The Head First Slide - Diving Into A Base

This is a very dangerous slide if you don't do it right or do it in the wrong situations. So be careful when attempting to slide head first whether it be back into a base or going full speed into one.

The head first slide is used in many situations.

The first and probably the most used situation for a head first slide would be in diving back to a base from a lead off. You must be able to have a quick head first slide or dive back to first if you don't want to get picked off. The proper technique for a head first slide or dive back to the base is to start your head first slide when you cross over to go back to the base. Meaning, the second you see that pitcher pick, you cross over with you right foot and at the same time you begin getting parallel with the ground. Use your left leg to push you toward the base with your arms extended but slightly bent and fingers into a fist. From the push of your left leg you should be able to make it back to first before the throw gets there.

Make sure you slide to the back of the base so that there is a longer distance between you and the pitcher. This will create the longest amount of time it takes for the tag to be made.

Now for the real head first slide. The head first slide where you are running full speed at a base and there is a play going to be made. The reason you are sliding head first is to beat the play. The head first slide is going to get you there quicker than the feet first slide.

What you don't want to do is head first slide into a play. This is where injury can occur. You want to only use the head first slide to beat the play. Meaning, if there is a close play but you can get there before the baseball with a head first slide, then do it. But if you are going to be getting there are the same time, you are better off sliding feet first to the side of the base and making it hard for him to tag you, or just coming straight in hard (feet first) to scare them into mis-catching the baseball.

To perform the proper head first slide you must first practice. The best way to practice, believe it or not, is on a slip and slide. The same technique is used in sliding head first into a base as you would in slip and slide except you can slow down and have a nice smooth slide. You have to run hard and then slide. Sliding at half pace will only get you hurt or make you look stupid when sliding head first. Run hard directly toward the base.

Start your slide to where you know you will end with at least your extended hand on top of the base. You don't want to leap at the base. This will hurt you and probably knock the wind out of you. You want to get as low as you can on your last step and use that last step to push you forward, parallel to the ground.

Your arms should be extended but slightly bent and you should land on your stomach with you chest and head up. Not only will keeping your chest and head up let you see where you are sliding but it will also keep you from getting stuck in the clay and your feet coming up behind you. This is an embarrassing slide and your teammates will probably make fun of you. So be sure to keep your head up and arms out.

Other than that make sure your fingers are tucked in so you don't jam them and be sure not to over slide the base on a head first slide. This can lead to some injuries not only because you have to slide over the base but also because there is probably going to be a defender there too.