Unlocking the Secrets of High-Level Hockey Training: A Guide for the Rest of Us
As a self-proclaimed gym enthusiast, I've always been fascinated by the world of elite sports training. But when I recently had the opportunity to speak with Ken Whittier, Boston University's associate head strength and conditioning coach, I realized that the intense workouts of professional and college hockey players are not for the faint of heart or the average gym-goer. While I may be recovering from plantar fasciitis and dealing with some knee issues, Whittier's insights into the training regimens of NHL players like Noel Acciari and Charlie McAvoy offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of high-performance athletics.
What makes hockey training so unique is the focus on speed, power, and durability. Unlike many other sports, hockey players spend an entire season leaning forward, which can lead to imbalances in strength and mobility. Whittier's approach to training is therefore highly tailored to address these specific needs. In the early stages of the summer program, he emphasizes foundational work, including strength, mobility, stability, and fitness. This involves movements like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and chin-ups, performed at lower weights and with a focus on slow, controlled movements.
One of the most intriguing aspects of hockey training is the use of overcoming isometrics, which Whittier describes as "maximum-effort attempts to move immovable objects." These exercises, such as pushing against a wall or pulling an immovable bar, are designed to prime the nervous system for optimal performance. By engaging in these intense efforts, athletes can enhance their receptivity to maximum outputs and improvements in their desired areas of focus. However, Whittier notes that these exercises are not for the general population, as they carry a higher risk of injury and are more suited to elite athletes chasing speed and power.
The training program also incorporates advanced concepts like tempo lifting and the use of specialized equipment like the 1080 Sprint and flywheel machines. Tempo lifting, for instance, involves holding a position for a set amount of time, which can help create fatigue byproducts in the legs and signal to the body that it needs to respond to this fatigue. This can lead to a great growth hormone stimulus with lower loads, promoting muscle growth and strength.
What makes hockey training particularly fascinating is the way it challenges our assumptions about exercise and fitness. For instance, Whittier notes that the general population may be better suited to perform back squats due to their on-ice stance, while hockey players may struggle with these movements. Similarly, the use of overcoming isometrics and specialized equipment like the 1080 Sprint and flywheel machines highlights the importance of tailoring training programs to specific athletic needs.
In conclusion, the world of high-level hockey training is a fascinating blend of science, athleticism, and strategy. While it may not be suitable for everyone, Whittier's insights offer a valuable perspective on the importance of tailoring training programs to specific athletic needs. As for me, I'll leave the hard stuff to the players and focus on my own fitness journey, taking inspiration from the principles of hockey training to inform my own workouts and push myself to new heights.
