Should physical strength be measured

[RADcatchers]

Physical strength ~ Muscle strength

Considering so many of the discussions here are based on physical productivity and performance, which includes factors like which bat to select, swing mechanic results and pitching and running speeds.

Brings these questions~
How much is muscle strength a factor?
Should muscle strength be measured to help the individual athlete assess their development on the journey?
How would you like to see muscle strength be measured?

 

[GunnerShotgun]

Not really. I would rather know their sprint time than their squat max.

 

[cnardone]

For use in comparisons against others? No, I don't think so. Kevin Durant could not bench press 175lb when he entered the NBA. He takes that to the HOF.

For use a a baseline to track their own personal progress. Yes.

 

[RADcatchers]

For use in comparisons against others? No, I don't think so. Kevin Durant could not bench press 175lb when he entered the NBA. He takes that to the HOF.

Good point about comparison to others. Think that happens. Anywhere people can be competitive with each other.

For use as a baseline to track their own personal progress. Yes.

 

[Orange Socks]

Quickness and speed seem to be more relevant.
I have seen more kids hit more bombs and lasers than the bigger stronger players.

When you see it, you just know.

Weight training builds you up for the long season and injury prevention. Yes, getting stronger and faster is key, but production is better.

 

[steve1244]

Most serious athletes at some point have to increase their relative strength (i.e., the amount of strength they have at a static bodyweight) to avoid plateaus and continue to produce and progress. If you take two identical athletes and put one on a quality S&C program, that athlete will be better that the other just about every time, because he/she will be faster, stronger and, most likely, bigger. It's mostly about relative strength, though. Sports isn't a weightlifting contest.

 

[Rolling Hard]

Hand grip strength is tested at some camps. I guess it's a barometer for overall strength.
TBS, I think weight room for softball it probably overdone or done with the wrong emphasis. Core strength, balance and agility probably more important than max dead lift.
Young players (8 to 12 y/o) that are or were involved in gymnastics, dance or marshall arts often stand out and have more natural swings. Their bodies understand how to create power. And they are generally easier to coach because they have been involved in a discipline that requires effort and listening skills.

 

[daywalkerdad]

Yes.
If you look at great players throughout history, 2 common traits, strength and hand eye coordination.