Leg Power Exercises

Leg power is a key component for hockey players. It gives you the explosiveness needed to make quick moves on the ice, skate faster, and hit harder.

Whether you’re a parent, coach, or player, it’s important to develop leg power off the ice to enhance performance on it.

This blog post will outline the five best exercises for leg power.

Squats

Squats are a classic exercise and for good reason. They target multiple muscle groups in the legs, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes.

To perform a squat, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and lower down until your knees reach a 90-degree angle.

Push through your heels to lift back up and repeat. Start with body weight squats and gradually increase the weight as you build strength.

Deadlifts

Deadlifts are another great exercise for strengthening your lower body. They target the hamstrings, glutes, and lower back.

Stand behind a barbell with your feet shoulder-width apart to perform a deadlift. Bend down and grip the bar with both hands, keeping your back flat.

Lift the bar by straightening your legs and back up to standing. Lower the bar back down, keeping your back straight at all times.

Lunges

Lunges are excellent for developing single-leg strength and balance.

Stand with your feet hip-width apart, take a big step forward with your right leg and lower your body until your right knee reaches a 90-degree angle.

Push through your right heel to return to standing. Repeat on the other leg.

Jumping exercises

Plyometric exercises like jumping squats and box jumps can be great for developing explosive leg power.

They target the fast-twitch muscle fibres essential for quick bursts of speed and power.

To perform a jumping squat, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, lower down into a squat position, and jump up as high as possible.

Land back in the squat position and repeat.

Step-ups

Step-ups are a simple yet effective exercise for developing leg strength.

Step up onto a bench or platform with your right foot and push off to lift your left foot.

Step back down with your left foot and then your right. Repeat for the desired number of reps before switching legs.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating these five exercises into your training routine will help you develop the leg power needed for success on the hockey rink.

Remember to start with lower or no weight and gradually build up as your strength increases.

As a coach or parent, you can help your players develop these skills by incorporating these exercises into team practices or providing a recommended training program for players to do outside practice times.

You can achieve your leg power goals and up your hockey game with hard work and dedication.