Windup Phase | Henken [Baseball Pitching Lab Japan]

The windup phase is the starting point of the pitching motion.
The term “windup” typically refers to the motion of stepping back, raising the arms, and bringing them up over the head.
However, even in a no-windup delivery, the step-back movement is still considered part of the windup phase.

When pitching from the set position, this phase is omitted, and the motion begins with movements such as the takeback or stride down.

Simply making the ball curve is easy; most people can do it by twisting their wrist or arm.
However, throwing a curveball that is effective in a game—while also avoiding excessive strain on the elbow—is significantly more difficult.

There are countless variations in grips and movement, making the curveball both a fundamental and profoundly deep pitch.

Windup vs. No-Windup

Whether to use a windup or a no-windup delivery depends on the pitcher’s preference.
There are various reasons for choosing one over the other, such as reducing unnecessary tension or improving balance.
Some pitchers may also switch between them as part of adjustments when they are not performing well.

As for the differences, advantages, or disadvantages between the windup and no-windup, the movement itself is not fundamentally different.
What matters most is whether the pitcher can smoothly transition into the leg lift and takeback phases that follow.

For example, using a windup may make it harder to maintain balance during the leg lift, while a no-windup delivery may introduce unnecessary tension during the takeback.
Because of this, it is worth experimenting with both styles.

There are also several variations of the no-windup setup, such as keeping the hands low, holding them high in front of the face, or positioning them in front of the chest.