Preparing for the upcoming season

We notice a trend when looking at the traits of athletes who enter the coming season on a high note.  For these athletes there is no off-season.  They are active and functional all year round.  For hockey players, continuing to skate a few days a week in the off-season is crucial to maintain form and the feel of the ice.  However, it is also important to participate in other sports that provide agility, balance, and mental recharge.  For hockey players that might be soccer, football, lacrosse, swimming, martial arts, etc. There are no restrictions.  

Being athletic usually means being agile. When we look at the best players out there, we notice that they are quick in making decisions and changing direction.  Off-ice training is extremely important in developing this agility.  In the off-season, players should focus on lateral movements, transition and balance, hand-eye coordination, and as always, strength and conditioning.  

As any athlete, hockey players are notorious for pre-game and pre-practice rituals.  Stick to your ritual in every sport.  That grounds the player’s psyche and settles the nerves.  This also allows the player not to lose focus on the coming season with psychological cues as a constant reminder that we are season ready year round.  

See you on the ice…