Building a Pitching Balance Beam
Building a 2x4 balance beam is fairly simple. First you will need a 2X6 and a 2X4 which you can pick up from any lumber yard, like Lowe's or Home Depot. Try to find some straight boards so the board doesn't move during drills. They normally come in 8 foot lengths, which will be sufficient for pitchers of all heights. Take the 2X4 and center it on top of the 2X6, both pieces are laying flat. Then nail the 2X4 into the 2X6 and you will have a small balance beam. If you plan to use the 2X4 inside you may wish to glue something on the bottom side like carpeting or rubber pieces. If you will be using the board outside tie plates can secured to the bottom of the board to dig into the ground and prevent slipping.
2x4 and 2x6 boards (8 ft long)
Lay the 2x4 on top of the 2x6 board
Center the board measuring each margin area. The should be one inch on each side.
Put two nails (2.5-2.75 inch nails) about 4-6 inches from the end of the board on each side as shown above.
If you plan to use the beam outside screw in "tie plates" to the bottom of the 2x6.
If you wish put 2 extra tie plates in the middle of the board. The finished product should look like this. Now when we flip the board over the tie plates should dig into the ground for extra stability. Remember, if you plan on using the board in your basement or driveway, you should use rubber support on the bottom of the board to prevent slipping. The balance beam is used for a variety of pitching drills and is my absolute favorite pitching aid.
Items Needed
- 2x4 - $3.00
- 2x6 - $4.50
- Tie Plates x 4 - $4.00
- Screws x 8 (3.75 inch) - $2.00
- Nails x 5 (2.5 inch) - $1.50
Total Cost - $15.00
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