NOTE: Make sure batters weight is balanced and not leaning forward or backward or she will take unnecessary steps to regain his or her balance before running for the ball. Also, watch the right arm and elbow (right handed batters). The proper movement is to drive the elbow back and outside the hip to initiate the running sequence. Finally, watch the "bat" to make sure he or she does not "whip" the bat back to the right side and then run. The "bat" should be dropped by the left hand after the right hand has released it.
This drill teaches two things. The first is to get out of the batters box quickly and the least amount of steps and wasted movement. The second thing it teaches is to hit the ball and run. NOT TO "hit the ball, admire your hit and then saunter to first base".