Effectivenes of "skateless" training (dryland)

Can training on non-ice surfaces actually help a players on ice play? ABSOLUTELY!

Dryland training is another dimension of hockey training for players that is just as significant as on ice training and practices.

Although dryland training is done 'skateless', drills can be easily performed to mimick hockey play---the change of direction, the quick foot action, the intensity of a players shift.

Dryland training tips for non-ice training:

• perform drills that incorporate change of direction over medium distances (5-10 yards)
• perform drills that focus on quick foot actions, such as ladder or mini-hurdle drills
• perform drills where players go from one action (shuffling 5 yards) immediately to another (carioca 5 yards)
• perform training drills with an emphasis on both high knee and low foot action
• dont't limit training to simply moving forwards---move back wards, sideways and vertical (i.e. plyos)

The use of training tools such as ladders, mini-hurldes, and bungee cords makes dryland training even more effective (you can grab some great cost effective training gear at ProPowerTraining.com.)

The bottom line is that your off-ice dryland training investment pays huge dividends when it comes to performing on the ice. All out 100% effort is the key----perform dryland training drills with the same attitude-intensity as your on ice play for maximum results.

Train hard, and good luck!