Hockey training is the cornerstone of any player’s success on the ice. As players get older, body contact becomes an important part of the game, and it’s essential for players to have the proper training strategies to prepare for it. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different ways to bring the heat in your hockey training and build up the intensity of body contact.
Why body contact is introduced later in hockey now
In the world of hockey, body contact has always been a significant part of the game. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards introducing body contact at a later age, typically around U15. So why the change? The answer lies in player safety and skill development.
One of the main reasons body contact is introduced later is to ensure the safety of young players. Hockey can be a physically demanding sport, and introducing body contact too early can put young players at a higher risk of injury. By waiting until they have developed a certain level of skill and physical maturity, players are better equipped to handle the physicality of body contact.
Another reason for the delayed introduction of body contact is to focus on skill development. When players are younger, it is important for them to focus on mastering fundamental skills such as skating, passing, and shooting. By delaying body contact, players have more time to develop these essential skills without being distracted by the physicality of the game.
Overall, the decision to introduce body contact later in hockey is a strategic one that prioritizes player safety and skill development. By waiting until players are physically and mentally ready, they are given the best opportunity to excel on the ice.
The problem with skill development camps that don’t include enough body contact training
Skill development camps play a crucial role in improving a hockey player’s overall game. They focus on enhancing skills such as skating, shooting, and passing, which are essential for success on the ice. However, the problem arises when these camps neglect to include enough body contact training.
Without proper body contact training, players may struggle to adapt to the physicality of the game when it becomes a crucial component. Skill development alone cannot fully prepare players for the intense body contact they will encounter during games. As a result, players may find themselves unprepared, at higher risk of injury, and unable to compete effectively against opponents who have undergone comprehensive body contact training.
Furthermore, excluding body contact training from skill development camps can hinder players’ overall development and progression. Learning how to properly give and receive body contact is not only a necessary skill but also a crucial aspect of hockey strategy. Neglecting this aspect can hinder players’ understanding of the game, their ability to protect the puck, and their confidence on the ice.
It is important for skill development camps to prioritize body contact training as part of their curriculum. By doing so, players can gain the necessary skills, physicality, and confidence to excel in the highly competitive world of hockey.
Benefits of proper body contact training for hockey players
Proper body contact training is crucial for hockey players for several reasons. Firstly, it helps players develop the physicality and strength necessary to compete effectively on the ice. By incorporating body contact training into their routine, players can improve their balance, agility, and overall power, allowing them to better withstand the physical demands of the game.
In addition, body contact training helps players build confidence in their ability to give and receive contact. This confidence translates to improved performance on the ice, as players are less likely to shy away from physical battles and more willing to engage in strategic positioning and checking.
Furthermore, proper body contact training can help reduce the risk of injuries. When players are taught the correct techniques for body contact, such as using their bodies to shield the puck or delivering clean, legal checks, they are less likely to make dangerous plays that can result in injuries to themselves or their opponents.
Overall, incorporating body contact training into a player’s development plan has numerous benefits. It enhances physical abilities, builds confidence, and promotes safe and effective play. By investing in proper body contact training, hockey players can elevate their game and excel in the competitive world of hockey.
Off ice training strategies to prepare for body contact, including:
Off-ice training is a crucial component of preparing for body contact in hockey. While on-ice practice is essential, off-ice training allows players to build strength, power, and agility, which are key to thriving in physical situations on the ice. Here are a few strategies to help you prepare for body contact:
1. Strength training: Incorporate exercises that target your core, legs, and upper body. Squats, deadlifts, and lunges can help improve lower body strength, while push-ups, pull-ups, and shoulder presses can enhance upper body strength.
2. Plyometric exercises: These explosive movements, such as box jumps, lateral hops, and medicine ball throws, help develop power and improve your ability to react quickly in contact situations.
3. Agility drills: Work on your footwork and change of direction with ladder drills, cone drills, and shuttle runs. This will enhance your agility and quickness on the ice.
4. Balance and stability exercises: Perform exercises like single-leg squats, planks, and Bosu ball drills to improve your balance and stability, which are crucial for maintaining control in body contact situations.
Remember to consult with a trainer or coach to ensure you are using proper form and technique in your off-ice training. By incorporating these strategies into your routine, you’ll be better prepared for the intensity of body contact in hockey.
Affordable options for body contact training, such as:
When it comes to body contact training, you might assume that it comes with a hefty price tag. But fear not, there are affordable options available that can help you prepare for the intensity of body contact in hockey without breaking the bank.
One option is to join a local community center or recreation league. These programs often offer affordable hockey clinics or training sessions that include body contact drills. They provide a great opportunity to learn the necessary skills while staying within your budget.
Another option is to seek out online resources and tutorials. Many trainers and coaches offer instructional videos and programs that focus specifically on body contact training. These resources can be more cost-effective compared to in-person training sessions and allow you to work on your skills at your own pace.
You can also consider joining a local men’s league or pick-up hockey group. While these may not be formal training sessions, they provide an opportunity to play against more experienced players who can teach you the nuances of body contact. Plus, these leagues often have lower fees compared to competitive leagues.
Remember, affordable options for body contact training do exist. Don’t let budget constraints hold you back from developing the necessary skills to excel on the ice. Explore these options and find the best fit for your needs and budget.
The importance of communication and consent in body contact situations on the ice
In the fast-paced and physical world of hockey, communication and consent are essential when it comes to body contact on the ice. This is an often overlooked aspect of the game, but it plays a crucial role in keeping players safe and promoting fair play.
Effective communication is key when engaging in body contact situations. Players need to be able to communicate their intentions, whether it’s a clean check, a shoulder-to-shoulder collision, or a gentle tap on the boards. Clear and concise communication can help prevent unnecessary injuries and misunderstandings between players.
Consent is equally important in body contact situations. Players should always seek consent before initiating physical contact. It’s essential to respect the boundaries and comfort levels of fellow players. Without consent, body contact can lead to dangerous situations and unnecessary injuries.
Coaches and referees also have a role to play in promoting communication and consent. They should encourage players to communicate on the ice and emphasize the importance of consent. Referees can penalize players who engage in unsportsmanlike conduct or fail to respect their opponents’ boundaries.
By prioritizing communication and consent in body contact situations, players can foster a safer and more respectful environment on the ice. This not only reduces the risk of injuries but also enhances the overall experience of the game. So let’s remember to communicate, seek consent, and play the game with respect and sportsmanship.
Like this article? Check out more like it!