When it comes to dominating on the mound, few attributes are as admired—and as pursued—as pitching velocity.From high school prospects to professional pitchers, the desire to throw harder has become a driving force in modern baseball. While velocity isn’t the only measure of success, there’s no denying its role in intimidating batters, increasing strikeouts, and … Read more
Every pitcher dreams of throwing faster, but increasing velocity isn’t just about arm strength. A powerful pitch comes from full-body coordination, explosive movements, and strong mechanics. The good news? With the right exercises, you can develop the strength and speed needed to add extra miles per hour (MPH) to your fastball, increasing your pitching velocity.
The man who wrote the words, “We hold these truths to be self-evident,” was later quick to document what he discovered to be another unquestioning truth. “The sovereign invigorator of the body is exercise, and of all the exercises, walking is best,” Thomas Jefferson wrote during the mid-1780s. “There is no habit you will value … Read more
Is running bad for your knees? According to Philadelphia physical therapist Chris McKenzie, this is a common question among both avid runners and those who may start running for exercise or to participate in that first 5K. For most people, though, the answer is a resounding no. “This question really highlights a common misconception about running – that it’s … Read more
The past several weeks has proven that most people are not inclined to sit idle at home as the world protects itself from the coronavirus. On the contrary, as people spend more time social distancing, DIY home improvement projects have surged. Related box stores have reported increased profits, and some industry surveys (i.e., Fixr.com) show that two in three homeowners have taken advantage of COVID lockdowns to complete more projects in and around their homes. So, as people put more effort toward building, fixing, improving and upgrading aspects of … Read more
After nearly six months of home quarantines, social distancing, gym closures, and cancelled/postponed athletic seasons, it’s been difficult for many to maintain consistent workout routines. But, as more people begin settling into “new normals” related to work, parenting, masking and so on, personal health is once again taking a greater role in people’s lives. While this should be … Read more
Despite being the largest and perhaps most complicated joints in our bodies, our knees are naturally docile. They’re easily influenced by what’s going on above and below them, in other words, not making many decisions on their own. That’s why when one experiences knee pain, the true causes of the joint’s wear and tear can almost always be traced up or down the leg – oftentimes in both directions. … Read more
Every September during National Falls Prevention Week (Sept. 21-25, 2020), physical therapists join other medical professions across the country in reminding Americans that falls are not just common among older Americans. They’re often debilitating, costly and even deadly. They’re also largely preventable, says Philadelphia physical therapist Chris McKenzie. “Falls present a real public health problem among older adults, but … Read more
As the school year gains momentum during the COVID crisis and more kids and families adjust to various levels of at-home learning, parents and instructors should not overlook what should be a standard facet of all children’s curriculum: physical activity. Kids need to be given time to move around, exercise and play, even as they adjust to a new structure and … Read more
November is a month when gratitude takes its place in the spotlight of American culture. Yet, with the challenges our country has faced this year, a popular notion as we approach the final weeks of 2020 is “let’s just get this year over with.” While he understands the sentiment, Philadelphia physical therapist Chris McKenzie would like to remind people that … Read more
