Summer is a great time for hockey players to sharpen their skills and stay in shape, even without access to the ice. With a bit of creativity and some DIY setups, you can still practice hockey drills at home. We will figure out some effective off-ice hockey drills, key skills to focus on, and how to set up your home practice area. Let’s dive into how you can make the most of your summer training.
Stickhandling drills
Stickhandling is a fundamental skill for any hockey player. Here are a few off-ice stickhandling drills you can try at home:
The basics:
- Use a stickhandling ball or a street hockey puck. (See the below stickhandling ball training aid)
- Set up cones or household items to create a course. (See below for training cones)
- Practice moving the ball or puck through the course, focusing on control and speed.
Toe drags
- Place an object (like a water bottle) on the ground.
- Practice dragging the ball or puck around the object using the toe of your stick.
- Increase speed as you become more comfortable.
Figure eights
- Arrange two objects a few feet apart.
- Stickhandle the ball or puck in a figure-eight pattern around the objects.
- Focus on smooth transitions and quick hands.
Shooting drills
Improving your shot is crucial for scoring goals. Here are some shooting drills you can do at home. Consider buying the below net for home to practice on.
Wrist shots
- Set up a target in your backyard or garage (a net or a designated spot on a wall).
- Practice wrist shots, focusing on accuracy and quick release.
- Increase distance as your accuracy improves.
Slap shots
- Use a weighted puck or a ball for added resistance.
- Practice your slap shots, paying attention to technique and power.
- Ensure you have enough space to safely execute the shots.
Backhand shots
- Set up a target and practice backhand shots.
- Work on accuracy and the quickness of your release.
- Alternate between forehand and backhand shots to simulate game situations.
Passing drills
Effective passing is essential for team play. These passing drills can be done with a partner or solo:
Wall passes
- Use a wall or a rebounder.
- Pass the ball or puck against the wall and receive it back.
- Focus on quick, accurate passes and receiving with soft hands.
Saucer passes
- Set up targets (like small cones) a few feet away.
- Practice lifting the ball or puck over obstacles to your target.
- Work on both short and long-distance saucer passes.
Skating drills without ice
While you can’t replicate the exact feel of ice, you can still improve your skating technique:
Stride technique
- Use a synthetic ice tile (see below).
- Focus on the proper stride technique, ensuring full extension and recovery.
- Work on balance and leg strength.
Rollerblading
- Invest in a good pair of inline rollerblades, preferably that are hockey inline rollerblades so the feel of the boot is similar.
- Practice skating in a smooth, controlled manner.
- Work on turns, stops, and starts to improve your agility.
Next steps
Let’s get on with it! With these off-ice hockey drills you can do at home during the summer, you’ll be able to stay sharp and improve your skills off the ice. Focus on stickhandling, shooting, passing, and skating techniques, and make use of DIY setups to enhance your summer hockey practice. By consistently working on these drills, you’ll be ready to hit the ice in top form when the new season begins.