Speed Training for Field Hockey

Field hockey players can increase their on-field speed.

Speed is one of the weapons used by elite field hockey players to gain ground and help facilitate offensive scoring chances. A player can only run so fast, but there are training exercises aimed at helping a player reach his speed potential.

Sprints

Sprint training can provide immense benefit to players not accustomed to running quickly on the field. By executing repeated sprints in short bursts, players will sharpen their technique while developing the muscles needed to run faster. Short sprints also provide players with the most reasonable facsimile of the kind of running they will do in a game setting.

Weight Training

A player looking to improve her speed should hit the weight room. The more force behind each step, the faster an athlete will run. For this reason, strength training for the legs is pivotal to a player's improved speed.

Game Simulation

The best way to develop foot speed and overall quickness is to play in scrimmages. Understanding the pace of the game and making adjustments will help a player know when she should use her speed to her advantage.

References

• Planet Field Hockey: Explosive/Speed Training