What is one of the most challenging positions in both baseball and softball? The catcher. Think about it. A catcher has to squat for most of their time on the diamond. They must be able to throw out base runners from the squatting position or on their knees. They are responsible for scouting and developing a strategy for every at-bat and pitch sequence against opposing hitters. A catcher is an on-field general who informs and realigns their teammates against each batter. They must be leaders and selfless for the team's good.
The catcher's role is so crucial that they must possess a high pain threshold to always be on the field. The muscles that catchers use in their position are the glutes, hamstrings, pectorals, and rotator cuffs, to name a few. They must also have enough mobility in their ankle joints to improve and sustain their movements throughout every game.
This is where strength training comes into play. Catchers must maintain the everyday grind of
their position.
Are there any other ways that catchers could improve their overall training? There is one. It is yoga.
More teams could incorporate yoga to help catchers increase their flexibility and mobility to perform at their peak potential. Not only does yoga help create more flexibility and mobility for catchers, but it will also increase focus and concentration. It will raise a more profound awareness and allow a catcher to change strategies in a moment if needed.
Here is a sequence that targets the ankles, hips, hamstrings, and shoulder girdle to assist catchers in performing at their best.
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