Chicago Cubs’ Marlon Byrd all set for new season – MLB News
The Chicago Cubs’ outfielder Marlon Byrd is experimenting new approaches in order to prepared himself for the new season. His offseason preparations involved rigorous training, chief among which is Muay Thai; which is an extension of a martial arts workout.
Having a batting average of .281 in his career with 81 home-runs, the outfielder is expected to give defensive strength to the Chicago Cubs. He has a history of injuries which severely impacted his career.
Nonetheless, his recent workouts have not only been miraculously effective for his injuries, but also for his health. Reports’ trickling in has indicated that he spent a considerably long time on shedding some weight as well.
The Muay Thai practice will be one of the innovative strategies to be employed by any player. In a way, he will be the first to introduce it. From jumping rope to sparring in the ring and from kicking to punching, the said workout has produced desirable
results for the player.
"I wanted a change of pace," said Byrd, who spent the winter in Chicago. "I did the boxing and I wanted to throw the kicks in. I heard about 'Muay Thai' training and I thought it was very intense."
The rigor that is required for the practice session not only toughens the body, but also helps shed a lot of calories, helping reduce weight. Byrd says he loves it.
"Guys in the game are using this to get in shape," Byrd said of martial arts. "I don't know how many guys are taking it to this level but I love it."
Robert Cole, who happens to be an instructor at L.A. Boxing in Chicago and a retired national champion from England explains the unconventional use of it. "If you look at throwing a punch or a kick, it's the same [as baseball]," Cole said. "You have to turn
your whole body.”
With the practice he has undergone so far, the outfielder wants and expects to play all 162 games of the season. If the team makes their way into the playoffs, it will be a rare opportunity for him to show his brilliance.
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