The importance of balance for hockey players
If you are an ice hockey player, you probably have great balance. It is a more important skill on the ice than in other sports.
A wobbly ankle won’t get you very far when you’re carrying the puck into the area or trying to speed up your opponent as they lunge for the goal. To be the best on the ice, you must be in control of your body and your balance.
Many hockey players work hard to improve their balance on and off the ice. One of the exercises requires you to stand on one foot with your eyes closed. Do it for as long as possible.
After that try switching legs. Repeat this sequence but try to do it with a single leg squat with your knee bent 90 degrees. Try to hold this position for 30 seconds and then switch sides. Continue until you can hold the position for 60 seconds on each leg. If you do it regularly you will see results.
Once you’ve mastered the blind squat, try jumping from one leg to the other. Hold for 30 seconds on each leg. Do it for as long as possible without losing your balance. It’s challenging, but great for improving your balance.
As your balance improves, work hard to extend your holding time. If you practice these balance exercises on a regular basis, you will get better.
For best results on the ice, ice hockey coaches often have their players perform these balancing drills in uniforms full off the ice. This little realism helps players balance themselves as they are used to balancing wearing heavy and cumbersome equipment.
If you are a hockey player, you must try it. These balance exercises are great for any sport but especially those that require great balance. Do it regularly and you will have better balance and better performance on the ice.