1. Former College or Pro Athlete

It is important that the trainer have a perspective of what the athlete is going through and all that it takes to get to the next level. It could be any team sport. Just having experience in a college or professional weight room is a major plus.

2. CSCS Certified

The Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) designation is issued by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

3. Has Trained Players That Now Play In College or Pro Ball

This simply shows that the trainer has the experience in helping players achieve their goal of progressing into college or professional ball.

4. Baseball Specific Focus

You shouldn’t see single-rep, max-weight bench presses for baseball players. You’ll see a lot more use of dumbbells instead of the bar for better mobility and stability. The focus will be more on core and lower body strength. Small fiber upper body workouts are the norm with low weight and higher reps. When heavier weights are used, the workout is almost always balanced with flexibility and stretching. Cross-over Symmetry Bands. And the list goes on.

5. Connections With Specialists

• Nutritionist
• Flexibility/Stretching/Yoga Instructor
• Sports Psychologist

6. Running Mechanics

Speed training is critical. Explosive movements are much more important to an everyday player than running three miles. Someone who knows how to tweak your mechanics to generate more power and less resistance will create a more powerful player that can do more things on the field of play.

7. Motivator

This person needs to be a leader and have an upbeat personality. The training is hard. Very hard. Ultimately it is up to the player to get it into another gear, but the coach can have an impact in helping to raise their intensity during the workouts by setting the pace and dictating the types of exercises to get the most out of each workout. The road to success is covered in sweat.