Hula hoop drill
Why it's important More than just kids' play, everyday items such as balls and hoops can help you increase your range of motion. Flexibility is not only essential for a consistent swing, but helps to reduce risk of injury.
How-to Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a hula hoop or stability ball against your body with your arms and hands at chest height. Rotate your torso from right to left in a controlled tempo (top left and right). Do one set of 10 to 20 rotations.
Need a challenge? Develop power and endurance by adding resistance. Repeat the drill with a weighted strength bar hooked under your arms behind your back. If you don't have one, place a broomstick or club under your arms and hold three- or five-pound dumbbells in your hands (bottom).
Technique tricks Make sure you turn through your torso smoothly; don't just move your arms and shoulders. Focus on increasing your range of motion and maintaining only a moderate weight shift from side to side. Keep your hips within the frame of your body.
