When we take a peek at the MLB leaderboards at any time during the year, it’s easy to gravitate towards the names we’re most familiar with. Plus, it’s hard to look past guys like Max Scherzer, Jacob deGrom, Gerrit Cole and others after getting a glimpse of the ridiculous things they’ve been doing on the mound.

One of the most interesting things about baseball, though, is that any hurler can get hot and unexpectedly find themselves on a leaderboard or two. Now that we’re more than a month removed from the 2019 All-Star Game and the second half is officially rolling, there are quite a few pitchers performing well so far — they’re just not the guys who normally grab a ton of headlines along the way. And, even though we might upset a few New York fans, we’re going to steer clear of listing some of the obvious. If you’d like to get stats and odds on those guys, check out New York sportsbooks.

That’s why we’re here, though — to shed some light on those who are getting great results and deserve a little credit for it. The following six hurlers have been performing well enough to be rubbing elbows with some of baseball’s biggest names since the second half began. 

Jack Flaherty, St. Louis Cardinals

An intriguing young arm in the Cardinals rotation, Flaherty was anticipated to take a step forward after posting a 2.4-fWAR campaign in 151 innings last season. His overall statistics in 2019 are on track to do that (2.3 fWAR in 128.1 innings), but it wasn’t without some major first-half issues.

In the 97 innings he accumulated prior to the All-Star break, Flaherty struggled to a 4.64 ERA, 1.86 homers allowed per nine innings (20 total), and a .313 wOBA against. However, in his most recent 31.1 innings (prior to Tuesday’s start), those numbers have improved to 0.86, 0.29 (1), .202, respectively.

He’s managed to improve his WHIP by 0.50 while watching his strikeout-to-walk ratio climb from 18.5% to 28.6%. Flaherty also traded surrendering line drives for more ground balls, but his hard-hit rate allowed is still up over 40.0%.

The right-hander has used his slider slightly more often, but the value of that offering has gone up exponentially. After being valued at -0.15 per 100 pitches in the first half, it’s all the way up at 4.43 per 100 pitches since the midsummer classic.

Reynaldo Lopez, Chicago White Sox

It’s been two different seasons in one upon looking at Reynaldo Lopez’s splits. Entering the All-Star break, the 25-year-old owned a 6.34 ERA and 1.58 WHIP through 98 innings. In the 38 frames that have followed the midsummer classic, those numbers are down to 2.13 and 1.21, respectively. Opposing hitters have watched their wOBA against Lopez drop more than 100 points in the process, too (.376 to .270).

There’s been a clear change in his batted-ball profile, as Lopez is allowing hard contact at just a 28.3% clip (37.8% in first half). That’s helped offset the fact that his line-drive rate allowed has risen from 19.9% to 25.7%, but he’s also seen a six-percentage-point rise in ground-ball rate.

When looking at his pitch value per 100 pitches (via FanGraphs), all four of Lopez’s offerings have improved from the first to the second half of play. This has been helped by significantly decreasing his changeup usage, a pitch that opposing hitters have recorded a 162 wRC+ against this year. His usage of the changeup has gone down about 10 percentage points, with the difference mostly going to his slider (17.6% in first half, 24.8% in second half).

That pitch has produced a 96 opponent wRC+ in 2019, tied with his curveball for the lowest of all offerings in his arsenal.

Cal Quantrill, San Diego Padres

Most of the rookie spotlight in San Diego belongs to Fernando Tatis Jr., and honestly, everybody can understand why. Especially when he makes ridiculous plays like the one he did on Monday night.

But you know what? Cal Quantrill has put together a nice little campaign of his own, even though it won’t make any waves in the National League Rookie of the Year race. Through 16 appearances (11 starts), the right-hander has posted a 5-3 record with a 3.21 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 19.7% strikeout rate, 6.2% walk rate, and 1.0 fWAR while tossing 70 innings.

His 4.55 SIERA shows a bit of concern, which makes sense because he’s allowed hard contact at a 39.8% rate to go along with a 20.8% line-drive rate and just a .266 BABIP.

This solid rookie campaign has been made possible by a ridiculously effective second half, which includes a 0.93 ERA and .207 wOBA against in 29 innings. Although his strikeout rate has gone down a couple percentage points, he’s paired it with improved control — his walk rate has gone from 7.3% in the first half to 4.5% in the second half. However, both his hard-hit rate allowed (40.5%) and fly-ball rate allowed (37.8%) have increased in the second half, but his homers allowed per fly ball rate has dropped from 17.9% to 3.2%.

Yu Darvish, Chicago Cubs

It feels weird putting Yu Darvish on this list, but he’s struggled so much that it seems as if what he’s been doing since the All-Star break has actually gone under the radar a bit.

While one would think it’s difficult to have just a 4-6 record through 24 starts and 132 innings, that’s exactly where the right-hander stands at the moment. His 4.43 season-long ERA doesn’t look all that wonderful, but it could’ve been a lot worse after the kind of first half he had.

Through his first 97 innings, Darvish struggled to a 5.01 ERA and 1.34 WHIP. Since returning from the All-Star break, those numbers have dropped dramatically to 2.83 and 0.77, respectively, in 35 frames. A huge change has come in his strikeout and walk rates. Darvish is whiffing 35.1% of hitters in the second half after posting just a 26.5% clip in the first half. What’s more dramatic of a change is his walk rate: after allowing 11.7% of hitters to reach via the free pass prior to the midsummer classic, that number is all the way down to 1.5% (!) at the moment.

He’s accomplished this by getting ahead in the count much more often. His first-pitch strike rate has risen more than eight percentage points in the second half to 67.9%. That’s been paired with a rise of about nine percentage points in chase rate, bringing that number to 39.3% at the moment.

This is the pitcher the Cubs were hoping they acquired two winters again when Darvish signed a six-year, $126 million contract.

Sports injuries happen – whether it’s due to contact sports incidents or just muscle sprain, intense athletics will often lead to injuries. Sports injuries are a large part of why teams and leagues have to invest in sports insurance. Each sport has different potential liabilities, so insurance packages are typically sold by sport – football insurance, basketball insurance, and so on – to match the needs of each sport. 

While you can’t stop all injuries from happening, there are certain measures you can take as a player, coach, or sports league administrator to reduce the occurrence of injury. Take these preventative steps to reduce sports injuries so that the game can go on as planned.

Warm Up and Cool Down

Before every practice or game, players should warm up with light exercise before getting into the sport itself. Warm up drills physically warm your body up and increase blood flow through your muscles. They also get your heart rate up, helping to prep you for the upcoming workout. Make sure all players warm up for 10 to 15 minutes with light movements that utilize the muscles you’ll use during the sport itself. The same warm up doesn’t work for different sports if different movements or muscle groups are being targeted. 

You should also do cool down exercises after games and practices to stretch out muscles and gradually slow down. Cool down exercises can help your body adjust back to normal and feel out any problem areas or potential injuries from the game. 

Stretch 

Stretching is absolutely vital to prevent injuries. All players should stretch before and after every game and practice to relieve tightness in the muscles and prepare for exercise. Dynamic stretches are the best way to warm up and stretch out muscles before exercise. Dynamic stretches incorporate stretching and movement, and studies have shown that they are significantly more effective in preparing your muscles for the upcoming exercise. Focus on the muscles that you will use during the game or practice. Look for stretches that mimic the muscle movement you’ll be practicing so that the proper muscles are ready. Stretching will improve flexibility, so you can move better while playing sports without pulling or tearing muscles. 

Wear the Appropriate Gear

Wearing the right safety equipment makes a huge difference when it comes to preventing injuries – that’s why most gear was made in the first place. Regardless of what sport you’re playing, there’s probably gear that you’ll need. Every sport requires the right kind of shoes – make sure players wear the proper foot attire for traction and to reduce the chances of foot or ankle injury. 

Depending on what sport you’re playing, there is other equipment like pads, shin guards, mouth guards, and so on. Sports like football require a helmet. If you’re injury prone or have experienced sports injuries before, you may want to take extra steps to prevent further injury. Extra protective gear won’t hurt, and it could be the factor that saves you from another injury. 

Understand the Rules and Risks

Knowing and following the rules of your sport will prevent injuries. Coaches should instruct players on all rules, fouls, and any other regulations of the game. This will not only result in a cleaner game, but it could prevent injuries. Explain to players why certain rules are in place and how they are meant to keep players safe. A rule will likely be followed more closely if players understand that it is for the health of the players on the field. Knowing the risks for injury can help players, coaches, referees, and volunteers to be more vigilant. 

Rest

Humans need rest after intense physical exercise. Even if you’re on a serious training schedule, it is vital to rest after workouts and take rest days in general to let your body recover. Overworking your body will only hurt it in the long run. Take days off to recuperate. Players should also be sure to get ample sleep each night to recover, and stay hydrated. Proper rest can make all the difference, and it will prime your body for the next big game. 

Don’t Play If You’re Hurt

If you’re hurting, don’t play. It can be hard to take yourself out of the game, but if a minor injury springs up or something feels off, it’s better to rest. Pushing through pain could exacerbate the problem and turn your injury into something more serious. It’s better to miss one practice or game to recover rather than push through it and end up hurt for multiple games or even the season. 

Take preventative steps to protect your body from injury when you’re playing sports. Sports injuries can be serious, and could leave you on the bench for the season or even for life. Take care of your body so that you can keep playing and having fun on the field, whatever your sport may be. 

Most individuals, who is playing basketball puts on branded shoes. I guess, this is how they choose a pair to wear when they have a game. Some of them will buy the ones that their favorite basketball celebrities is endorsing. Indeed, it is quite expensive, but they do not mind spending because of the star’s popularity. For them, it is a pleasure to wear such brand and model, especially when it is a limited edition. 

While other basketball players think about the gaming experience and performance. We all know that with this kind of sports, you are required to run, walk and jump a lot. Some of the moves may be fast and the others are moderate. The movements will depend on what type of player you are and your position in the game. 

I supposed, you are aware that any form of injuries must not happen to keep you in the game. Though we cannot also avoid incidents, where you may experience ankle sprains as well as knee or leg injuries. Therefore, to keep the ball rolling, you have to choose the best basketball shoes for ankle support. You may be the best player in your team, but you can never tell what will be happening during the game.

You should know that when you got injured, you will lose the chance of finishing the game. You may end up in the clinic or hospital, depending on how serious the injury is. The sad thing here is that, there are injuries that requires you to rest for months before coming back to your favorite sport. This only shows that you have to be serious in choosing the right pair of shoe that can support your ankle.

Fitting

Since you move a lot, transition is important. If you are a type of individual, who likes putting on shoes with loose fitting, then this is not the right pair to use when playing basketball. You should know that when the fitting is loose, then your ankles have less support. Therefore, this will be a problem that can affect your performance and gaming experience. if possible, the fitting must be able to provide you a comfortable feeling as you are walking, running and jumping throughout the game.And when you jump, the risk of ankle injury is there.

Full High Top

I know that you like putting on low-cut or a three-quarter cut shoe because you find it easy to put on and off, right? However, with this one, you cannot get sufficient support that you need for your ankle. So, I suggest you to choose the ones with a full high top. This is also an ideal option, when you are a post player, where you are always along the basket area. Actually, it’s not just about the position, but if you are going to study the different moves and situations in a basketball game, then you can say that it is, indeed, a good choice to go for a full high top.

Design

When it comes to securing the fit of the shoe on your foot, consider the structure of the laces. Since you are aiming to support the ankles, you will then have to choose the ones with eyelets. Through this, you will be able to tie down the lace across the foot’s bridge. 

Function

Always keep in mind that you are buying a pair of shoe for its optimal function and feature. And that this will help you improve and enhance your performance. Be reminded that the design or appearance is not supposed to be your greatest consideration. Again, if you prefer design rather than function, then it means that this is not for sports. But for collection and other purposes only. 

Flexibility

Why are you buying a pair of shoe for ankle support, anyway? Take a look at the wing players as well as the guards. Do you know that they are prone to the risk, where they may roll their ankle, since you often drive too hard with the aim of reaching the basket to get a score? Sometimes, you suddenly change your action and direction because you have to defend. This may also cause your ankles to an unnatural posture.

Cushioning

Be very sure to choose a comfortable pair of shoes because you always move and run around. Do you know that a padding is necessary because when you land on your foot will prevent you from hurting your ankle? Make sure that the cushioning is also found on the heels and the forefoot as well. This will be very helpful because it will prevent you from hurting your ligaments and experiencing fractures. Now, if you do not like a padding, then you should know that there would be an impact on the arches and heels, too. 

Hey, guys! As Raksha Bandhan is creeping up over again, so it’s time to tell your siblings how much they are special to you. Are you wondering about how will you do that? Well, this article is your answer! Every single person on earth has different choices and preferences. So, it’s really hard to mention the gift for every type of person. This time, we have covered some gift ideas that are perfect to give your siblings who have a great interest in any sports. This Raksha Bandhan, before you shop for rakhi gifts or send rakhi to India online to your childhood companions, read this article thoroughly. In this article, we have listed the best rakhi gifts which are ideal for boosting up the spirit of the sports fan. Present them the below-listed rakhi gifts and take their madness for sports to a new level. 

Football Print Wine Glasses

Say cheers to the one in a million bond of love with your siblings by gifting them a wine glass. The best part about the glass is the football print, which will surely amuse your siblings’ soul in the right manner. You can easily heighten up the joy of the occasion and boost up the sports spirit of your siblings with this amazing gift. Whenever they sip wine in your gifted glass, they will feel blessed to have your presence in their lives. Go on, guys! Try this gifting idea right now!

Ticket to the Favorite Sporting Event

This could be the best gift that will make your siblings jump with great joy. Get them tickets to their favorite sporting event held in your city. They will love watching their favorite sports live. It’s the best way to give them an experience they will never forget. Go and arrange the tickets right now before you miss the excellent chance to make the festival memorable. You can also double the joy related to your gift by pairing it with lovely bracelet rakhi, silver, kundan, pearl rakhi or any other kind of alluring rakhis. Such a lovely present from your side will mark a special place in their hearts. 

Golf mug

Gifting a golf mug is a fantastic gift option to make your sibling feel special on this auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan. For the golf fan who is also a coffee lover, this could be the best-ever gift that you can buy for. You also get a mini-golf ball as well as a small-size putter. During the tedious hours at the office, you can start a round of golf and have a great time. Really, this gift has the power to make a golf fan happy. 

Favorite Player Jerseys

Your sporty freak siblings definitely follow the favorite sports person moves. So, why not this time, let the jersey of their favorite player astonish your siblings on this Rakhi festival? Gifting a jersey is one of the easiest but one of the best gift options you can choose to make your siblings feel special. If in case, they have already one, then you can buy this apparel in different color or style. They will love to wear while cheering up their favorite player. 

Soccer Ball

If your siblings are fond of playing football, then gifting a soccer ball is quite a good idea. Yes! When a person receives the thing that he adores the most in his life, then the whole joy of gifting tends to be increased. When you present your siblings this soccer ball, they will definitely feel how much you care for their choices a lot. 

Bicycle frame size is a parameter that affects the length and height of the frame, i.e. its overall size. As the size of the frame increases or decreases, the upper, lower, and seat tube changes proportionally.

According to this website, by choosing the right standover height of a bike, you will be able to ride it comfortably every day without back/knee pain. When you buy a bicycle for sports or competition, choosing the right frame size is crucial.

There are 3 types of signs: ” (inches), conventional units (XS, S, M, L, XL), and centimeters (cm). The size range of a particular bicycle model is usually either even or odd.

Choosing mountain, city, and hybrid bike sizes

Below is the most popular size chart suitable for choosing most bicycles. Size matches are based on extensive sales experience, as well as being compared with many size charts of bicycle manufacturers. 

Frame size (inches) – Your height (inches) – Frame size (cm) – Frame size (c.u) 

13″-14.5″                     57.08-61.02 33-36                    XS (XSmall)

15″-16″                        62.2-67.71 38-40                     S (Small)

17″-18″                        66.14-71.65 43-47                     M (Meduim)

19″-20″                        70.07-74.8 48-52                     L (Large) 

21″-22″                        74-78.74 55-58                     XL (XLarge) 

23″-24″                        78.74-82.67 59-62                     XXL (Maximum)

• Mountain bikes. When choosing hardtails, you can safely use this chart. There are rare exceptions such as Gary Fisher’s models that are longer in the base than most other bikes. Keep this in mind if you’re going to ride more than do sports. Dual frame suspensions are often only available in 2-3 sizes.
• City bikes (comfortable models). If you’re in transition height, such as 70″ or 65″, note the presence of a suspension seatpost. It does not allow the saddle to be fully lowered into the frame, as it can be done on all mountain bikes. Therefore, with the height of 70″ it is better to take a bike with an 18″ frame than with 20″, and with the height of 65″ you will feel more comfortable on a 16″ frame than 18″. 
• Cruisers. Keep it simple when deciding on a standover height of a cruiser – these models have only 1 or 2 of them. Cruisers are usually designed for an average woman (61-70″) and a man (67-75″). If you have any doubts, ask a salesman.
• Hybrids. Here it’s the same thing as with comfortable city bikes (shock-absorbing seat pins).

Choosing city and road bikes sizes (including Giant Compact Road™)

When choosing a road bike, I suggest you use the chart taken from the original catalog of bicycles Giant 2011 – 2012. All road and city bikes are available with Compact Road geometry.

Frame size – Cyclist’s height – Frame size (Giant Compact Road) – Frame length (seat/top)

19.29-20.07 61.8-64.17 XS 16.53 / 20.47

20.07-21.26 64.17-66.9 S 17.32 / 21.06

21.65-22.44 66.9-70 M 19.68 / 21.85

22.44-23.22 70-72.04 M/L 21.06 / 22.44

22.83-23.62 72.04-74.8 L 21.85 / 23.03

24-24.8 74.8-77.95 XL 23.03 / 24.01

Choosing folding bike sizes (Author, Giant, Shulz, Strida, etc.)

Most folding bikes are available in one size designed for the average person height from 61” to 73”.

Bike model – Optimal height

Author Simplex – 59.05-76.77

Shulz Easy – 59.05-72.83

Shulz Goa-3 – 61.02-72.83

Giant Expressway 1 и 2 – 61.02-72.83

Giant Halfway – 63-70.87

Giant Subway – 63-70.86

Strida LT, 5.2, SX, SD – 60.23-75.98

Choosing children’s bike sizes

All children’s bicycles are divided according to age and height. There is now a great deal of confusion on the Internet between bike sizes and children’s age. Therefore, I have taken this issue seriously and came up with a detailed size chart.

Child’s age (y/o) – Height (inches) – Wheel diameter (inches)

      1 – 3         29.52 to 37.4       < 12″

      3 – 4         33.46 to 39.37         12″

      4 – 6         39.37 to 47.24         16″

      6 – 9         45.27 to 53.14         20″

      9 – 13                 51.18 to 61.02         24″

The height and size of bicycle wheels were not just made up out of nowhere. In preparing this chart, the classifications of kids bike manufacturers themselves have been studied, as well as height charts for kids from 1 to 15 y/o. If your child grows slower or faster than the average, you can buy a smaller or larger bicycle, respectively. There is nothing wrong with this.

Choosing BMX bike sizes

A standover height for these stunt bikes is the length of the upper frame tube (top tube, TT). Choosing BMX is very individual and subjective. Someone likes to ride on short frames, someone prefers long. To determine how convenient it will be exactly for you, it is best to take a ride on friends’ or acquaintances’ bike. In the case of Giant’s BMX, the situation is like this: cheaper models are equipped with frames with a smaller standover height (on the prospect of that teenagers are basically buying inexpensive models). In other cases, I suggest using the chart (the accuracy of the information is not guaranteed!).

Your height Frame size

55.12-59.05 19.5″

59.05-66.92 20.0″

66.93-70.86 20.5″

70.86-74.8 21.0″

General recommendations and FAQ

What else do you need to consider when choosing from two suitable size options?

• Assumed style of riding. For active and extreme riding it is better to choose a smaller bike – a bigger reserve of centimeters above the frame will give you confidence, and the bicycle will be more vivid. For a quiet ride through the city and parks, you can opt for the perfect fit.
• Body build. If you have a slim or average shape, choose a large bike size. If you quite a large person, it is better to take a smaller size – it will be easier to sit, get off, and ride. 
• Useful adjustments. You can always change your position by adjusting the mtb saddle height and handlebar tilt (not available on all models). On mountain bikes, the stem is most often non-adjustable – a safety standard used on bikes designed for active riding. In this case, a longer / shorter / higher / lower stem can be purchased, which is an absolutely normal experience.

FAQ

Question: I’m 5’7″. Which bike size should I take, 16″ or 18″?

Answer: Choose according to your physique and intended style of riding. In most cases, it is better to take 18″.

Question: What if I have short arms or legs?

Answer: Take a smaller size, as the bike will be slightly lower and shorter. If you have short hands, you need to buy the shortest possible stem for your bike. If your legs are short, then lower the saddle at a minimum.

Question: What to do if I have long arms or legs?

Answer: Go for a bigger size. If you have long arms, get a long handlebar stem. If it’s your legs – raise your seat higher.

Question: Why do some bikes have a large range of sizes (from XS to XL), while others have only 2 or 3 sizes?

Answer: A wide size range is usually available for sports bikes, e.g. mountain and road bikes. For a cyclist, it’s important to choose a suitable standover height. But urban bikes usually have 1-3 variants of frame size, designed for a typical person height. Usually, it goes like this: if your height is up to 65″, then it’s “S”; from 65″ to 70.8″ – M; over 71″ – L.

AWS Certified Developer – Associate is an industry recognized certification that has a huge potential to grow an individual’s career. The credential is designed to validate the technical skills and expertise of a candidate. To earn this Amazon certificate, the students are required to go through the exam process. The test is aimed at those who have the skills and knowledge needed to perform in a development role and who possess at least one-year hands-on experience in the development and maintenance of an AWS-based application. The certification validates that the applicants have demonstrated a good understanding of core AWS services. It also certifies that one has proficiency in the deployment, development, and debugging of Cloud-based applications with the use of Amazon AWS Certified Developer – Associate.

Overview of Required Knowledge for Certification

AWS Certified Developer – Associate validates the ability of candidates to design and maintain the AWS applications. The credential is designed for the software developers with a minimum of one-year experience in designing and maintaining an application on the AWS platform. There are some specific skills and knowledge that the students pursuing this Amazon certificate are required to have before they can be awarded it. The individuals must have an in-depth knowledge of a minimum of one high-level programming language. They are also required to have a good understanding of core AWS services, their uses, as well as fundamental AWS architecture best practices. A high level of proficiency in debugging the Cloud-based apps with the use of AWS is also a strong requirement.

The applicants must also be able to utilize the AWS service APIs, SDKs, and AWS CLI to write an application. They should also possess the ability to identify core features of AWS services. The candidates must also be able to understand the AWS shared responsibility model and application lifecycle management. To pursue the Amazon AWS Certified Developer – Associate certificate, one must also have the ability to utilize the CI/CD pipeline to implement apps on AWS. Additionally, they should be able to use and interact with AWS services, apply basic understanding of the Cloud native applications to write code, and code using the AWS security best practices, such as not utilizing secret and access keys in code but applying the IAM roles. The examinees must be able to author, debug, and maintain code models on AWS, as well as possess proficiency in a writing code for the server-less applications. In addition, the test takers should have a good understanding of the usage of containers in the design process.

Highlights of Certification Exam

To earn Amazon AWS Certified Developer – Associate, the candidates are required to pass the certification exam. There are different ways to prepare for the test but the best preparation method is to have hands-on experience. It is recommended that the students have at least one year of experience with AWS before attempting the exam. PrepAway also offers many resources that will equip the applicants for success. You might want to go through the website to review all the tools available for your exam preparation.

The Amazon AWS Certified Developer – Associate certification exam is made up of multiple- choice questions. The time duration allotted to the completion of the test is 130 minutes, and the examinees have the opportunity to take it in English, Korean, Simplified Chinese, and Japanese. The exam fee is $150. However, you should check the certification page to be sure that the price is the same as what is applicable to your country.

Top Reasons to Get Certification

Businesses use AWS Cloud computing solutions for different needs. This includes big data analytics and storage, web and application hosting, custom projects in budding IT areas, such as IoT, disaster recovery and backup, etc. Those companies that have integrated AWS solutions successfully understand the benefits associated with them, including cost savings, tighter security, increased efficiency, easier scalability, and greater speed. Apart from the benefits that come to the organizations, there are also many advantages that accrue to the specialists withthe Amazon AWS Certified Developer –Associate certification.

The certificate validates the professionals’ knowledge and skills in the paramount Cloud computing platform. It also guarantees an increased salary potential as the certification is one of the best paying Information Technology credentials across the world. With AWS Certified Developer – Associate, you can expect to be called for more interviews for the position of a Cloud specialist, and of course, a higher salary when hired. This Amazon certification is industry recognized and respected. By earning the certificate, you demonstrate your credibility and commitment to the Cloud computing career path, which is something that the employers are looking for. It also offers access to a wide network of the AWS-thought leaders and like-minded professionals.

Certification Lifecycle and Recertification

Those candidates who pass the certification exam will be awarded the AWS Certified Developer – Associate credential. It is crucial to know that the certificate has a lifecycle and must be renewed to maintain its validity. This Amazon certification is valid for a period of two years, after which the students are expected to recertify. This is a short lifecycle, especially when compared to some other IT certificates. However, the industry is fast-paced, and Amazon is regularly adding services and new features to AWS in order to stay ahead of the fast evolving and growing Cloud market. The recertification process involves either taking the test of your current certification level at a reduced cost or advancing to a higher level in the AWS certification program.

Conclusion

The Amazon AWS Certified Developer – Associate credential is worth the investment you made, including finances and time. To ensure you have achieved your desired goal at your first attempt of the exam, it is recommended that you go through the study resources and be well equipped for the test. You should also go through the PrepAway website to explore the prep tools available to increase your success potential at the certification exam.

AWS Certified Developer – Associate is an industry recognized certification that has a huge potential to grow an individual’s career. The credential is designed to validate the technical skills and expertise of a candidate. To earn this Amazon certificate, the students are required to go through the exam process. The test is aimed at those who have the skills and knowledge needed to perform in a development role and who possess at least one-year hands-on experience in the development and maintenance of an AWS-based application. The certification validates that the applicants have demonstrated a good understanding of core AWS services. It also certifies that one has proficiency in the deployment, development, and debugging of Cloud-based applications with the use of Amazon AWS Certified Developer – Associate.

Overview of Required Knowledge for Certification

AWS Certified Developer – Associate validates the ability of candidates to design and maintain the AWS applications. The credential is designed for the software developers with a minimum of one-year experience in designing and maintaining an application on the AWS platform. There are some specific skills and knowledge that the students pursuing this Amazon certificate are required to have before they can be awarded it. The individuals must have an in-depth knowledge of a minimum of one high-level programming language. They are also required to have a good understanding of core AWS services, their uses, as well as fundamental AWS architecture best practices. A high level of proficiency in debugging the Cloud-based apps with the use of AWS is also a strong requirement.

The applicants must also be able to utilize the AWS service APIs, SDKs, and AWS CLI to write an application. They should also possess the ability to identify core features of AWS services. The candidates must also be able to understand the AWS shared responsibility model and application lifecycle management. To pursue the Amazon AWS Certified Developer – Associate certificate, one must also have the ability to utilize the CI/CD pipeline to implement apps on AWS. Additionally, they should be able to use and interact with AWS services, apply basic understanding of the Cloud native applications to write code, and code using the AWS security best practices, such as not utilizing secret and access keys in code but applying the IAM roles. The examinees must be able to author, debug, and maintain code models on AWS, as well as possess proficiency in a writing code for the server-less applications. In addition, the test takers should have a good understanding of the usage of containers in the design process.

Highlights of Certification Exam

To earn Amazon AWS Certified Developer – Associate, the candidates are required to pass the certification exam. There are different ways to prepare for the test but the best preparation method is to have hands-on experience. It is recommended that the students have at least one year of experience with AWS before attempting the exam. PrepAway also offers many resources that will equip the applicants for success. You might want to go through the website to review all the tools available for your exam preparation.

The Amazon AWS Certified Developer – Associate certification exam is made up of multiple- choice questions. The time duration allotted to the completion of the test is 130 minutes, and the examinees have the opportunity to take it in English, Korean, Simplified Chinese, and Japanese. The exam fee is $150. However, you should check the certification page to be sure that the price is the same as what is applicable to your country.

Top Reasons to Get Certification

Businesses use AWS Cloud computing solutions for different needs. This includes big data analytics and storage, web and application hosting, custom projects in budding IT areas, such as IoT, disaster recovery and backup, etc. Those companies that have integrated AWS solutions successfully understand the benefits associated with them, including cost savings, tighter security, increased efficiency, easier scalability, and greater speed. Apart from the benefits that come to the organizations, there are also many advantages that accrue to the specialists withthe Amazon AWS Certified Developer –Associate certification.

The certificate validates the professionals’ knowledge and skills in the paramount Cloud computing platform. It also guarantees an increased salary potential as the certification is one of the best paying Information Technology credentials across the world. With AWS Certified Developer – Associate, you can expect to be called for more interviews for the position of a Cloud specialist, and of course, a higher salary when hired. This Amazon certification is industry recognized and respected. By earning the certificate, you demonstrate your credibility and commitment to the Cloud computing career path, which is something that the employers are looking for. It also offers access to a wide network of the AWS-thought leaders and like-minded professionals.

Certification Lifecycle and Recertification

Those candidates who pass the certification exam will be awarded the AWS Certified Developer – Associate credential. It is crucial to know that the certificate has a lifecycle and must be renewed to maintain its validity. This Amazon certification is valid for a period of two years, after which the students are expected to recertify. This is a short lifecycle, especially when compared to some other IT certificates. However, the industry is fast-paced, and Amazon is regularly adding services and new features to AWS in order to stay ahead of the fast evolving and growing Cloud market. The recertification process involves either taking the test of your current certification level at a reduced cost or advancing to a higher level in the AWS certification program.

Conclusion

The Amazon AWS Certified Developer – Associate credential is worth the investment you made, including finances and time. To ensure you have achieved your desired goal at your first attempt of the exam, it is recommended that you go through the study resources and be well equipped for the test. You should also go through the PrepAway website to explore the prep tools available to increase your success potential at the certification exam.

Mobile betting is getting increasingly popular everyday. And fantasy sports app delivers a platform on which anyone above the legal adulthood threshold can bet in a legal and hassle-free environment. These apps witness an increase in their popularity at the beginning and during the sports seasons. Its fun as the users compete with each other based on the performance of the players they chose to be on their team. Users create their dream team, make trades and play the role of the manager of these virtual teams. Just sit back and bet from home as you chill watching the game. Here are some of the most popular fantasy sports apps.

CBS Fantasy Sports

CBS Sports fantasy is one of few apps which caters all the information one can require to create a dream team such as live and mock drafts, season projections for each player, player news, draft help, and more. It has fantasy baseball, basketball, football and hockey.

Draft Punk

Draft Punk only has Fantasy Football. It is a no-brainer for any football fan. It lets the users do mock drafts, track any player from an array of 1000 footballers and much more. This app sources data from all kinds of places.

Draft Wizard

Draft Wizard is one of the most popular fantasy football apps. It let its players to do mock drafts and contains info on almost all the players. It is compatible with many platforms which include Yahoo, CBS, NFL.com, MyFantasyLeague, RT Sports, Fantrax, and NFFC. The developers also have a fantasy app for baseball as well.

FanDuel

FanDuel lets you bet your fantasy team against everyone else’s in a winner takes all match. You can set up a private league to bet against your friends only or join a public league. The FanDuel collects the money and awards it to the winners. It has fantasy NFL, NBA, Soccer, NASCAR, Golf, CFB, NHL and MLB. You can place safe bets up to $500. 

ESPN Fantasy sports.

App launched by the biggest sports channel as the name suggests, ESPN fantasy sports is probably the most popular app on this list. It features many sports. Players can join public leagues or create one of their own private league. It lets you do mock drafts and comes with lots of more features like Material Design, player rankings, projections and more. You can even make it send you emails to track your progress. 

DraftKings

You might have heard of this one before. It has expensive paid leagues which while burning a hole in your pocket might award you with a lot of money. It supports all the major sports like basketball, golf, baseball, soccer, football, hockey, and even Nascar, MMA, and CFL. It also has a free game that anyone can play as well as paid.

Yahoo Fantasy sports

It is yet another popular fantasy sports app. It covers most of the sports and includes hockey, football, baseball, and basketball. It let its players to play in public as well as in private league which players make themselves. It also offers daily leagues and tournaments and more to keep players engaged.

RealFevr 

RealFevr is another fantasy football app for football fans. Its has many leagues and event and even featured this year’s World cup. It gives a salary-cap model, prizes, playoffs, and multi-platform support to its players and its entirely free. However individual leagues are more preferred which provides a better experience for a specific league.

These are the best and most reliable fantasy sports apps on which you can safely bet at home and enjoy the sports at the same time. Pick any of them which suits you and start, create a rooster and jump in the game yourself.

Learning how to hold a bowling ball is the first step towards being a successful bowler, and the most common way to get started is learning the conventional grip. After this, you can now find the ideal w eight that will comfortably allow you to either throw straight or hook. 

A typical bowling ball has three holes; two side-by-side, and the third below the two. You want to place the middle and ring fingers in the two on the side, and then your thumb in the other one that is below them. This grip not only reduces the likelihood of accidents, but it also stabilizes the ball. You will have lots of control on it. You want to have the fingers as deep as they can go – preferably to the second knuckle joint of each finger – especially when you are a beginner. 

How do you know the ball is the right fit? You will fell the grip when you insert your fingers. You do not want them too loose or too tight, as that would be uncomfortable. If you have your ball made for you, then you will have even better control as the holes will be drilled to fit perfectly. 

Throwing the Ball

Some newbie bowlers hold the ball with their fingers – as they have gripped it – and then head off to throw. Well, this could strain the fingers as most bowling balls are heavy, and so you want to cradle it with your free hand as you get ready to throw. This boost takes pressure off the fingers and stabilizes you before you throw.Will do!On it nowAny deadline?

When releasing the ball, it is advisable to let the thumb go a split second before the rest of the fingers for the perfect motion. Your grip should not be too tight as it will prevent you from having the ideal throw if it is. The ball should slid easily off your fingers. It may be a little hard to master if you are a novice, but you will develop your technique over time.

YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoOs4mVwQqM

How to Find the Ideal Bowling Ball for you?

After you have gotten your grip right, you now want to know how to find the right bowling ball for you as it will dramatically change your game. Two of the main things to look out for are weight and coverstock. 

• Weight of the Ball

You best weight is the one you can handle comfortably, and so the basic rule is to go for 10% of your body weight. The heaviest in the house usually weighs 16lbs, and it is what many pros use. You don’t have to start that heavy if you are a beginner as you can work your way up later in your game. 10% your body weight is sufficient for starters. 

• Coverstock

If you are having a bowling ball custom-made for you, then you want to consider its outer material which determines the way it rolls on the surface. There are usually three types; polyester – basically plastic, urethane, and reactive resin. Plastic covers the cheapest of the lot and so almost every house ball is made out of this, but they are mostly ideal for throwing straight. Reactive resin and urethane are costlier, but they also have good hook potential. 

Dou you need a Custom-made Ball to get the Right Grip?

While your own ball would be ideal as the holes are cut to fit your fingers perfectly, you can always work with a house ball. As you perfect your skills and maybe decide to do this on a regular basis, then you can then have one made to fit perfectly.