Off Ice Hockey Drills To Improve Skating
If you want to improve your skating skills in hockey, you need to practice off the ice as well. A combination of on-ice and off-ice training can make a huge difference in your overall performance. In this article, we will be discussing some of the best off-ice hockey drills to improve your skating. These drills will help you develop your endurance, speed, balance, and agility, which are all essential skills for any hockey player.
1. Jump Rope
Jumping rope is a great way to improve your footwork and coordination, which are important skills for any hockey player. Jumping rope can help you develop your agility and quickness, which are crucial for skating. Start with 30 seconds and then gradually increase the time as you get better.
2. Squats
Squats are a great exercise to improve your overall lower body strength. A strong lower body is essential for skating, as it will allow you to generate more power and speed. Start with bodyweight squats and then gradually increase the weight as you get stronger.
3. Lunges
Lunges are another great exercise to improve your lower body strength. Lunges will help you develop your balance and stability, which are important skills for skating. Start with bodyweight lunges and then gradually increase the weight as you get stronger.
4. Plyometric Exercises
Plyometric exercises are explosive movements that can help you develop your speed and power. Examples of plyometric exercises include squat jumps, box jumps, and explosive lunges. These exercises will help you improve your acceleration and agility, which are all essential for skating.
5. Sprints
Sprints are a great way to improve your speed and endurance. Start with short sprints and then gradually increase the distance as you get better. Sprints will help you develop your acceleration and top speed, which are important skills for skating.
6. Stair Running
Running up and down stairs is a great way to improve your leg strength and endurance. This exercise will help you develop your balance and stability, which are important skills for skating. Start with a few flights of stairs and then gradually increase the number of flights as you get better.
7. Agility Ladder Drills
Agility ladder drills are a great way to improve your footwork and agility. These drills involve speed and change of direction, which are all essential skills for skating. There are many different agility ladder drills you can try, so make sure to mix it up.
By incorporating these off-ice hockey drills into your training routine, you can improve your skating skills and become a better hockey player. Remember to start slowly and gradually increase the difficulty as you get better. With time and practice, you will notice a significant improvement in your skating abilities.
