How To Develop Soft Hands For Hockey
Having soft hands is a crucial skill for hockey players as it allows for better puck handling, passing, and shooting. Here are five supporting facts to help you develop soft hands for hockey:
1. Regular Stickhandling Practice: To develop soft hands, you need to practice stickhandling regularly. Set aside time every day to work on your stickhandling skills by using drills that focus on controlling the puck with finesse.
2. Improve Hand-Eye Coordination: Hand-eye coordination is essential for developing soft hands. Engage in activities such as juggling, using reaction balls, or playing other sports that require good hand-eye coordination. These exercises will translate into your hockey skills.
3. Utilize Off-Ice Training Aids: Various off-ice training aids can help enhance your hand skills for hockey. Tools like stickhandling balls, weighted pucks, or mini hockey sticks can be used to improve puck control and develop softer hands.
4. Incorporate Quick Hands Drills: Quick hands drills focus on increasing the speed and dexterity of your hands, allowing you to handle the puck with finesse. Incorporate drills such as the “Figure 8,” where you move the puck in a figure-eight motion around cones, to improve your agility and soft hands.
5. Practice in Tight Spaces: Hockey often requires players to handle the puck in tight spaces, so it’s important to practice in these confined areas. Set up obstacles or use boards to simulate game-like scenarios where you have limited space to maneuver. This will help you develop soft hands under pressure.
FAQs:
1. How long should I practice stickhandling each day?
It’s recommended to practice stickhandling for at least 15-30 minutes a day. Consistency is key when it comes to developing soft hands.
2. Can I improve my hand skills without being on the ice?
Absolutely! Off-ice training aids and exercises can significantly improve your hand skills for hockey. Utilize tools like stickhandling balls or perform hand-eye coordination exercises to enhance your soft hands off the ice.
3. Are there any specific hand-eye coordination exercises I should focus on?
There are various exercises you can try to improve hand-eye coordination for hockey. Some effective ones include juggling different objects, using reaction balls or bounce-back targets, or playing sports like tennis or racquetball.
4. Will practicing quick hands drills help me develop softer hands?
Yes, quick hands drills are designed to improve the speed, dexterity, and finesse of your hands. These drills will enhance your ability to handle the puck with softness and control.
5. How do I practice stickhandling in tight spaces if I don’t have access to a hockey rink?
You can adapt your practice area to simulate tight spaces by setting up obstacles such as cones or using boards to create boundaries. This will help you replicate game-like situations even without being on a hockey rink.
6. Can I develop soft hands even if I’m new to hockey?
Yes, regardless of your experience level, you can develop soft hands for hockey. Start with the basics of stickhandling and gradually progress to more advanced drills and exercises.
7. How long does it typically take to develop soft hands for hockey?
The time it takes to develop soft hands varies for each individual. Consistent practice and dedication will yield noticeable improvements over time. With regular training, you can expect to see progress within a few weeks to a few months.
BOTTOM LINE:
To develop soft hands for hockey, incorporate regular stickhandling practice, improve hand-eye coordination, utilize off-ice training aids, incorporate quick hands drills, and practice in tight spaces. Consistency and dedication are key in improving your soft hand skills for better puck handling and control on the ice.
