11U–12U
Throwing
All positions
Intermediate
Youth Long-Toss Ladder for Controlled Velocity
Radar-guided progressive long-toss ladder that builds arm endurance and velocity by working up in 1-mph increments rather than immediate max effort.
- Equipment:
- Ball only
- Duration:
- About 15 min
- Setting:
- Outdoor
- Players:
- Partner
Coaching notes
After a full warm-up, the athlete throws three throws at a starting velocity 10 mph below target, then increases 1 mph every three throws until reaching the daily goal (typically 90 % of max). Keeps intent high while protecting the arm.
Objectives
Build arm strength and endurance safely; teach athletes to throw with measured intent; improve velocity without over-taxing the arm on every throw.
Coaching cues
Start light; increase only after successful sets; maintain arc and mechanics; finish at 90 % of max; stop if form breaks down.
Common errors
Jumping to max too soon; altering mechanics to chase velocity; ignoring the radar feedback.
Steps
- 1. Complete thorough warm-up and mechanical drills
- 2. Set daily goal (max velocity minus 10 mph)
- 3. Three throws at starting velocity, then +1 mph every three throws
- 4. Finish with 20 throws at the daily goal velocity
Source:
ProSource Athletic Performance
