What is a load?
The load prepares the body for explosive movement.
Explosive movement is difficult from a resting position.
Before a sprinter leaves the blocks, a quarterback throws a pass, or a golfer begins the downswing, the body prepares to move.
The body puts itself in a position to move explosively.
Hitting is no different.
A good load prepares the body to move explosively without sacrificing control.
But preparation alone isn't enough.
The load should also position the hitter for everything that follows.
A good load should not make it more difficult to stay balanced. It should not interfere with an efficient firing sequence. It should not force the barrel into a compromised path.
Instead, it should strengthen each of them.
Every pillar builds on the one before it. The load is successful not only because it prepares movement, but because it prepares the right movement.
The appearance of a load may vary from hitter to hitter. Some move more. Some move less. Some begin earlier. Others later.
The objective remains the same.
Prepare the body to move explosively while improving everything that comes next.
A load is not extra movement.
It is purposeful preparation.