Arm Circle
Also known as: circle, windmill circle
The arm circle is the full 360° rotation of the pitching arm around the shoulder joint that defines the fast-pitch windmill delivery and stores elastic energy for release.
The arm circle is what distinguishes fast-pitch pitching from all other throwing motions. The arm swings back and over the shoulder, loops behind the back, and comes down and forward past the hip where the wrist snaps at release. A fluid, consistent arm circle is the foundation of every pitch — the mechanics around it (push-off, hip rotation, wrist snap) all connect to it. Common flaws include a breaking or incomplete circle, which disrupts timing and reduces velocity.
Example
A coach uses video to check that the pitcher's arm circle is smooth and reaches full extension at the top before coming down to release.
Related terms
- WindmillThe windmill is the underhand fast-pitch delivery in which the arm makes a full circle before release, generating the velocity that defines the game.
- Push-Off – PitchingThe push-off is the initial drive of the pivot foot against the pitching rubber, converting leg power into forward body momentum at the start of the windmill delivery.
- Wrist Snap – PitchingThe wrist snap is the final acceleration of the wrist and fingers at the moment of release in the windmill delivery — the primary source of both pitch velocity and spin.
Related guides & benchmarks
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