As we said in the previous lesson, the leg-first pop-up slide is best. But you will see other slides used, especially at senior and pro levels.

None of these should be used by young players, but it's better to know how they happen — and why there's a risk. Currently these are not show animated; we're deciding if the risk factor still warrants a full demo of proper technique.

Arm Hook Slide

This is more often used as a "break-up" slide when the fielding play is happening on the shortstop side of 2nd base. You won't be able to recover quickly on overthrow and advance another base.

• Come in feet first (similar to pop-up)
• Slide beside the bag - on the side away from any possible throw
• Grab bag with your arm on way by.

The injury risk - to the shoulder joint if you come in too close to the bag and not far enough off to the side.  Other, if lesser, risks include arm abrassions, and jambed fingers.
Leg Hook Slide

This , too, is a "break up" slide, but is also tried to avoid a tag when the fielder takes the throw inside the bag (towards home plate).

• Come in feet first (similar to arm hook)
• Slide is also beside the bag, but leg closest to bag is bent back rather than under (body rolls in opposite direction).

The injury risk - to your knee and hip joints, plus a possible ankle sprain. The strategic risk is over-sliding — there' s a good chance you'll slide by and not maintain contact with the base.

Head First Slide?

Pros who do the head first dive will keep their hands in a fist with thumb tucked in — not open, splayed fingers as shown. They might also wear sliding gloves or remove and grip their batting gloves to help make the fist (see lesson 3).

What about using the head first slide when advancing a base in youth leagues?

Don't. Period.

The injury risks -  include jambed fingers, twisted forearms, scraped face, concussion, or worse. Any questions?
 
Look for this lesson series to continue soon with details for getting from 2nd to Home. Also review the detailed written a articles in the Advanced Course.