Off Ice Hockey Drills For Speed
Speed is an important factor in hockey, and it can often make the difference between winning and losing. If you want to improve your speed on the ice, you need to practice off ice hockey drills for speed. These drills are designed to help you develop the explosive power, agility, and speed needed to become a faster and more effective hockey player. In this article, we will discuss some of the best off ice hockey drills for speed that you can do at home or at the gym.
Agility Ladder Drills
Agility ladder drills are excellent for improving your footwork, agility and coordination. They are simple but effective drills that can be done anywhere, and they can be adapted to suit players of all skill levels.
To perform agility ladder drills, you will need an agility ladder. Start by standing at one end of the ladder and then run through the ladder as quickly as possible. Make sure you keep your feet close to the ground and your knees up, and touch your feet in each square of the ladder. Repeat the drill several times, increasing your speed each time. This drill will help you improve your quick footwork and coordination, which are crucial for a speedy hockey player.
Sprint Intervals
Sprint intervals are an excellent way to improve your overall speed and endurance. They are simple but effective drills that can be done anywhere, and they don't require any special equipment.
To do sprint intervals, simply run as fast as you can for a set amount of time, and then rest for a set amount of time. Repeat this process several times, gradually increasing the length of time you run and decreasing the length of time you rest. This drill will help you build explosive power in your legs, which is essential for sprinting on the ice.
Resistance Band Sprints
Resistance band sprints are an excellent way to work on your leg strength and speed. All you need is a resistance band and some space to run.
To do resistance band sprints, wrap a resistance band around your waist and attach it to something heavy like a weightlifting machine. Start running forward as fast as you can, making sure the resistance band is pulling you back. Run for as long as you can, and then rest for a few minutes before doing another set. This drill is great for building leg strength and explosiveness, which are important qualities for any hockey player.
Box Jumps
Box jumps are a great way to build lower body strength and explosive power. They are simple but effective exercises that can be done anywhere, and they require no special equipment.
To do box jumps, you will need a sturdy box or bench that is about knee height. Stand in front of the box and jump up onto it, making sure you land with both feet on top. Step down and repeat the exercise, gradually increasing the height of the box each time. This drill will help you build explosive power in your legs, which is crucial for jumping and sprinting on the ice.
Conclusion
If you want to become a faster and more effective hockey player, practicing off ice hockey drills for speed is essential. These drills will help you build the explosive power, agility, and speed needed to excel on the ice. From agility ladder drills to box jumps, there are many exercises you can do at home or at the gym to improve your speed and overall performance on the ice. Incorporate these drills into your training routine, and you'll be amazed at how much difference they can make in your game.
