Pool Noodle Bat

Uses

• A comparible version to a plastic baseball bat.
• This tool allows the learner to practice the skill of swinging an implement (bat) with a much cheaper and easily constructed piece of equipment, that is also very safe!

Construction Materials

• 1 pool noodle
• Tape
• Scissors
• PVC Pipe (size varies)
• PVC End Cap

Instructions for Construction

1. Choose a diameter size of PVC that's appropriate for the size and age of your learner. (Older and larger learners may need a thicker handle than 1/2-inch in diameter. For most learners, 1/2-inch PVC will work just fine).
2. Insert the pipe through the opening of the pool noodle.
3. Tape around the area where the handle is inserted into the noodle to ensure it never slips out.
4. IF the handle does not slide through the noodle, make as straight cut along the whole length of the noodle and wrap around the pipe.
5. Tape around the entire noodle to hold it tight to the pipe and close the cut gap.
6. Make sure the pipe length is long enough to go all the way through the length of the pool noodle, to ensure the bat is not to flimsy and flexible.
7. Tape thin layer up the handle for grip (just like a regular baseball bat).
8. Purchase a PVC "End Cap" or tape a thick "cap" at the bottom of the handle by making many layers of tape to resemble a regular baseball bat. This is used to assist the learner in not allowing the bat to slip through their hands and become airbourne when they swing (see last picture).
9. Steps 7 & 8 are very important for the safety of the learner and those around!

Modifications of Equipment

• Create a bracelet (string or yarn) that ties to the handle of the bat for new learners. This can be used as a safety precaution for learners with poor gripping ability to avoid them tossing the bat.
• Use this tool with "Pool Noodle Baseball Tee".