Dryland Hockey Training For 12 Year Olds
Hockey is a tough game, it requires a combination of strength, agility, speed and endurance, and the only way to achieve these qualities is through constant practice and training. Dryland training is a type of off-ice training designed to improve a hockey player's overall performance. It involves a wide range of exercises that focus on building strength, endurance, and agility, and is especially beneficial for young hockey players who are looking to take their game to the next level. In this article, we'll explore some of the best dryland hockey training exercises for 12-year-olds.
The Importance of Dryland Hockey Training
Dryland training is an essential component of any hockey player's training regimen. It helps improve a player's overall skill level, reduces the risk of injury, and boosts endurance, speed, and strength. Additionally, dryland training provides young players with an opportunity to develop discipline, commitment, and confidence. By incorporating dryland training into their routine, young players will be able to better prepare themselves for the physical demands of hockey and become more well-rounded athletes.
Warm-Up Exercises
Before starting any dryland training exercises, it's important to warm up properly. Warm-up exercises help increase blood flow, loosen up the muscles and reduce the risk of injury. Some of the best warm-up exercises for young hockey players include jogging, jumping jacks, high knees, and butt kicks. Players should aim to do at least 5-10 minutes of warm-up exercises before each training session.
Agility Training
Agility is a key component of hockey. It's important for players to be able to change direction quickly and maintain their balance while skating. Agility training exercises help develop these skills. One of the best agility exercises for young hockey players is the ladder drill. This exercise involves running through a ladder while maintaining a fast pace and quick footwork. Another great agility exercise is the cone drill. This exercise involves weaving in and out of cones while maintaining a low center of gravity.
Strength Training
Strength is another important component of hockey. It's important for players to have strong legs, core, and upper body in order to maintain their balance, shoot the puck with power and win battles along the boards. Some of the best strength training exercises for young hockey players include bodyweight squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks. Players should aim to do at least 2-3 sets of each exercise, with 10-15 reps per set.
Endurance Training
Endurance is also an important component of hockey. Players need to be able to maintain their energy and focus throughout an entire game, and not get tired during critical moments. Some of the best endurance training exercises for young hockey players include running, cycling, and jumping rope. Players should aim to do at least 30 minutes of endurance training per day.
Cool-Down Exercises
Once the training session is complete, it's important to cool down properly. Cool-down exercises help reduce the risk of injury, reduce inflammation, and promote faster recovery. Some of the best cool-down exercises for young hockey players include static stretching, foam rolling, and deep breathing. Players should aim to do at least 5-10 minutes of cool-down exercises after each training session.
Conclusion
Dryland training is an essential component of any young hockey player's training regimen. By incorporating a combination of warm-up, agility, strength, endurance, and cool-down exercises into their routine, young players will be able to improve their overall performance, reduce the risk of injury, and become more well-rounded athletes. With dedication, commitment, and hard work, young players can take their game to the next level and achieve hockey success.
