The interval throwing program (ITP) is [or SHOULD be] a mainstay in any throwers’ rehabilitation program. We’ve done the research – unfortunately, ITP’s aren’t prescribed near as often as needed. Understandably so, these are highly specialized components of rehab and should be thoughtfully constructed to meet the needs of each athlete. We hope that these resources provide a baseline template for initiating throwing in those deemed appropriate. Don’t forget to assess (don’t guess!) to ensure a safe and efficacious progression.
Baseball-Specific Programs
This is your gold-standard return to throwing protocol following Tommy John/UCLR, SLAP repair, etc. Long build-up allows for graft or repair site adaptations. Pay attention to phase-specific goals with a low emphasis on performance early.
Customized per infield position to accommodate for appropriate distances and reactionary throws. Allows for building arm strength and quick turns.
Specific to the catcher, the later stages of this program allow for the quick/explosive throws this position requires.
Designed to build distance and arm strength for the outfielder. Pay attention to fatigue and mechanics, especially with throws >120′.
This protocol was designed for those rehabilitating from UCL repair (versus reconstruction) which typically allows for a quicker return. Also appropriate for those non-operative conditions where a slower/structured ramp-up is preferred.
Good medium-range program designed for the infielder making throws across the diamond. Can be expanded to allow for longer time.
This program serves as a good medium-to-long range program for pitchers to build back to max distance and volume needed to be an effective starter or long-reliever. Use this for those who have been away from throwing for an extended period of time or need a slower progression. Built-in deload weeks offer a good opportunity for rest/recovery.
This program is good for high school or beyond wherein a return to competitive live-pitching is preferred in a relatively short period of time. The distance build-up is rather quick, but allows for the progressive addition of volume.
Similar to the other 9 week program, this was designed for the little league pitcher not yet throwing on a 60.5′ mound.
This is designed for the minimum time in ramp-up with a progressive approach to distance and performance over volume. Utilize this in instances where down-time was minimal and the athlete demonstrates good physical/mental readiness.
This is a very rapid return to pitching at little league distances. Utilize where down-time was minimal and the athlete demonstrates good physical/mental readiness.
This program was designed more for the performance-building phase (last stages) of returning to throw. Ideally, a volume and distance foundation have already been built and there has been no down-time prior to initiating this program.
Softball-Specific Programs
Softball Catcher
This program builds catchers from an easy base up to a 105′ ceiling before transitioning into position-specific work: throws to each base with pickoffs, steals, and bunt plays at progressive intensity. Use it for players returning from a layoff or anyone needing a structured on-ramp to a full defensive workload. Assumes a high school field.
Softball Outfielder
This program takes outfielders through the longest, most aggressive distance build of the position series, topping out near 190′, then shifts into game-specific throws: crow-hops to each base, cutoff and relay throws, and do-or-die throws home. Best suited for players who need to rebuild arm strength and volume at distance before returning to a full outfield role. Assumes a high school field.
Softball Infielder
This program builds infielders from an easy base up to a 120′ ceiling before transitioning into position-specific work: across-diamond throws, double-play feeds and turns, slow-roller charges, and throws home at progressive intensity. Use it for players returning from a layoff or anyone needing a structured on-ramp to a full defensive workload. Assumes a high school field.
Softball Pitcher
This program brings windmill pitchers back through two weeks of light overhead throwing to build arm resiliency, then transitions to an underhand routine that rebuilds distance, pitch count, intensity, and pitch variety one step at a time. Best suited for pitchers returning from injury or ramping up in the preseason. Serves as a base build that hands off to your pitching coach’s bullpen progression for the climb to full game volume. Assumes a high school field.
Other Throwing Programs
This program was designed specifically for the javelin thrower.
This throwing program was designed for the quarterback returning after surgery or lengthy injury. This program may have to be customized based on athlete potential regarding throwing distance.
For individuals who would like to focus on returning to throwing a baseball as well as quarterbacking. This program mixes volumes and distances throughout the week to create a complimentary protocol for overall arm strength and performance.
A multi-purpose weekly calendar form that can be utilized to create a custom program from scratch.