If you decide to slide, you'd better know how and when to go for it. This will give you a better chance of getting to the base safely. A slide started too late can result in injury and cause embarrassment too. You will have a better chance of avoiding the tag and injury from an incoming ball or player collision if you can slide.

Knowing How

There are two types of slides which should be considered for amateur ball, the straight in and headfirst slide.

When doing a straight in slide, keep the top leg nearly straight and bend the bottom one at the knee making straight in contact with the base. This allows you to rise quickly and is best used when you cannot tell where the fielder will take the throw.

The second type is the headfirst slide, and although spectacular, is is much better left to only the most highly skilled players.

Remember to slide early, throw your hands back over your head and lie down to avoid injury.