“No more, no less, I want to find my true self.”
It is said that heaven helps those who strive for themselves. Everyone goes through unexpected storms. What matters is how you overcome it. Infielder Choi Joo-hwan (35, SSG) is having a busy winter. We are moving according to a tight schedule. Weight training is basic. On top of that, I even mastered land PT, which can be a bit unfamiliar. They are jumping higher and higher than ever before. When asked if it was difficult, Choi Joo-hwan said, “It’s fun. I hope it becomes a new turning point,” he raised his voice.
◆ Regret, a new driving force
The last two seasons were somewhat disappointing for Choi Joo-hwan. Ahead of the 2021 season, he joined SSG through free agency (FA), but was not satisfied. In particular, the 2022 season suffered a strange slump. There were multiple reasons, including injuries. A typical example is the drastic drop in male hormone levels in the aftermath of the novel coronavirus infection (Corona 19). The chronic hamstring also came continuously. He used all kinds of methods. In the second half, he gradually found his place, but he could not erase the question marks that filled his head. 스포츠토토
A fundamental solution was needed. Although he is an 18-year veteran, he boldly sought a change. After the regular season last year, I inquired about various places. Then, I confirmed that a new onshore PT center was opened in Songdo, Incheon. The full-scale training began after the Korean Series (KS). There were many similarities with the program when I had good results during my time at Doosan. Step up every 2 weeks. Choi Joo-hwan said, “It is a challenge for me as well. Above all, I wanted to stick to the basics.”
◆ Challenging, breaking prejudices,
and creating synergy with existing weight training. As it was a high-intensity training, there was an immediate response. Even the people around you know right away. I lost more than 6kg right away. On the other hand, the muscle mass increased even more. Agility and flexibility were also noticeably improved. As soon as I confirmed the numerical change, I gained confidence. From bat speed to defensive range, running base play, etc., it seems that we can expect achievements across the ball, defense, and week. Choi Joo-hwan said, “It was fresh because I used muscles I didn’t normally use.”
In baseball, we usually talk about 5 tools. It refers to the five physical abilities required of a beast. These are power (slugging), speed (running), contact (hitting accuracy), defense (speed, handling), and shoulder (throwing ability). Among them, speed is known to be most vulnerable to the aging curve. If Joo-Hwan Choi, in his mid-30s, can improve through his workouts, it could be of great help to others as well. Choi Joo-hwan said, “I’m also curious about what I will look like.”
◆ Resurrection, back to its original form
Of course, there is no right answer. I didn’t start with a specific goal from the beginning. The important thing is that it was put into direct action. Choi Joo-hwan said, “The thing I hate the most is making a conclusion without trying. I don’t think it’s too late to try and judge. If you reduce your exercise amount just because you’re getting older and draw a line saying no, nothing will change.” He said, “I think it remains only to prove it with results. Rather than wanting to show something, I want to go back to my original self.”