American1. What will you work on first, and why?
A good coach watches before they fix. After seeing your player hit, they should be able to tell you, in plain language, the one or two things that matter most right now and why. If you get a long list of problems with no priority, or jargon you can't follow, keep looking.
2. Do you film swings and show us what you see?
Video lets the player see the problem and the progress. It also keeps the coach honest. Ask whether you will get the video and notes from each session.
3. What is the plan beyond the next lesson?
Ask what the next 4 to 8 weeks look like and how progress will be measured. Good measures include things you can see in games and in numbers: quality of contact, strikeouts, chasing pitches, and where measured, bat speed or exit velocity.
4. Do you train only the swing, or the whole hitter?
Mechanics matter, but hitters also need to recognize pitches, make good swing decisions, time the pitcher and handle pressure. Strength and athletic movement play a big part, too. Ask how the coach handles each of those, or who they work with for the parts they don't cover.
5. What will my player work on between lessons?
One lesson a week is a small slice of a player's swings. Most improvement happens in the work done at home. A coach should send your player away with a short, specific plan.
6. Who have you worked with at my player's age and level?
Teaching a 10-year-old and teaching a college hitter are different skills. Ask about players like yours. Results are welcome, but be wary of any coach who takes credit for every successful player they have ever met.
7. How do you handle softball hitters?
If your player is a softball hitter, ask how the coach adjusts for the shorter distance, different pitch movement and rise ball. Many principles are shared, but a good coach knows the differences.
8. What are the prices, packages and policies?
Get pricing, package terms, cancellation rules and refund policy in writing before you start. Clear coaches are happy to put it on paper.
9. How will we know if this isn't working?
A confident coach will set a check-in point, for example after six weeks, and talk honestly about whether the plan is working.
Red flags
- Promises of scholarships, a college roster spot or the draft
- “My way is the only way” and dismissing every other coach
- The same drill list for every hitter, regardless of age or problem
- No explanation of why a change is being made
- Pressure to buy a large package before a first session
What a good first lesson looks like
The coach asks questions, watches your player hit, films a few swings, picks one or two priorities, and explains them so both player and parent understand. Your player leaves with something specific to work on and a clear idea of what comes next.
Common questions
How often should a player take hitting lessons?
It depends on age, goals and budget. For many players, consistent home practice with a clear plan matters more than adding more lessons. Ask the coach what they recommend and why.
Are online or remote hitting lessons worth it?
They can be, if the coach reviews real video of your player, gives clear priorities and a plan to follow, and checks progress over time. Ask the same questions you would ask an in-person coach.
What age should a player start hitting lessons?
There is no set age. Younger players usually benefit most from fun, lots of swings and good basic habits. More detailed lessons tend to help most once a player is committed and practicing on their own.