The Science of Ice Hockey Performance: Speed or Stamina?

Join us as we explore the science behind ice hockey performance, breaking down the unique physical demands of ice hockey. ● We'll analyze the energy systems at play, comparing the contributions of aerobic and anaerobic metabolism to those bursts of speed and power on the ice. ● Discover how muscle glycogen fuels those high-intensity shifts and the importance of maintaining adequate levels throughout the game. ● We'll examine the fascinating interplay of fatigue and recovery, investigating how players cope with the demands of repeated sprints and the impact on performance. ● Uncover the physiological factors like dehydration and hyperthermia that contribute to end-game fatigue and explore strategies for mitigating these effects. ● Finally, we'll look ahead to the future of ice hockey research, including personalized training strategies and nutrition plans based on individual player needs and positional roles. This episode is a must-listen for players, coaches, and anyone fascinated by the science of athletic performance! Main source: Vigh-Larsen JF, Mohr M. The physiology of ice hockey performance: An update. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 2024 Jan;34(1):e14284. doi: 10.1111/sms.14284. Epub 2022 Dec 29. PMID: 36517860.