How To Use ThrowMedic™

Congratulations on your purchase of the ThrowMedic™ Overhand Throw Training System! The ThrowMedic can help you heal your throw…and you’ll have fun doing it!  Take a little time to understand how to use your ThrowMedic correctly, effectively and safely. To get started, watch the “Set-up and Use” video below. If you prefer written step-by-step instructions, scroll down past the video link.

For more in-depth details on using the ThrowMedic and resolving common use and throwing technique issues, also watch the “Using Your ThrowMedic Effectively” and “Skill Building Exercises” videos below. Still have a question or suggestion for improving the ThrowMedic? Visit our contact page and send us a message.

The ThrowMedic is ready to see you now….

To use the ThrowMedic, first remove the device from the shipping container or tote bag and extend the support arms – one arm at a time. Do this by removing the quick release pin, turning the support arm to a position perpendicular to the tube until the quick release pin holes align, then reinserting the quick release pin. Next, extend the vertical section of the arm upward until it stops at a 90 degree angle. Once both arms are fully extended, lift the ThrowMedic device and insert the hooks at the top of each support arm into a chain-link fence, or alternatively into the optional wall mount brackets (sold separately). Adjust the height by moving the arms – one side at a time – up or down until the device is level (or slightly higher on the return spring side) and the ball is located at a height at or just above the thrower’s head (0 to 1 inch). Attach the target to the target arm and insert the target arm into the spring end of the tube. Next, move the sliding unit (the part with the ball attached) to the end of the tube opposite the return spring, lifting the ball outward until the slider engages with the support collar at the end of the tube. 

Have the user stand near the center of the training device facing the fence (or wall). Stretch out both arms to each side so that one arm is pointing at the ball and the other pointing at the target. Align the feet along that path to the target (not in line with the tube). One of the resistance bands can be stretched on the ground from the ball to the target to help the users align the feet along the throw path. To give the user a clearer target line, clip one end of a resistance band to the top of the target arm and clip the other to the tube end on the opposite side of the trainer. Have the user shuffle toward the ball-side of the trainer until the throwing hand is able to reach the ball, then have the user put both arms down. Start the throw by extending both arms up together – one toward the ball and the other toward the target – with the palms down. Grab the ball with the throwing hand facing away and placing the fingers along the lines on the ball and across the seams.

BEGIN THE THROW SLOWLY TO GET A FEEL FOR THE THROWMEDIC.  It will take a few throws to adapt to the trainer, especially if just learning how to throw. (Most beginners will want to twist their hand either prematurely or excessively during the release motion. This will cause the hand to slip off the ball.). After gripping the ball, begin the throw by first slowing stepping toward the target with the glove-side foot, rotating the hips in the direction of the target while allowing the glove-side arm to fold inward toward the chest as the user steps forward. At that time, shoulder rotation (external rotation) should begin by thrusting the chest slightly upward and forward toward the glove hand while bringing the throwing elbow forward ahead of the ball (see shoulder rotation exercise in the skill building video). Continue by accelerating the forearm through (internal rotation) while bending forward slightly at the waste, pushing the fingers forward on the back of the ball and forcing the finger tips to the bottom of the ball to make the ball spin downward at release. After release, continue to extend the arm to a forward and nearly elbow-locked position with the wrist bent downward, ensuring the nearly elbow-locked arm continues downward until it reaches the outside of the throwers glove-side thigh and the thrower’s waste is sufficiently bent to allow the throwing hand to reach near the knee. Make certain the thrower is aiming at the target when throwing and not simply following the tube with their hand. Throwing at the target will help to keep the forearm at a 90 degree or greater angle and the fingers pointed slightly outward. (If you prefer the 3/4 throwing angle versus the over-the-top throw, simply back up a little ways from the fence (or wall) before throwing and taking a greater foot placement angle more toward the outside of the target.)  After the throw the ball will spring back to the thrower, who can then repeat the entire process to help build muscle memory…and they’ll have fun doing it!

Have questions? Begin by viewing our video series on this page. If you’re still having trouble, send us a note on our contact page!  We’ll get back with you as quickly as possible. (We’re a small company just starting out, so thank you for your patience.)

Coming soon:

Using Your ThrowMedic Effectively video

Skill Building Exercises video