Why Rest Is Just as Important as Training for Young Pitchers
Many young pitchers focus on throwing more and training harder, but rest and recovery are just as critical for long-term success. Dr. Jason Zaremski explains why structured downtime is essential for preventing overuse injuries, how improper recovery leads to breakdowns, and what players, parents, and coaches need to know about balancing training with rest.
INJURY PREVENTION & PERFORMANCE BUILDING STRONGER ATHLETES
Coach Leo Young
4/4/20252 min read
Why Rest Is Just as Important as Training for Young Pitchers
In the pursuit of higher velocity and better performance, many young pitchers believe they need to train constantly. But without proper rest, their bodies never fully recover, increasing the risk of injury. Dr. Jason Zaremski explains why recovery is a crucial part of player development and how neglecting it can lead to serious long-term problems.
Do young pitchers train too much without enough recovery? Share your thoughts in the comments of the video.
The Dangers of Overtraining Without Proper Rest
Many young athletes feel pressure to keep throwing, even when their bodies need a break. Common mistakes include:
Throwing year-round without downtime – Continuous stress on the arm leads to overuse injuries.
Ignoring pain or discomfort – Rest is needed to recover from minor issues before they become major.
Skipping active recovery – Simply taking time off without proper movement and care can lead to stiffness and mechanical issues.
Pushing through fatigue – When pitchers are tired, their mechanics break down, increasing injury risk.
Dr. Zaremski stresses that more throwing doesn’t always mean better performance—without recovery, pitchers are more likely to break down.
How to Build Smart Recovery Into a Pitching Program
To maximize performance and reduce injury risks, young pitchers should:
Take time off from throwing – Scheduled breaks each year help the body rebuild.
Incorporate active recovery – Mobility work, stretching, and light movement improve long-term durability.
Focus on sleep and nutrition – Proper rest and fueling are key components of arm care.
Listen to the body – If pain lingers, players should reduce throwing volume and prioritize rehab.
Learn More About Sore to Soaring
At Sore to Soaring, we help young athletes train smarter, ensuring they balance hard work with proper recovery to stay healthy and maximize performance.
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Disclaimer:
The views shared are those of the guest and do not represent an endorsement by Lupos Initiative Inc., DBA Sore to Soaring. This content is for informational purposes only and not medical or training advice. Always consult a qualified professional before starting any exercise or throwing program. No affiliation or compensation exists between Sore to Soaring and any for-profit entity mentioned.
If you wish to learn more about Dr. Zaremski’s work, visit:UFHealth.org.
#Baseball #PitchingRecovery #ThrowingHealth #InjuryPrevention #ArmCare #SoreToSoaring
