Want to add more zip to your fastball? Implementing a few simple plyo ball drills into your training routine can help increase arm strength and throwing velocity the right way. Pro pitcher Shea Berry shares his top tips.

The key is focusing on good mechanics and arm health rather than overdoing it. Plyo balls serve to warm up the arm, enhance muscle memory, and engage the entire kinetic chain. They should never replace a proper strength and conditioning program, which builds the true foundation for increased velocity.

Berry emphasizes starting from your natural arm slot and working backward with various rotational drills. This protects the shoulder from future injury risk. Refrain from altering mechanics or pushing unnatural motion. Keep the release point consistent, get into the proper 90 degree arm/elbow slot, and let the front arm relax rather than pulling through.

Another pro tip - go heavier rather than lighter. Underweighted balls overly stress the joints as the arm speeds up. Heavier weighted balls actually place less strain while encouraging good throwing positions.

​In the end, plyo balls act as a supplemental tool for elite players, not a quick fix. Follow Berry's lead in using them to prep right before a bullpen session or game when you already plan to throw a high volume. Else, focus plyos on your lighter throwing days and continue building a base with strength training.