How would you like to be the hockey player who dominates on the pitch, always gets to the ball first, has a big presence and makes an impact in games? Let’s take a look at how field hockey power training can help you!
Power is an important part of fitness as a hockey player but there is an art to it and there are a few things that you MUST bare in mind so please read this article carefully.
Below I have included a video demo of 3 exercises you can do to improve your power. Please note that these exercises form part of a structured training program and should be done in conjunction with a suitable field hockey strength and conditioning program like this one here
Power is the combination of strength and speed and is probably the most relevant when it comes to the hockey field, but the truth is that power comes from what you do in the gym.
Why work on power?
- Win those 50/50 balls & get in front of your player
- Explosive leads create more space and gives you more time on the ball
- Burst past players & make interceptions with improved first step quickness
- Hit, slap, overhead and dragflick more powerfully to catch the opposition out
- It could be the difference between the opposition having time to react or not
Related post: How to hit harder
Before you train power...
I suggest at least 8 weeks of the right kind of strength training to prepare your body for the demands of power training.
You MUST develop a good base of strength BEFORE working on power because STRENGTH IS THE FOUNDATION OF POWER. Without strength, you won't have much power!
This is also important because power exercises are demanding on your body and without a structured fitness program you could be putting yourself at high risk of injury, especially if you haven't prepared your body to handle it.
In the video below I share just 3 of the many exercises which are included in our hockey fitness program which includes a 16 week training program
Make sure you complete the exercises explosively but also under control.
As I said there is an art to power training the right way to ensure you maximise your potential while reducing risk of injury.
Related post: 10 Reasons Every Hockey Player Needs To Be Doing Strength Training
12 Factors to consider with power training:
- where you are in your season (off-season vs in-season)
- which exercises are best for you
- how to structure the exercises
- the right number of sets & reps
- how much rest to take between sets
- what tempo & intensity
- how often you train power
- your age, level and strength base
- your training age
- your position
- which equipment is most suitable for your goal
- any other activity you're doing, etc
Want to dominate on the hockey field?
Click here to learn more about our hockey training programs which will help you reach your potential and achieve your hockey goals.