Fig. 1

Changes of the kinematic features throughout the pitching cycle. Units are the degrees (°). The black vertical line represents the time point of the stride limb contact with the mound, and the green vertical dash dot line represents the time point when the throwing arm shoulder joint reaches maximum external rotation. Abbreviation: EXT extension, FLE flexion, PF plantar flexion, DF dorsiflexion, ER external rotation, IR internal rotation.