As you probably realize, cars have become very complicated over the years. This has resulted in specialization by mechanics.

In the past, a mechanic was usually just a mechanic. It was pretty much expected that he could work on just about any kind of machine. His tool kit carried in a small metal box was sufficient to fix just about any machine or motor that he encountered. Training was usually done on the job at the side of an older and more experienced mechanic. People rarely thought of different types of mechanics. It was a much simpler time.

Today, this has changed very dramatically. The age of technology is characterized by an almost explosive advancing complexity and variety in machines. Although all mechanics share many basic skills, it has become necessary to specialize in one area or another to be able to reach a degree of proficiency. Within the automobile repair realm, this specialization has been reflected in mechanics that are transmission mechanics, or engine repair mechanics, or electrical systems mechanics, or even body repair mechanics.

Although in the early days of aviation, the automobile mechanic and the airplane mechanic were interchangeable, today they represent two totally different types. Within the aviation field, there are even more individual specialties than can be found in automotive mechanical work. This specialization continues into several other branches. There are motorcycle mechanics and nautical engine mechanics. There are mechanics that specialize in keeping the modern machinery of industry maintained and repaired.

There is some glamour to the mechanical field as well. Mechanics that work with race cars and serve on pit crews do exciting, dangerous, and highly paid work. They are considered to be the pinnacle of their profession by many people. The mechanics who service the NASCAR circuits are considered to be at the very cutting edge of mechanical knowledge and skill.

Another distinction of mechanics is based on the idea of Certification and training. The ever changing and rapidly increasing demands on the mechanic have forced them to constantly train and keep abreast of the new technology. Certification programs have been designed to satisfy this need, but also the give the consumers more confidence about the skill and experience of the mechanics when they are in need of one. We have come a long way from the days of the “shade tree, jack of all trades” mechanic. The field of mechanics is exciting and challenging in a way that it never was in the past. The skill level between the average person and the mechanic has never been greater nor has the need for skilled mechanics ever been greater.

By: Aazdak Alisimo

About the Author:

Osceola County Mechanic

Most people agree that owning a home based business is the way to go. In fact, for many people, it is a dream of a lifetime to get out from the 9-to-5 grind and become your own boss. One way to do this is to become a backyard mechanic.

Of course being a backyard mechanic is quite different than operating a regular shop. In fact, you may find legislative challenges to overcome in order to start your business. But there are still ways to operate a accurate mechanic shop without the expense of a regular shop.

Aside from basic repairs and oil changes, you may also be able to do some autobody work on cars that have been accidents. For all of this you will need to have a good supply of inexpensive car parts. So where are you to find them? Here are some ways to find inexpensive car parts when you’re starting out as a backyard mechanic:

· Type “wholesale auto parts” into your search engine browser and find an innumerable amount of car part suppliers who can give you great prices on parts, free delivery over a certain amount, and sometimes even a warranty.

· Use eBay to find a great deal on parts, especially parts that are difficult to find elsewhere, on just about any car imaginable. EBay offers a good warranty on car parts purchased through them and the only drawback is that if you lose an auction you have to buy the part from somewhere else and that can be time-consuming.

· Form an auto-parts buying club with other local car enthusiasts to be able to buy in large quantities and get wholesale discounts.

· Contact your local scrap yard dealers and ask them if they’ll give you a discount if you buy a lot of scrap parts from them and take them off yourself, thereby eliminating their costs for labor and storage.

· If you live in a large city and can specialize in just a handful of vehicles, you can buy several scrap vehicles quite cheaply, store them, and use them for parts.

Many people moonlight as backyard mechanics, fixing the cars of family and friends. If local laws allow it, there is little to stop you from doing the same as a full-time job. And saving money with car parts would help you earn a profit quickly.

By: Jeff Lakie

About the Author:

mechanic

Online Diesel Mechanic Schools offer certification and degrees through a distance learning course. Diesel Mechanic students can train at home via the Internet, without giving up current employment.

Certification from an online Diesel Mechanic School will prepare you for an exciting and high-paying career repairing heavy equipment vehicles, diesel truck engines, and buses. Via distance learning, students are taught to repair diesel fuel and ignition systems as well as automotive engines. Future Diesel Mechanics also learn about hydromechanical diesel fuel injection, computerized truck and bus systems, emissions, diesel powertrains, truck steering, suspension, brake and transmission systems, electronic technology fundamentals, and advanced diagnostic systems.

Depending on the choice of schools, online training courses last between 6 months and two years. Graduates earn certificates, diplomas or degrees as Diesel Mechanics, Diesel Service Technicians, Diesel Truck Service Technicians or Auto-Diesel Mechanic.

Certified Diesel Mechanics are qualified to apply for work at an automotive repair shop. With a few additional years of hands-on experience, a Diesel Mechanic can gain the skills and confidence needed to start a business of their own!

If you enjoy working with your hands and repairing vehicles, a career in Diesel Mechanics may be just right for you. You can learn more about Diesel Mechanics, and research distance learning courses and online schools at SchoolsGalore.com

Copyright 2006 – All Rights Reserved
Michael Bustamante, in association with Media Positive Communications, Inc. for SchoolsGalore.com

By: Michael Bustamante

About the Author:

This article is how to choose an automotive technician. We used to call them mechanics and some were named Grubber with arms so long that their hands dragged on the ground. These guys could fix things and many times without the right part being available. These old time mechanics were the guys you took into the outback.

Today the automotive technician wears a sharp shop uniform and does his work with a $100,000.00 worth of shop equipment. This guy’s service charges range where from $70 to $120 dollars per hour in the Tri-City area. If you are going to pay some one as much to fix your car as you did your doctor a few years ago then you should spend some time in selecting an automotive technician.

Some of the things that should be considered important in selecting a technician;

honestyIntegrityTrainingAbility to readCuriosityDesire to do a good job.Has an honest boss.Works for an honest business.Constantly up dates his training.Works on many makes and models. In choosing a technician it is recommended to choose an independent shop for a number of reasons. The most important is that the technician in an independent shop has to work on everything. This gives him greater insight and a much large pool of experience to draw upon.

You should check with people that have taken their cars to this shop. Most shops will recommend a few of their good customers that you can call. Ask these folks tough questions.

Interview the shop owner.

Ask the owner if he still works on cars. Ask him how he writes his estimates.Ask him how he figures the markup on parts.Ask him what his warrantee policy is?Ask if he has a written pricing policy and warrantee policy.Ask what his credit policy is.Ask if you can pick the technician to work on your car. Interview the technicians in the shop if possible:

Ask how they are paid?Ask if they are expected to bill more than 120 hours per month. (If they are find another shop).Ask if the shop pays for education and seminars. This all comes down to basic honesty. Flat rate is a method to write estimates but in should not be the end bill. If the flat rate program is good then the bill should be close to the estimate. The rub comes from the technician that works 40 hours per week and bills 80 hours per week. This means that the customer is overcharged by 50%. We are am not a great proponents of flat rate billing. Rattlesnake Mountain Enterprises spent a lot of time choosing a good flat rate program for doing estimates and bills. This program is the fairest that we could find both for the shop and the customer. I have yet to bill more than 25 hours of my own work in a week. Yes, I would be told that I was not efficient enough for a dealership or large independent shop. I have read some shop business plans that were based upon all technicians billing 120% of their time.

If you get positive answers to most of these questions, then give the shop a try. As you can see it pays to choose your auto repair facility before you have a serious problem.

By: Charles Evans

About the Author:

Mechanics in Kissimmee

When speaking to your mechanic or service representative, there are many things one should never say. Sad as this is, certain questions and requests can trigger multiple price-gouging tactics from your service center. Following is a list of ten statements in random order. The term “mechanic” may be exchanged for “technician,” “service representative,” “service advisor,” “owner,” “service manager,” or anyone that you deal with when having your vehicle serviced.

1) Do I need a tune-up?

This innocent question seeks to ensure that your vehicle is up-to-speed with its maintenance. However, it reveals that you know nothing about your car’s maintenance and can therefore be “easily” taken advantage of.

What your mechanic is thinking: Putty in my hands!

Instead: ask what services are due for your vehicle given its age and mileage according to your manufacturer guidelines. Also visit the maintenance link at the end of this article for an overview of today’s maintenance needs.

2) Do I need tires?

Essentially what you’re asking is whether or not your tires are safe, and if they are wearing normally given the current mileage.

What your mechanic is thinking: Cha-Ching!

Instead: ask that your tires be checked to ensure that they are “wearing normally given the current mileage.” You should be provided with tread-depth measurements, and any other notable conditions such as cupping, abnormal wear, sidewall damage, bubbles, dry-rot—cracks or splits in the rubber—and any other pertinent information.

3) I’m taking a trip.

This comment is a safety concern. It’s great that you’re taking a trip—have a nice time—but your mechanic doesn’t need to know this.

What your mechanic is thinking: This guy’s nervous about his car making the trip. I can sell him anything! You may even see a reflection of $$$$ signs flash in his eyes.

Instead: tell your mechanic to ensure that your vehicle is in sound condition. You want to ensure it is “operating as designed.” If you are following a factory maintenance schedule with a decent service center, they should be keeping you up-to-date with your vehicle’s condition and needs. If not, find another shop.

4) My son’s going off to college.

Congratulations, but your mechanic doesn’t need to know this either. You’re concern is with your vehicle’s integrity in order to protect your child.

What your mechanic is thinking: Daddy can foot the college bill…Cha-Ching!

Instead: ask that your vehicle be checked over to determine that it’s in sound operating condition, as you would like to keep it for a few years (hopefully four). Request a list of anything your vehicle may need in the order of priority—safety being the most important factor.

5) I know it’s probably something bad.

It’ll be bad alright. The service industry is extremely negative. Don’t add to it!

What your mechanic is thinking: Bad for you, anyway.

Instead: keep a positive attitude. If you’re frustrated or nervous about the expense, then say that. In truth, most repairs are simple. If not, find another shop, or get another car.

6) Take all the time you need. I just want it fixed right.

You’re clearly patient, and probably a perfectionist, which is fine. But…

What your mechanic is thinking: Charge all the money I need! Charge all the money I want!

Instead: try saying, “I am particular about my car, and would like it fixed correctly the first time. Please make your best effort to put my vehicle in the hands of the most qualified technician to address my concern(s). And please keep me up-to-date with its progress and any additional costs.”

7) Just do whatever.

You either really don’t care or money is not an issue.

What your mechanic is thinking: Charge whatever!

Instead: take a moment and say, “Please perform all services according to manufacturer guidelines only. If my vehicle needs any further repairs, please notify me in advance with the break down of the costs.”

I’m taking a trip to Europe; please drop my car off at the Ritz-Carlton when you’re done.

Drop offs are a common request—although Europe and the Ritz aren’t so common.

What your mechanic is thinking: Actually, in this case, he’s probably singing…I’m in the money…I’m in the money…

Instead: request what services you would like while you’re away, but then provide a contact number to be notified of “any” additional services, recommendations, and costs.

9) Just fix it.

This request generally reflects one who lacks the time or patience to worry about the details, and wants his or her vehicle back as quickly as possible.

What your mechanic is thinking: No Problemo…Mucho Dinero!

Instead: remember that the devil’s in the details. Request to be notified of any additional costs to demonstrate that your wallet is not a free-for-all.

10) Do you want my credit card now?

The motive here may be expediency and efficiency.

What your mechanic is thinking: No problem paying! No problem charging!

Instead: request that you be advised of any costs above and beyond what you agree to at the time of your appointment. Pay after. Always pay after.

All the above comments, requests, and questions, while innocent, are taken advantage of daily in the automotive service industry. These statements “reveal your hand.” You may have a long and trusting relationship with your service center, but for God’s sake, keep your cards in!

There’s a lot of truth in humor.

The truth stings a bit.

The truth EMPOWERS.

By: Theodore Olson

About the Author:

mechanic

If you got the relevant information about the market value of your desired car that does not mean your work is over. Your car needed to be examined by a professional. The mechanic will be able to inform you the exact condition of the car and the required estimate for its repairing. After going through a test drive, you have finally decided the model and make of the car you are going to buy. After considering the model and make of the car, go through the complete list of cars that you are having. Select one or two cars as your final selection. If your mechanic approves your selection then get ready to buy your car. Your selected vehicle required some deposit from you. You must take certain precautions before giving them check. On the check write down,’ Deposit is refundable, as it is dependent on the approval of the mechanic.’

Take the vehicle and call the seller for a drive. Suppose the seller wants to have a private transportation. In such situation, pay half amount of the bill. It is possible to get private transportation and that too at a lower cost, if your mechanic arranges the transportation. You must inform your mechanic, if your vehicle is currently registered. You should call the seller at your garage in the presence of mechanic. If the seller is not ready on this arrangement then you must stop dealing with him. If the seller is acting in this manner that means there is something suspicious. The seller very well knew that your mechanic would catch the problem in the vehicle. Therefore, you must be a little alert while dealing in such situations.

The Professional Check

A professional check by a mechanic is the significant step you are taking while purchasing the car. You can avoid many troubles that may occur without an active participation from the mechanic. You must check thoroughly the title certificates or damages due to any accident, the vehicle had met in past. Before buying a used car, it must be examined thoroughly by a mechanic. You can save a lot of money by this initial examination from your mechanic. The complete review of the mechanical aspects of the car will cost you around $50 to $150. The used car always require a little bit of repairing. These small faults may cause big damages to you later. Mechanic is the only person who can give you the exact condition of the car. He could also give you an estimate of the amount that is needed for repairing. While negotiating the price, this report will help you a lot. Try to avoid a bargain-priced car. The Bargain-priced car demands a lot of work. It can be a bad experience for you. The experienced wholesalers of cars often lose a lot of money.

Mechanic Search

The mechanic plays an important role while buying the used car. You must start the professional check with a mechanic. However, if you are not getting then get him as early as possible. Take care not to waste time in looking for mechanic. Search a dealer or an independent garage that specializes in that particular model you are buying. It would be better, if you ask in your neighborhood or with your friends. It would be best, if someone had already dealt with that particular mechanic or dealer. It also need visit by you on different shops and dealers. Try to analyze their behavior and their specialization of the model. After getting the mechanic, you must treat him/her politely. This one person can save a lot of your hard-earned money. Moreover, he will give you the accurate condition of your vehicle.

Inspection of Your Selection

After doing the final selection, take it to your mechanic. He will give you the accurate condition and estimate of the vehicle. You can help the mechanic a lot by giving him all the documents regarding the vehicle. For Instance, the complete maintenance receipts and documents. These documents will help the mechanic in judging the accurate estimate and condition of the vehicle. A car with good billing records means it had gone through a proper maintenance. Thus, it is quite possible that it is a good car to buy. The documents must be checked thoroughly. The documents should belong to the selected car, from the same owner and the same area. Mechanic must be informed, if you find the documents for the repairing of same items more than once. You must ask your seller regarding this. Inquire the seller, if there are inconsistencies in maintenance records. This shows the attitude of the seller. All claims by the seller must be written down in document form. Such as, repairs, fitness of the vehicle and prospective repairs.

You must ask for all the repairs needed by the car and the estimate cost of repairing. All these things must be done, while the vehicle is in garage. Many tests needed to be done by your mechanic. For Instance, battery and charging tests, frame inspection, alignment and suspension check, fluid leakage inspection and brake inspection. The performance of engine and transmission could be tested by a test drive. There are certain areas where the emission inspection is important. If you reside in such an area then go for that test also. Do not forget to ask the way to tackle problems regarding the vehicle in future. Collect information about the selected vehicle, along with general information about the model. You can easily get the sales contract of automobiles at most of the office supply stores. If the official there demands for a cash or certified check then take him to the bank along with you. Do the final transaction at bank. On the sales agreement and any other sales tax form, both of you must sign correctly.

The Title Certificates

Be aware

If the vehicle has been totaled, flooded, or branded then the title must show this. It is a requirement of many states. Several states re-inspect or re-title the branded vehicle after passing the inspection. You can also hide the previous history of the branded vehicle by registering it to the state that allows such practices. The owner will receive a new title after both the actions.
It is a well-known fact that the older titles cannot be exhibited as a perfect car. Suppose the original owner of the vehicle has bought it from the insurance company and repaired it fully. The Original title would not b able to reflect all this. The title of the vehicle must be considered carefully. Check the date of issue of the documents. Cross check the used vehicle with the latest brand of the same model and inquire fully. The original owner often makes excuses that he had lost the originals of the vehicle.

The owner can make several other excuses. Such as, a need of co-owner, holder had been removed, or the owner is not an original owner. In such situations, you must act intelligently. Ask the owner for copy of the old title, bill of sale, completed and dated request form for title.

A Complete History of Vehicle

You can save yourself from a bigger trouble by considering an Experian Auto check Report. You must order this check for the used vehicle you are considering. This check is meant to save you from a used car with hidden and costly problems. It is having a database of 15 billion records, comprising of around 330 million vehicles. Thus, it offers protection against odometer fraud, salvaged vehicles, lemon cars and several unknown problems. There is a unique VIN number for US registered vehicle. The Experian find details about the history of vehicle using this number. You will get the complete report of the vehicle on your computer screen.

By: Dave H Clark

About the Author:

Mechanic in Kissimmee

Various factors are involved in creating a straight shot from your club. There are many factors that go into hitting a golf ball straight. Over here we will discuss about such issues. The technicalities of the game of golf take a lot of time and patience to achieve that perfect golf swing. Basically the mechanics of a good golf swing are learned with a lot of practice.

How to develop mechanics of a good golf swing? Primarily you have to figure out you problem area. This can be achieved by requesting your friend or companion to record your movements in a camera. Though recording the movement in any place (for example driving range) is okay, but it is always better to get them recorded on the golf course. Your true form is exposed on the fairways. Driving ranges may not be a good place to record your movements because you play differently over there owing to the fact that you are not playing on natural grass. Understanding the mechanics of a golf swing on the course will bring desired results in your game.

When you have adequately and contently recorded your game, you should sit and watch back the mistakes you have been making all through. You will be able to point out your skewed motions; the main reasons for the ball going in wrong directions. You will see the kind of irregular and unnatural actions are happening in your golf swings.

When you are equipped with sufficient knowledge and tips on the mechanics of a golf swing, you can incorporate them into your swing. Do this while you are on a golf course, as it is the best place for perfecting your mechanics. Some people suggest that visiting a driving range is not that bad an idea before hitting the main golf course. Hitting lots of balls in the driving area will make you adept and golf course will be a cake walk.

Once the driving range saga is over, it is time to take on the golf course. If possible, get a camera back and record your game. Compare your new game with the last game. Check out on your scorecard, your rhythm, and the comfort level. Check out the fact that you are playing the game with more ease. Once you have finished playing, go back to analyzing yourself. View the recordings and see the difference in your game. Definitely, the efforts you have put in to make your game better will show rewards.

By: Todd Eubanks

About the Author:

Best Mechanics in Kissimmee

Some folks think they are too good to get their hands dirty as a mechanic, but this is somewhat limited thinking and quite arrogant in many respects. For instance, a student with an MBA will most likely work the first 5 years of their career in a smaller company to get experience, where as mechanics start at a high hourly pay nearly the second they graduate and many companies will pay for their educational bills and send them to specialty training.

And just because you are a mechanic does not mean you will be getting as dirty as you think, as there are all sorts of mechanics and they work on many different things. Right now there are shortages of Airplane Mechanics, Truck Mechanics, Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Marine Mechanics and Hybrid Car Mechanics, as well as regular car mechanics. Today, this equipment is high tech and the mechanics are highly skilled using computer equipment to trouble shoot and do diagnostics.

For those who think that being a mechanic is less than noble, well, they may be pleasantly surprised to find that there is a shortage of car mechanics of about 145,000 and truck mechanics of about 75,000 and that’s just right now, the numbers are growing and so is the pay. If you have ever wanted to retrain yourself for a good paying job, look no further, because there is a high-paying, in-demand mechanics job waiting for you “Before” you graduate and most trade schools cannot even fill the job orders that come into the schools. Something to think about indeed.

By: Lance Winslow

About the Author:

Osceola County Mechanic

If you are looking for Vanuatu activities, one that is a must try is Scuba Diving. Many of us dream of scuba diving on their exotic holidays, but are worried that if they learn how to dive, they may finish up wasting a large amount of their holiday cash and time on one activity. The reality is, there are diving courses and faculties all around the world, and it’s feasible to start your learn how to dive course in your local country and to complete it whilst you are on your holiday. Or better yet, you can complete the small amount of theory required to learn how to dive before you start on holiday and earn a diving certification that may allow you to scuba dive anywhere on the planet whilst on holidays. So before you start on holiday, look into your options thoroughly if you would like to be taught how to dive. When you learn how to dive, you’ll be taught basic mechanics in a pool. This might appear simplistic, but even the best swimmers need to learn special systems for movement when they learn how to dive, since mechanics are not the same as those used with steady swimming, particularly since divers have kit to cope with too. The introductory course or discover scuba also teaches the potential diver equipment use and preparation.

This is the most intimidating aspect for people that desire to be taught how to dive, but after you get to understand ways to correctly handle your dive equipment, you can start to dive confidently. Naturally, safety is a vital part of your course as you learn how to dive, and the buddy system is necessary, even for seasoned divers.
Other skills taught in beginning and intermediate courses include some school room as well as pool work, and Openwater dive training. You may learn how to dive thru manuals and videos, not just underwater, but lots of these materials can be studied at home to maximize the quantity of time students spend in the water. A lot of dive operations also offer online learning.

Most places have a minimum age, but this is rather young, usually around 10 to 12. For those that have medical conditions eg, diabetes or asthma, you normally wouldn’t be permitted to dive unless a doctor approves the course for the patient. Some faculties will require you to take a medical examination, and others will permit anybody to begin the course if they appear to be in good general health or answer no to all the questions on a fairly detailed medical questionnaire. Many scuba dive faculties offer refresher courses and a lot offer them free of charge. Anyone that wants to resume diving as a pastime should take a refresher course if they haven’t had a dive for a year or two. Diving certifications issued by some accreditation companies don’t expire so if you can’t find your dive certification card a lot of operations can look up old certifications online for you.

Some students who learn how to dive will go on and continue and take more sophisticated courses, for example Openwater and Advanced Openwater or on to Dive Master or Instructor. Some will need to give up their lifeless nine to five grind and become full time scuba diving instructors. It’s a great job for those that like to be in the water and to go to exotic locations. However, given the safety points to consider, certification for scuba dive instructors requires quite a lot of experience and study and many would rather simply learn how to dive for pleasure than to contemplate a job in scuba diving.

Whether you need to learn to dive, take a refresher course or take your training to the next level there is a dive facility not to far from you or most certainly available at your next holiday destination if it is close to water.

By: Peter Phillipps

About the Author:

Basic basic shots include the one-hand set shot, free throw, jump shot, three-point shot, hook shot, lay-up, and runner. These shots share certain basic mechanics, including sight, balance, hand position, elbow-in alignment, shooting rhythm, and follow-through. The best way to develop your shot is to concentrate on only one or two mechanics at a time.

Sight

Focus your eyes on the basket, aiming just over the front of the rim for all except bank shots. Use a bank shot when you are at a 45-degree angle to the backboard. A 45-degree angle falls within the distance between the box and the middle hash mark on the lane line. The distance for the bank angle–called the 45-degree funnel–widens as you move out. For shooting a bank shot, aim for the top near corner of the box on the backboard. Sight your target as soon as possible and keep your eyes focused on the target until the ball reaches the goal. Your eyes should never follow the flight of the ball or your defender’s hand. Concentrating on the target helps eliminate distractions such as shouting, towel waving, an opponent’s hand, or even a hard foul.

Balance

Being in balance leads to power and rhythmic control in your shot. Your base, or foot position, is the foundation of your balance, and keeping your head over your feet (base) controls your balance. Spread your feet comfortably to shoulder width and point your toes straight ahead. Pointing your toes straight aligns your knees, hips, and shoulders with the basket. The foot on the side of your shooting hand (right foot for a right-handed shot) is forward. The toe of your back foot is aligned with the heel of the foot on your shooting side (toe-to-heel relationship). Flex your legs at the knees. This gives crucial power to your shot. Beginning and fatigued players often fail to flex their knees. To compensate for the lack of power from not using their legs, they tend to throw the ball from behind the head or shove the ball from the hip. Both actions produce errors. Your head should be over your waist and feet. Your head controls your balance and should be slightly forward, with your shoulders and upper body inclining forward toward the basket. Your shoulders should be relaxed.

Hand Position

Hand position is the most misunderstood part of shooting. It is vital to start and finish your shot with your shooting hand facing the basket (behind the ball). Placing the non-shooting hand under the ball for balance is also important. This position, with the shooting hand facing the basket (behind the ball) and the non-shooting hand under the ball, is called the block-and-tuck. It leaves your shooting hand free to shoot the ball, rather than having to balance and shoot the ball. Place your hands fairly close together. Relax both hands and spread the fingers comfortably. Keep the thumb of your shooting hand relaxed and not spread apart to avoid tension in your hand and forearm. A relaxed hand position (like a handshake) forms a natural cup, enabling the ball to contact the pads of your fingers and not your palm. Place your non-shooting (balance) hand slightly under the ball. The weight of the ball balances on at least two fingers: the ring finger and the little finger. The arm of your balance hand should be in a comfortable position, with the elbow pointing slightly back and to the side. Your shooting hand is turned toward the basket behind the ball, your index finger directly at the ball’s midpoint. The ball is released off your index finger. On a free throw, you have time to align your index finger with the valve or other marking at the midpoint of the ball. Developing fingertip control and touch leads to a soft, accurate shot.

Elbow-In Alignment

Hold the ball comfortably in front of and above your shooting-side shoulder between your ear and shoulder. Keep your shooting elbow in. When your shooting elbow is in, the ball is aligned with the basket. Some players do not have the flexibility to place the shooting hand behind the ball facing the basket while keeping the elbow in. In this case, first place your shooting hand behind the ball facing the basket, then move the elbow in as far as your flexibility allows.

Rhythmical Shooting Motion

Shoot the ball with a smooth, evenly paced, rhythmical lifting motion. Shooting involves synchronizing the extension of your legs, back, shoulders, and shooting elbow and the flexion of your wrist and fingers. The initial force and rhythm for your shot come from a down-and-up motion of your legs. Start with your knees slightly flexed. Bend your knees and then fully extend them in a down-and-up motion. Saying the key words down and up from the start of your shot until the release of the ball will trigger the down-and-up action of your legs, providing rhythm and force for your shot. Your legs and shooting arm work together. As your legs go up, your arm goes up. As your legs reach full extension, your back, shoulders, and shooting arm extend in a smooth, continuous upward direction. It is vital to keep the ball high with your shooting hand toward the basket. Use the down-and-up motion of your legs for rhythm rather than lowering the ball for rhythm. Keeping the ball high fosters a quick release and also provides less chance for error. As your arm goes up, the ball is tipped back from your balance hand to your shooting hand. A good guide is to tip the ball back only until there is a wrinkle in the skin between your wrist and forearm. This angle provides a quick release and consistent follow-through. Direct your arm, wrist, and fingers straight toward the basket at a 45- to 60-degree angle, extending your shooting arm completely at the elbow. The final force and control of your shot comes from flexing your wrist and fingers forward and down. Release the ball off your index finger with soft fingertip touch to impart backspin on the ball and soften the shot. Keep your balance hand on the ball until the point of release. The amount of force you should impart to the ball depends on the range of the shot. For short distances, the arm, wrist, and fingers provide most of the force. Long-range outside shots require more force from your legs, back, and shoulders. Smooth rhythm and a complete follow-through will also improve long-range shooting.

Follow-Through

After releasing the ball off the index finger, keep your arm up and fully extended with the index finger pointing straight to the target. The palm of your shooting hand should be turned down and the palm of your balance hand should be turned up. Keep your eyes on your target. Exaggerate your follow-through. Hold your arm up in a complete follow-through position until the ball reaches the basket, then react to the rebound or get into defensive position. Holding your follow-through until the ball reaches the basket is not only good mechanics, but it also makes you look and act like a shooter and increases confidence.

Edited from:

Wissel, Hal (2004) Basketball: Steps to Success, 2nd edition, Human Kinetics, Champaign, IL

Available at www.basketballworld.com

By: Hal Wissel

About the Author:

Best Mechanics in Kissimmee