How To Get McDavid Like Speed!
Speed is one of the most crucial skills in hockey. A faster skater can break away from opponents, close defensive gaps, and create game-changing opportunities. To improve your skating speed, you need to focus on several key areas: mastering your skating technique, building explosive power, improving core strength, enhancing flexibility and mobility, practicing sprint starts and transitions, developing endurance, optimizing equipment, and seeking professional coaching.
The foundation of skating speed lies in mastering technique. Efficient stride mechanics are essential—this includes maintaining a deep knee bend, achieving full leg extension, and ensuring quick recovery to prepare for the next stride. Your body position should be low and stable, with your chest slightly forward and weight balanced over the balls of your feet. Additionally, edge control plays a pivotal role in balance and agility, making edge drills a necessary part of your training routine.
Explosive power is another critical component of speed. Off-ice exercises such as squats, lunges, plyometrics, and sprints are excellent for developing the leg strength needed for acceleration and quick bursts. Incorporating jump squats and lateral bounds into your workouts can further enhance your ability to generate power quickly. Alongside power, core strength is vital for balance and stability. Exercises like planks, Russian twists, and medicine ball slams help transfer power effectively from your legs to your skates.
Flexibility and mobility are often overlooked but are key to achieving a greater range of motion and reducing the risk of injury. Dynamic stretches, yoga, and foam rolling should be integral parts of your regimen. These activities not only improve flexibility but also aid in recovery, ensuring you stay at peak performance.
To translate these physical improvements into on-ice performance, practice sprint starts, crossover acceleration, and quick transitions. These drills enhance your ability to gain speed from a standstill and maintain momentum while changing directions. Pairing these with endurance-focused exercises, such as interval training and long skating sessions, ensures you can sustain your speed throughout a game.
Don’t overlook the importance of your equipment. Properly fitted skates, sharp blades, and regular maintenance are essential for maximizing your performance. Ill-fitting or poorly maintained skates can hinder your progress, regardless of your skill level.
Finally, professional coaching can provide invaluable insights and tailored training plans. Coaches can identify areas for improvement and use video analysis to refine your technique. With their guidance, you’ll be able to focus on specific weaknesses and turn them into strengths.
By concentrating on these areas, you’ll see measurable improvements in your skating speed. Consistency and dedication are key. Regular practice, a willingness to challenge yourself, and celebrating your progress will lead to significant gains. With time and effort, you can become a faster, more impactful hockey skater.
- Grant Sikich (Director of Player Development)