Fast base running is about straight lines and quick feet. This drill teaches both at once by turning base running into a race.
Equipment needed: Four cones (marking the bases), a stopwatch, open space.
Setup: Set up a diamond at 45-foot sides using cones. You stand at home plate with a stopwatch.
How to run it:
- First kid runs from home to first base as fast as they can. Time them.
- They walk back.
- Next kid runs the same path. Compare times.
- After all kids run once, they run again and try to beat their first time.
- Do two rounds. Six to eight kids means 12-16 total runs.
What to look for: Kids who run the baseline straight will be faster than kids who curve. Point it out. Show them the difference.
Variation: For older kids (7), have them run home to home (around all bases) and time them. For younger kids (5-6), reduce the base distance to 30 feet.