Hockey training is a year-round process. As the post-season comes to an end, players and coaches begin to think about preparing for next year's season. Off-season hockey workouts play a large role in helping teams to achieve their potential in the following season. Off-season workouts focus on hockey drills as well as strength and conditioning. Off-season workouts help keep players in tip-top shape.
Stair Running
Stair running is a cross-training tool that can be used to keep hockey players mentally and physically sharp during the off-season. Stair running can help to develop leg strength and speed. Players can also participate in stair running outdoors, which provides them with a change of pace from the normal indoor hockey workout. You should visit a local high school or college football stadium or an area of your town with plenty of steps. Try running up and down the stairs in two to four sets of three repetitions. Complete this exercise two times each week. As you progress, you will notice your legs becoming stronger and less fatigued at the end of your workout.
Synthetic Ice Training
Synthetic ice is intended to serve as a substitute for regular ice. It is made of a polymer --- or plastic --- material and can be used with regular ice skates. Synthetic ice creates more friction than regular ice, making skating and maneuvering along the ice more difficult. The friction causes you to have to push harder to move across the ice. Practicing on synthetic ice makes real ice much easier to skate on. Synthetic ice training allows players to improve their skating and puck-handling skills while increasing endurance.
Cardiovascular Exercises
Cardiovascular exercises can help hockey players to maintain or increase their stamina throughout the off-season. This is an ideal time for many hockey players to try a type of exercise of a different sport. Try to participate in two to three sessions of 20 to 40 minute workouts a week, Sports Fitness Advisor recommends. Try running, swimming, cycling, badminton, aerobics or participation in a different sport. To help maintain your interest, participate in a variety of different cardiovascular exercises.
Flexibility Training
Flexibility training during the off-season can help players to alleviate soreness and stiffness caused by intense on and off-season workouts. Flexibility training can also help to loosen ligaments, tendons and muscles. This can help to prevent hockey-related injuries and improve range of motion. Flexibility training should occur for 10 to 15 minutes prior to participating in any other form of training. Static stretching and self-myofascial release can be considered. Static stretching is stretching a muscle to a point of tension and holding it for up to 30 seconds. Self-myofacial release uses a foam roller to help alleviate sore and tender spots in your body.
Member Comments