Hockey players are famous for their epic endurance when out on the ice. Maintaining peak playing ability for the duration of a game requires often grueling exercise regimens to ensure players remain in top physical condition. The following exercises are just sampling of those used by world-renowned players during workouts.
Stride Like a Skater
Leg strengthening exercises are highly important for hockey players, which results in many routines which focus on the lower body. One such exercise requires looping an elastic band just above your knees and spreading your legs until you can feel tension within the band. Next, step to far to one side before coming back to the lead leg. Remember to keep the elastic band taut to achieve the best results.
Dumbbell Snatch
While leg workouts are certainly essential to hockey players, that doesn’t mean you should neglect other parts of your body. That’s why many hockey players make use of the one-armed dumbbell snatch to boost arm strength. Select a dumbbell and hold it with one hand while taking a stance similar to performing a deadlift. Bring the dumbbell up to chest-level as you straighten your legs, then flip your hand so the dumbbell is now facing the ceiling before raising your arm above your head.
Swiss Ball Ab Workout
Tough ab workouts help boost core strength, which is a vital component of great hockey play. While sitting on a Swiss ball, hold a weight and lean back, making sure to keep your knees at a 90 degree angle. Bring the weight up over your face, then come forward as you raise core off the ball while straightening your arms. To go back to the starting position simply reverse the movement.
Workout Like the Pros
While you may not log many hours on the ice, you can incorporate elements of a strenuous pro hockey workout into your existing fitness regimen. Doing so will afford you that iconic hockey physique capable of standing up to even the most grueling match ups.