Why In-Season Training is Essential for Baseball Players

During the baseball season, it can be tempting to focus solely on games and recovery, but maintaining a solid in-season training routine is critical. Many athletes underestimate how much strength, mobility, and mental sharpness can decline without consistent work during the season. Here’s why continuing your training during the season matters:

1. Maintain Strength and Power

In-season games and travel can make it easy to lose the strength and power you spent months building during the off-season. Without consistent strength training, players often see a drop in velocity, control, and overall power. A smart in-season program helps retain the muscle and explosiveness needed to perform at your peak deep into the season.

2. Prevent Injuries

Pitching, throwing, and fielding take a significant toll on the body, especially as the season grinds on. In-season training, particularly mobility-focused sessions, keeps key areas like the shoulders, hips, and spine strong and flexible. Prioritizing mobility can significantly reduce the risk of common baseball injuries, keeping players healthy and able to contribute to their team all season long.

3. Boost Recovery and Consistency

A well-structured in-season program isn’t just about lifting weights—it’s about helping athletes recover faster so they’re ready to perform each game. Strength work, when combined with mobility and recovery exercises, helps maintain muscle function, improve blood flow, and keep players feeling fresh. Consistency in training leads to consistent on-field performance, even through the long grind of the season.

4. Stay Mentally Sharp

In-season training isn’t just about the physical benefits. A well-rounded routine keeps athletes mentally sharp, focused, and confident. It’s a time to work on maintaining good habits and reinforcing the discipline needed to succeed, especially when the games get tough or fatigue starts to set in. Mental sharpness can make the difference between a solid season and a standout one.

The JT Realmuto Approach: A Model of In-Season Durability
Take a look at JT Realmuto, one of the most durable catchers in Major League Baseball. Catching is one of the most physically demanding positions, requiring constant squatting, blocking, throwing, and hitting. Yet, JT is in the lineup almost every day, catching more games than almost any other player in the league.

So, how does he stay so durable throughout a grueling 162-game season? JT follows a smart, efficient in-season workout plan. Rather than overloading his body, he hits three different exercises for 30 minutes a day. This short but effective routine includes:

Strength exercises to maintain muscle without overtraining.
Mobility work to keep his body moving well.
Recovery exercises focused on keeping his legs and core strong.
By keeping it short and focused, JT avoids fatigue while staying durable and ready to perform every game. His ability to consistently be in the lineup is a testament to how a simple but targeted in-season program can keep athletes at the top of their game.

Engage with Us: Your Thoughts on In-Season Training
Now that you know the benefits, what does your in-season training look like? Have you noticed a drop in performance or endurance as the season wears on? Or maybe you've found a workout routine that keeps you at your best. Share your experience in the comments—let's talk about what works and how to stay strong, healthy, and ready to perform when it matters most.

If you’re curious about how to build your own in-season training plan, reach out to us through DMs. We’d be happy to work with you to develop a personalized program to keep you performing at your best throughout the season.