Baseball: Why So Many Records Have Fallen
Hey San Antonio,
So, here’s an article that really has nothing to do with losing fat or changing the body! I’m a huge sports fan, and in today’s environment, any sports conversation usually turns to anabolic steroids. Here are the reasons why I think the numbers of the game have changed. I’m not so quickly to say “STEROIDS” when someone hits a mammoth home run. While I do think steroids and human growth hormone do have benefits in baseball (note: I’m NOT for their use, but they definitely help players), it isn’t why most think. I don’t think it’s turning anyone into a power hitter that isn’t already a power hitter. I do, however, think that they help players avoid tiring later in the season, thus, keeping levels of performance higher for longer.
1. Baseball is now a business. Look at the contracts of current players. In the 70s, few players made enough to live solely off of baseball. Most of them reported to spring training in terrible shape, thus, reducing performance.
2. Training, nutrition, recovery. The big three have evolved, and now players understand the importance of staying in shape all year around. Stadiums have state of the art training facilities and teams have chiropractors and massage therapists on staff.
3. Expansion. Baseball went from 26 to 32 teams in about 10 years, spreading talent (especially at pitcher) thin. Oh yeah, the inflated numbers in Denver don’t hurt.
4. Equipment. Science has gone a long way in increasing the efficiency of bats and clothing.
5. Kids have coaches at 8 years old. I’ve had people hire me to train their young kids to get them ready for the big time. These kids are already on diets, playing year round, have pitching and hitting coaches and are basically groomed to play sports.
6. Defense is an after-thought. Now players focus a lot more on offense and not the all around game. Remember the Nike ad? “Chicks Dig the Long Ball…”
7. Anabolic steroids and human growth hormone. Don’t think for one second they’re out of the game. They’re being concealed better – and don’t think that only the hulking players were/are using. As mentioned, it keeps the guys healthy and allows them to perform better longer.
I put #7 where it is for a reason, because I think the other things above it have a greater effect than the drugs. Congress needs to focus attention on HIGH SCHOOLS. Sure, clean up professional baseball, but the problem starts WAY before that level.
It’s Monday – no better day to hit the weights hard!
Boyd Myers
Personal Trainer in San Antonio
Owner, Personal Fitness Revolution
16613 Huebner Road
210.391.1454
