A big fan of mixed martial arts, Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette decided to try a traditional combat sport as a new training method during the off-season.
Last autumn, he gave Muay Thai a try and added it to his regular workouts, alongside swimming and Pilates.
“Honestly it’s probably the toughest thing I’ve ever done,” Bichette said. “It was mentally challenging to get through it. But I was fortunate to have a trainer who pushed me really hard.
“I'm not sure if that's the typical experience of a Muay Thai session, but he knew that I wanted to work hard and he really pushed me. So it was tough.”
Muay Thai is a stand-up striking discipline with workouts that usually involve a cardiovascular aspect.
“It involves kicking, punching, everything,” Bichette said. “There was a lot of cardio so it was really hard work, which I enjoyed trying to overcome.”
Bichette began in late November at the suggestion of his trainer. The 25-year-old had always wanted to give it a shot and was quickly convinced.
“I was all in and I loved it,” he said.
Bichette dealt with two injuries last season, including a right quad strain and tendinitis in his right knee. He focused on strengthening his leg and is pleased with his physical condition after training in various ways.
His Muay Thai training also aligned with his passion for the UFC.
“I’ve had some teammates over the years who have been really into it,” he said about the MMA promotion. “I’ve started following it and now I love it. I can’t miss an event.”
Occasionally over the years, UFC stars would visit Rogers Centre before games to watch batting practice and chat with players.
“The only one I’ve ever met was GSP,” Bichette said, referring to legendary Canadian fighter Georges St-Pierre. “I was younger at the time so I didn’t really pick his brain or anything. But there’s probably not many better to meet than him.
“I haven’t talked to any of (the others) but I’m sure they’d have great things to say mentality-wise about overcoming fear because I know I’d be scared walking into that Octagon.”
The Blue Jays will start their regular season on March 28 in Tampa Bay.
This report by The Canadian Press was originally published on March 14, 2024.
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