1. Hold Your Own
Hockey is a fast-paced, high-energy sport that requires both aerobic and strength fitness levels that far exceed many other sports. It's a dangerous sport too. Most professional hockey players don't have any of their own teeth and are constantly being treated for injuries. The game is so fast-paced that each position plays almost like a choreographed dance ensemble when the puck starts flying.
2. Center of the Action
The center player on the five-player team is one of the most critical. The center needs to be adept at quickly switching hats as he plays both offensive and defensive games. The center must be extremely proficient at passing as he is the one who drives the puck to the wingmen for goals. The center has to be fast too and ends up skating more miles than any other player on the team.
3. Skate Fast and True
Ice hockey skaters need to be able to pick up speed quickly. When the center is stopped and receives the puck, he needs to move out of position immediately and begin skating. The player moves while also watching where the other skaters are on the rink, including opposing skaters. When preparing to become a center, a hockey player should work on these fast starts. A lot of energy can be expelled if your initial take-off steps are too small. Use long leg extensions when coming out of a stop and you will find that you have much more endurance for the entire game.
4. Face Time
The center is the player who most likely will stand in when it comes time for a face off. A face off takes play whenever the game is stopped for any reason and the teams need to fight for possession. The game begins with a face off and can determine the tone of the entire playing time. A good center can hold himself still with both skates flat on the ice in preparation for the face off. The referee drops the puck and the center must get a piece of it and send it out to one of his waiting teammates. Being aggressive is helpful in this spot, but the opponent cannot rile the center. It takes a clear head to win a face off.
5. Train During the Off-Season
While indoor rinks offer plenty of ice-time any time of the year and in every part of the country, it is important for hockey players to cross train to maintain an ultimate playing level of fitness. The total body workout is preferable to keep all systems go. By giving parts of the body an occasional rest, you also decrease the chances of stress injury. Muscles and body parts need rest as part of the exercise process.
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