Here's our indispensable guide.

The game
Softball shares many similarities with baseball. It's a nine-a-side game played on a grass diamond, with a batter attempting to hit pitches and get onto base.

The main differences are that the softball is larger than a baseball, and the game is played with a smaller bat. Unlike baseball, the pitcher throws the ball underarm.

Don't be fooled by the name - a softball is anything but soft!

Getting involved
It may be a women only sport at The Olympics, but back here softball is open to everyone.

If you want to have a go or find a club near you, the British Softball Federation is the best place to start.

British Softball Federation
Neil Butterfield - National Development Officer
E-mail: butterfield@baseballsoftballuk.com