Is "Dry" Training Necessary in Youth Hockey?

Often, hockey professionals will advocate for the importance of “dry” or “off-ice” training for hockey players. But, one often wonders, is this really necessary for youth hockey players?  

The answer is yes! Not only is “dry” training very beneficial for young ice athletes, but it’s also a whole lot more affordable than time on the ice, which is a nice added benefit.

Aerobic Exercise and Endurance

To start off with, most off-ice training programs for young athletes are very aerobic in nature. For example, they often involve running drills. Not only does this keep kids active and healthy, but it also increases overall endurance, a skill that translates well to the ice.

While it’s great if you can find your kid a specialized dry training program for hockey players, any aerobics class, obstacle course, or other physical activity, if done at least a couple of times a week, should do the trick.

Weight Training

The thought of your youngster lifting weights at the gym might seem funny, but, believe it or not, weight training can actually be highly effective for young athletes.

Even the smallest of children can easily lift up to three pounds worth of dumbbells. Plus, moves likes curls, raises, and more are easy to perform.

Getting your young hockey player involved in a strength training program at a local gym, preferably one that understands the specialized needs of young hockey players, could be a very wise move.

Proper Nutrition

Not all “dry” training is necessarily physically active in nature.

In fact, a big part of staying in top-trained condition is eating healthy, something that is important for even the youngest of athletes.

Ensure that your child is eating plenty of fruits and veggies and getting ample protein to support his or her active lifestyle. You’d be surprised at just how much of a difference a healthy diet can make.

In fact, all of these types of “dry” training can impact your child in wonderful, positive ways. Not only will they make him or her a happier, stronger individual in general, but they should also help your child to perform better, last longer, and overall, be more successful on the ice.