BUILDING THE ATHLETE

GRIT Off-ice training  optimizes the machine of the athlete. It is not enough to only increase the strength of the Athlete.  You must  focus on mobility and functionality as well. It is critically important to address the machine of the athlete briefly explained below.

mobility & flexibility

Flexibility can be described as a "passive range of motion". Mobility could be described as "ability to demonstrate power throughout the entire range of motion, including the end ranges". This is cornerstone of power in any physical endeavor. The hockey player needs both to a maximal degree. This is the bedrock of the Athlete's ability. The focus is;

1) Correct body mechanics in foundational movements - get the machine moving correctly!

2) Increase the range of motion in flexibility & mobility over time.

3) Increase overall connective tissue strength - posture, performance, and injury prevention

functionality

This refers to the degree that an athlete's ability can be applied to specific tasks.  This means asking the question "How does this help the athlete perform?". Building on a foundation of flexibility & mobility, strength and conditioning is applied under the principle of Functionality.  The focus is applications that directly improve;

1) Foundational body mechanics  

2) Performance on the ice

3) Quality of life

strength

This comes third because GRIT training prioritizes the above principles first, however the end goal of Off-Ice training is simple; Build and improve the athlete's ability, and then relentlessly improve upon it!

After the athlete has good body mechanics and functionality the work has just begun! From there we  work relentlessly to improve the athlete's ability to demonstrate power and strength throughout the skills of the the game. In this way we add to the athlete's ability and we ensure that it applies to their game and their health as well!