Not Doing It Versus Can’t Do It

# The problem coaches misread

# Not doing it versus can't do it

When a player won't adopt a correction after instruction and reps, it's easy to blame habit or motivation. But sometimes the athlete is trying and still can't make the movement. The body protects itself first. If the primary muscles or fascial pathways for a task are weak, restricted, or otherwise unavailable, the central nervous system recruits alternative muscles to get the job done. The result looks like technique failure but is actually a compensation.

# How compensation shows up in softball

A hitter who should keep hands high and on-plane instead drops them to the waist. That scooping motion might be coaching or timing, but it could also mean the muscles and fascial lines that would keep the bat on a better path aren't up to the task. The body uses other muscles to move the bat so the player at least swings instead of freezing. The swing exists, but it's inefficient.

# What coaches should do differently

Start with a clear split between intent and capacity. Ask: Is the player unwilling to do the prescribed movement, or unable? If she's unwilling, traditional technical coaching, repetition, and accountability may be appropriate. If she's unable, technical cues alone won't fix it.

• Observe movement patterns across tasks and note asymmetries or consistent compensations.

• If tests suggest physical limits, add targeted corrective exercises and stretching that address the weak or restricted muscles and relevant fascial lines.
• Track changes: if corrective work improves capacity, blend it with technique drills. If not, refer to a physical therapist or corrective exercise specialist.

# Invest in movement knowledge

# Practical coaching mindset

Treat recurring poor patterns as a diagnostic signal rather than only a behavioral problem. Use short assessments to decide whether to persist with technique cues or switch to corrective capacity work. That approach reduces wasted coaching time, helps players improve performance sooner, and can lower injury risk.