Kiké Hernández Gets Real: The Grinding Reality of Staying MLB-Ready at 34

For many, turning 30 ushers in a new era of self-awareness. For professional athletes like Major League Baseball's Kiké Hernández, it marks the beginning of an entirely different game – one played against the clock, metabolism, and the relentless demands of peak performance. Now 34 and back with the Los Angeles Dodgers for spring training, Hernández isn't shying away from the candid truth: maintaining his elite physique is a battle he fights daily, and it's tougher than ever.

“It's a battle,” Hernández admitted exclusively to Us Weekly, reflecting on how his approach to fitness has drastically evolved since his younger days.

While once he might have enjoyed a bit more leeway with his diet and training, those days are long gone. The rigorous discipline required to compete at the highest level intensifies with each passing year, demanding a near-sacrificial commitment to his body.

The biggest shift? His diet. Hernández, known for his infectious energy on the field, revealed a stark reality: “I don’t eat anything!” he quipped, a testament to his incredibly strict regimen.

Forget the casual indulgences; his plate is now a meticulously curated selection of lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and healthy fats. It's a far cry from the burgers, pizzas, and French fries he once enjoyed and still misses dearly. “The things I miss are the normal foods. Now I have to pick and choose when to have that cheat meal, which is very rare,” he explained, highlighting the constant deprivation required to stay game-ready.

His workout routine is equally unforgiving.

Hernández is hitting the gym with an intensity that would humble most, working out five to six times a week, often with double sessions. The focus isn't just on raw strength anymore; it’s about strategic, targeted training to maintain agility, prevent injury, and ensure every muscle is primed for the explosive movements of baseball.

This level of dedication extends even to days off, where he might still find himself doing cardio to keep his body in tune.

Beyond the physical grind, Hernández is also a devoted family man. He and his wife, Mariana, share two daughters, Penélope and Isabella, who often accompany him to the field.

He cherishes the opportunity to share his passion for baseball with them, teaching them about the sport and showing them the intricacies of his life's work. “My older one, she’s already a baseball fan,” he proudly shared, emphasizing how important it is for him to involve them in his journey.

This relentless pursuit of fitness isn't just about winning games; it’s about longevity.

Hernández harbors a strong desire to play as long as his body allows, fueled by his love for the sport and the competitive fire within him. As he gears up for another demanding MLB season, his journey serves as a powerful reminder that behind every dazzling play and athletic feat lies years of unwavering commitment, sacrifice, and the often-unseen battle to defy the natural effects of time.