Youth Inc. Recommends: How To Approach Gaining Velocity

In today’s game, throwing hard isn’t just a bonus—it’s a ticket to being noticed. But adding velocity isn’t about max effort on every throw. It’s a long game that takes time, smart programming, and understanding where power really comes from. 

Building velo the right way means more than just grabbing a weighted ball and hoping for the best. To help athletes, parents, and coaches navigate the process, the Youth Inc. staff pulled together some of the most helpful insights online—from deep dives by MLB performance trainers, to biomechanics breakdowns, to first-hand advice from guys who’ve been there.

Here are six great resources to help you understand where velocity comes from and how to increase it in a safe way. 

Trying to Throw Harder? Don’t Make These Mistakes 

What it is: This video from Tread Athletics breaks down the key factors that contribute to throwing velocity—dispelling common myths and focusing on how velocity is actually built through strength, mechanics, intent, and timing. 

Why we like it: It’s a no-fluff, highly detailed look at what really moves the needle. This video emphasizes foundational movement patterns and smart training progressions, which perfect for players serious about gaining velocity the right way. 

Pitchers Elbow Strengthening Exercises 

What it is: This YouTube Short highlights a quick series of elbow-strengthening exercises designed specifically for pitchers looking to build durability and reduce injury risk. Each movement targets the stabilizing muscles critical for throwing health. 

Why we like it: It’s short, simple, and actionable. The video gives players a clear starting point for arm care. It’s perfect for adding into a warm-up or recovery routine without overcomplicating things. 

Four Keys For Pitchers to Maintain Longevity 

 What it is: This Instagram reel from Tread Athletics showcases a lower-body-focused drill designed to help pitchers generate more velocity by improving force production and movement efficiency. It’s a quick breakdown of how to connect your legs to your delivery. 

Why we like it: It’s fast, focused, and immediately useful. The drill how small adjustments in lower-body mechanics can make a big difference on the mound. 

How Mobility Can Help You Throw Harder 

What it is: This video from Tread Athletics breaks down the key components that drive pitching velocity, including strength, mobility, mechanics and sequencing. It’s a high-level overview of how pitchers can build velocity through structured, individualized training 

Why we like it: It’s clear, credible, and rooted in real sports science. This cuts through the noise with practical advice that prioritizes long-term development over quick fixes, which is ideal for pitchers looking to boost velocity while staying healthy. 

Where Does Velocity Come From 

What it is: This article delves into the biomechanics of pitching, emphasizing that up to 80% of a pitcher's velocity originates from hip and shoulder separation (angular torque), with the remaining 20% stemming from linear torque achieved through proper "stack & track" mechanics. 

Why we like it: The piece offers a comprehensive breakdown of the factors contributing to pitching velocity, highlighting the significance of mechanical efficiency and functional strength. By focusing on the foundational elements of torque generation and energy transfer, it provides pitchers with actionable insights to enhance performance sustainably.

MLB Study Finds Young Pitchers are Throwing Harder Than Ever 

What it is: This Baseball America article highlights an MLB-led study revealing that youth pitchers are throwing harder and more frequently than ever before. It explores how early emphasis on velocity is shaping player development and contributing to growing concerns about long-term arm health.  

Why we like it: It’s data-driven and straight to the point. The article raises important questions about the price of early velocity, giving readers a clear view of how the game is evolving, and why smart, balanced training is more important than ever.