Throwing Speed and Ranges
The speed at which you could throw without a radar gun would be determined by strength, athleticism, and weight of the object thrown. The average person likely throws between 30 and 50 miles per hour without a radar gun. However, some people throw much faster or slower.
If you throw a ball vertically upward to 30.1 meters, what is maximum horizontal range? Julie throws a ball leaving her hand 1.5 meters above ground with initial velocity. You throw a ball into air with 31 feet per second initial vertical velocity. The ball leaves your hand 6 feet above ground.
Baseball Pitching Speed
Top softball pitchers like Jennie Finch throw about 70 miles per hour, a low-90s fastball from 60 feet. Without practice, average person lucky to throw baseball over 50 mph. For players, averages range 40-50 mph for young 9-10 year olds, 55-75 mph for 10-17 year olds, and 80 mph for 18+ year olds. 14 year old average speed about 65 mph. Average 14-15 year old pitcher speed about 70 mph.
Clay Throwing and Technique
Beginner potters say first 10,000 bowls just prepare you to really start throwing! Men: best step-up box 20 inches high. Women: best 16 inches high. Some men start with 20 inch box. Most beginners start with 16 inch box. Can increase to 24 or 30 inches if confident.
Wet clay should be soft and sticky but not dripping off hands. If picked up, should resemble very thick icing.
Factors Affecting Throwing Speed
What factors affect throwing speed? Strength, athleticism, weight of object, and technique all impact velocity. Top softball pitchers throw around 70mph. Some baseball pitchers can reach speeds over 100 mph.
Measuring Throwing Speed and Technique
How can I measure throwing speed? Radar guns can precisely measure velocity. Or estimate speed by timing the ball’s flight over a set distance. Throwing upwards can also calculate horizontal velocity through physics equations.
For beginners, focus on proper technique not speed. Grip ball with fingers, not palm. Lead throw with elbow, flicking wrist right before release. Follow through pointing at target with throwing shoulder.
Consistency enables progress. Thousands of good throws build muscle memory. With practice, average speeds improve each year from ages 9 to 18. Athletes genetically predisposed to strength and flexibility have potential to excel. Still, perseverance furthers all talent.