MAX VELOCITY

Max Velocity is the third phase of Speed Mechanics. Although a hockey stride is greatly dependent on the Start and Acceleration Phase, Mav “V” Training does address some of the sprint disciplines which are important to improving speed and skating mechanics.

The three points of emphasis with regard to Max Velocity Training are; Posture, Knee Lift, and Recovery/Turnover. Most early skaters have little control of posture, relative to lack of balance and stability. They also tend to have a “scooting” type stride which is short with little to no knee lift. As these training qualities improve by performing proper speed mechanics, the athlete will become more confident through balance and strength, which allows for a longer stride, greater force production and stride turnover.

FIRST STEP DECELERATION MECHANICS

First Step Deceleration Mechanics are extremely important relative to a powerful skating stride. The glide leg must remain stable with the knee bend at ideally 90°. With a slightly forward posture tilt, the glide knee is beyond a normal waist height. It’s imperative that the glide leg remain stable as the drive leg generates power through the Drive or Push Phase.

Hip Drive / MB First Step: Half Squat / Standing

• Use a 3lb Soft Med Ball for Youth, 6lb for older players
• Begin in an athletic position, 3 ft from wall
• Quickly drop hips into a half squat position
• Without pause, drive hips forward to standing position
• Use hip momentum to assist in chest pass to wall
• Catch the Med Ball, pause for 2 sec and return to starting position