What Do the Best Do Differently?

I hear all the time is: What sets the best of the best apart? What distinguishes the guys at the top of their careers—whether it’s at the professional level or just achieving their highest potential—from those who fall short or plateau?

The answer, consistently, is routine. The top performers have rock-solid routines they follow religiously. These routines aren’t just about what they do before and after their performance—they’re about preparing, recovering, and building durability day in and day out.

Pre-Performance Routine

Before throwing, these athletes focus on activities that prepare their bodies for optimal performance. This might include:

• Soft tissue work

• Mobility exercises

• Pre-throw band work

• Arm care

• Full-body warm-ups

These steps ensure they’re physically ready to give their best when it’s time to perform.

Post-Performance Routine

Equally important is what happens after their session. Recovery activities help them bounce back faster, often within 24 to 48 hours. This can include:

• Recovery techniques

• Restoration exercises

• Strength training and conditioning

By doing this, they’re not just recovering—they’re also building their resilience and improving their performance over time.

Day-by-Day Consistency

What separates the elite is their commitment to these routines every single day. For pitchers, for example, this might mean throwing off the mound only twice a week. On non-throwing days, they focus on recovery and development. After throwing, they engage in recovery strategies to ensure they’re ready to go again.

Position players, similarly, stick to routines that blend arm care, long-toss sessions, and strength training. They map out their week with precision, balancing high-intensity activities with restoration to stay at peak performance.

Why It Matters

Top athletes don’t just follow routines—they depend on them. Their bodies are finely tuned to these activities, ensuring they’re always prepared for the next challenge. When they miss a step, they feel it. This commitment helps them not only perform at their best but also continually improve.

If you’re looking to develop your own routine or refine what you’re already doing, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d be happy to help you take your performance to the next level!

Thanks for tuning in, and I’ll catch you next time!

If you need help developing your routine, Athlete's Development Solutions does a great job outlining a pitcher's routine he should go through with their Pitcher Performance and Durability Plan. Check it out!

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me at: [email protected]