Great question! Flexing the elbow 5-10 degrees at release point does reduce power output, but only by a minuscule amount. In this case, the risk doesn’t outweigh the reward, so that possible terminal arm extension can be more detrimental to the throw than that minute amount of power being reduced by the elbow being flexed a few degrees. Hope this helps!
So the thrower does not release the ball at full arm extension? But doesn't this reduce power since its being released from a shorter lever?
Great question! Flexing the elbow 5-10 degrees at release point does reduce power output, but only by a minuscule amount. In this case, the risk doesn’t outweigh the reward, so that possible terminal arm extension can be more detrimental to the throw than that minute amount of power being reduced by the elbow being flexed a few degrees. Hope this helps!