats or shoes. Socks will allow players to slide easier if this drill is done on turf or grass.
Drill Instructions
- First, have the players sit down and get into the position they should use for sliding.
- Players should position their legs into the shape of a number four. Usually, players will use their dominant side leg to slide but each player may slide differently.
- Once the legs are in position, players should throw their hands up in the air. Putting the hands in the air should help circumvent hand injuries and scrapes.
- Emphasize that this is the position they should use for sliding for safety and efficiency.
- Players can then line up from 10 – 12 feet away from the base marker.
- One by one they can start running before sliding using the form they learned earlier.
- Sliding can begin anywhere from 5 – 7 feet away from the base marker but each player may have their own preference.
- Once players are comfortable with sliding, and for more advanced players, sliding can be practiced on the field with real bases.
