Game version
Base-path signals: a partner calls “go” or “stay” and you round the bases or hold, smoothly. Swap callers.
Lead-Off and Return
Practice a balanced lead and a quick return to the base.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Take the lead your league allows (or a starting stance on the base).
Core: To second. , with a full rest between. Aim for smooth turns.
- Ages
- 7 and up
- Time
- 8 min
- Players
- Just you
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Base
- Level · skill
- Beginner · Base Running
The steps
How it works
- Take the lead your league allows (or a starting stance on the base).
- On a clap, step back to the base standing up, or slide back feet first.
- Reset and repeat.
- Do 12 reps.
Coaching point
Stay low and balanced, ready both ways.
Safety: Never dive head first back to the base. Practice feet-first slides only on grass or soft dirt, with a coach.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (to first), Core (to second), More (to third), with a full rest between. Aim for smooth turns.
Story
You are a base runner reading the coach’s signals.
My best
Beat your own count
, with a full rest between. Aim for smooth turns. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
Print it now, or save it free
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