All ages?

Why does HPD offer off-ice training for all ages?

The best way to compliment your on-ice training is to work properly off the ice. In order for this to happen we must understand that a “one size fits all” training regiment, is now obsolete.

At HPD our staff believes that age appropriate related strength training can develop strength and power at all ages. Our goals, are to create off-ice programs that directly compliment the ages of the participants. Functional strength training for younger athletes and Olympic lifting variations for older athletes are both great ways to develop explosiveness on the ice at different ages.

I have found that what most hockey players need the most they perhaps neglect the most. Training of the anaerobic system is by most interpretations not fun. Anaerobic exercise is exercise intense enough to trigger anaerobic metabolism. It is used by athletes in non-endurance sports to promote strength, speed and power. Although you cannot neglect your aerobic system in hockey, the anaerobic system is clearly the driving force. Power and explosiveness off a start or stop and quick bursts to change directions all rely on this system. As an example, one technique at HPD used to train this system off-ice are resisted sprints and will be reinforced on ice with resisted skating sprints. We believe that functional strength training as such is paramount for developing power and explosiveness.

HPD uses the LTAD (Long Term Athlete Development) model created by Dr. Istvan Balyi and recognized by USA hockey for an educated plan of attack. This road map documents any particular athletic development from pre-puberty through retirement. Sport scientists use these principles to take a proactive approach to athletic development. Using “speed” as an example. The LTAD states that both boys and girls have two windows where they have an increased opportunity to develop their speed. For boys, it is ages 7-9 and 13-16. Girls have their windows a little earlier at ages 6-8 and 11-13.
Ultimately and to answer the above question, using the appropriate exercises at the right times throughout the development process can help a hockey player reach his or her potential in the sport.
Nick Parillo

HPD Head Hockey Instructor www.hockeyplayerdevelopment.com 
(For more information on the LTAD model go to www.tamohockey.com click on “For Parents”)