Every hockey team faces a time during the offseason or between games when they don’t have access to the ice, no matter the level. Even professional players have days where they only have their home gym or a local training center to work out. They have to find ways to keep their skills sharp – and even improve on them – while on dry land.
They lift weights, do plyometrics and work on their cardio endurance just like any athlete does during the offseason. Besides hitting the gym and gaining strength, many successful hockey players will work on stick handling drills during this time. They will do this using an off ice stickhandling tool such as a stick handling ball or an off ice puck. These tools aren’t just for professionals, however. Many coaches and trainers recommend that all players keep an assortment of training tools in their hockey bags at all times.
Off Ice Stickhandling Tool Benefits
Practicing stickhandling drills year-round improves a player’s hand-eye coordination and keeps his motor skills at the same level he reaches during the peak of the season. This can help him to become a better player because he is not starting fresh and rebuilding these skills every season. Instead, he is building on the lessons he learned off ice.
These drills are especially good for young or inexperienced players who are still developing their techniques. Working with dryland tools, these players can practice sliding their hands and using their stick will begin to feel more natural.
For more advanced players, practicing with these tools allows a chance to gain confidence in their puck control abilities. This can translate to better puck protection on the ice, and more time of possession for their team.
Off Ice Stickhandling Tool Options
There are several options for puck alternatives when practicing dryland stick handling. Stickhandling balls are weighted balls that mimic the weight and size of a puck on the ice. They do not handle like a puck, but they are popular for developing feel and technique because they do not require a smooth surface. Popular brands include Smart Hockey training balls and Swedish Stickhandling wooden balls.
Pucks designed for dryland use include the Green Biscuit and FlyPucks. These pucks are designed to match the feel of a real puck on the ice, but made for use on smooth, dry surfaces. Some brands also offer weighted pucks to build strength during dryland drills.
No matter the level of play, it is a good idea for hockey players to practice stickhandling all year. This helps to develop and master skills that are used to protect the puck and retain possession on the ice. HockeyOT has many stickhandling drills, both with specialized off ice stickhandling tools and without. We specialize in dryland training and can help you improve your playing or provide resources for your team today.
