Athletic Training for Elite Hockey Players

Working out year-round is a must for elite athletes.  In order to keep your body in the best shape possible and prepare for competition you must engage in “seasons” of training.  Training that you do in your off season should be very different than your training in season to maximize progress.

Breaking your annual workout schedule into seasons works very well.  This not only maximizes progress but keeps athlete safe from avoidable injuries.  As hockey is a long season, the players spend the majority of their annual workout schedule with their trainers and teams in season.  The goal during this time is maintenance, to keep the athletes healthy and strong.  Building typically takes place after the active rest cycle prior to the season.  Below is a sample calendar of what a hockey player’s annual workout schedule might look like.

For sample periodization schedules and workouts the following sites offer some great advice: XCONDITIONING or BODYBUILDING.