In ice hockey it is important to be confident on the ice, to be able to gain speed, turn and often perform “aerobatics”. We offer some classic exercises to develop coordination skills of a hockey player:
1. Shuttle run:
- Description:
Running with the puck between two lines 5-10 metres apart. - Characteristics:
Develops agility, coordination, speed. - Benefits:
Helps the hockey player to change direction quickly, which is important in the game.
2. Snake:
- Description:
Dribbling the puck between chips arranged in a snake pattern. - Characteristics:
Develops coordination, puck control, manoeuvrability. - Benefits:
Helps the hockey player to dribble around opponents and possess the puck in a confined space.
3. Slalom:
- Description:
Dribbling the puck between chips arranged in a row. - Characteristics:
Develops coordination, puck control, speed. - Benefits:
Helps the hockey player to move quickly with the puck, which is important in attacking.
4. Skating on one leg:
- Description:
Skating on one foot with the other foot off the ice. - Characteristics:
Develops sense of balance, coordination, balance. - Benefits:
Helps the hockey player to stay on the ice in difficult situations.
5. Juggling the puck:
- Description:
Tossing and bouncing the puck with the stick. - Characteristics:
Develops coordination, agility, and puck control. - Benefits:
Helps the hockey player to possess the puck in all situations.
These exercises are only a small part of what can be used to develop a hockey player’s coordination skills.
Important:
- Perform the exercises regularly.
- Gradually increase the difficulty of the exercises.
- Focus on proper exercise technique.
Developing coordination skills is an important factor for success in hockey.
How to increase a hockey player’s coordination load:
1. Gradually increase the difficulty of exercises:
- Start with simple exercises and gradually add more complex exercises.
- Increase the speed of the exercises.
- Use a variety of exercise variations.
2. Use a variety of exercise equipment:
- Balance boards.
- Unstable platforms.
- Coordination exercise machines.
3. Incorporating coordination exercises into the training process:
- Add coordination exercises to your warm-up.
- Perform coordination exercises after strength exercises.
- Finish your workout with coordination exercises.
4. Use game exercises:
- Ball games.
- Games with a puck.
- Relay races.
5. Variety:
- Do not do the same exercises all the time.
- Change exercises to keep it interesting.
- Add new exercises to your training plan.
Important:
- Start with a small load and gradually increase the load.
- Observe proper exercise technique.
- Listen to your body and do not overload yourself.
Developing coordination skills is a long process that requires patience and regular training.
By following these tips, you can gradually increase the coordination load and improve your skills.