Clayton Kershaw’s 18th-Season Revival Fueled by The Bowl Grip

Clayton Kershaw’s 2025 season feels like a genuine renaissance. After years spent battling back issues and enduring surgeries on his shoulder, foot, and knee, the Dodgers ace has found a new way to keep pitching — and it all comes down to something called the “bowl.”

He’s rethought his training, moving away from heavy, old-school routines. That shift has brought new life to his body and his game, letting him compete at a high level well into his 30s.

The Birth of the “Bowl” Philosophy

Everything changed when Dodgers strength coach Yavarone introduced the “bowl” concept. It focuses on the hips, pelvis, and lower back as one connected unit.

Kershaw used to rely on powerlifting, especially heavy back squats. Sure, it built muscle, but it also wrecked his already sensitive back.

The “bowl” approach put mobility and stability front and center. Kershaw started to see how his core movement patterns affected his pitching health. At first, he was reluctant to ditch the routines that had defined his career.

But eventually, the difference became impossible to ignore.

From Weight Room Warrior to Smart Trainer

Now, instead of maxing out on lifts, Kershaw focuses on isometric holds, targeted mobility drills, and even water-bags for resistance. These unusual methods help him stay strong without crushing his back.

His mechanics stay sharp, but his body doesn’t take the same beating. His hips and core move more easily now, which gives him both protection and a little extra efficiency on the mound.

Results That Can’t Be Ignored

The numbers really do tell the story. At 37, Kershaw has a 9-2 record and a 3.06 ERA through 17 starts.

His velocity isn’t what it was, but his command and pitch sequencing have reached another level. In August, he went 5-0 with a 1.88 ERA—not bad for someone supposedly past his prime.

Pitching Smarter, Not Harder

Kershaw admits he can’t just overpower hitters anymore. Now, he relies on precision, smart sequencing, and reading batters as the game unfolds.

His ability to adapt stands out. Coaches and teammates say it’s been the key to his resurgence. Most veterans stick to what they know, but Kershaw’s willingness to change has made him a blueprint for longevity.

A Healthier, Happier Competitor

The “bowl” approach has done wonders for his daily health. That constant low-back stiffness? Pretty much gone. The nagging aches that used to greet him every morning aren’t a regular thing anymore.

Now, he can focus on competing and winning, not just surviving the grind of a long season.

Key Takeaways from Kershaw’s Revival

Kershaw’s story gives athletes a real-life guide for stretching out their best years.

• Prioritize mobility and stability instead of chasing raw strength. That’s how you protect those joints and muscles that always seem to act up.
• Don’t be afraid to ditch tradition and try new training ideas, even if they sound a little odd at first.
• Remember, command, game planning, and mental grit can make up for what your body loses over time.
• Find coaches and staff who aren’t afraid to call you out or push you to break old habits. It might just save your career.

Kershaw’s 2025 season isn’t just about numbers. It’s honestly a lesson in adapting. He let go of what used to work and grabbed onto what works now. That’s how you stay great—by figuring out how to keep going, not just by being at your best all the time.

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Here is the source article for this story: What’s behind Clayton Kershaw’s pitching revival in his 18th season? ‘The bowl’