LATERAL HOPS

Lateral Hops are performed in a variety of ways. A hop is performed on a single leg, landing on the same leg. Distance traveling either vertically or linear is never really an issue. The Primary Focus of Lateral Hops is to allow the athlete to focus on the Landing and Loading Phase of their stride while controlling lateral forces. When you land, your hip joint should be slightly above your knee joint. Your chin, hip knee and ankle should all be in line to establish firm support. Lateral hops also help the athlete focus on ability to stabilize using the inside or outside part of your foot. This skill set will then transfer to the efficient use of the inside and outside edges while skating.

LATERAL BOX HOPS

Lateral Box Hops are part of our Lateral Hop Series and are taught in a specific progression.  A proper, stable landing is the primary focus of Lateral Box Hops. The box hop height will vary depending on ability. Lateral orientation to the box places a primary focus on lateral stability. We will change the method of loading before the jump to challenge a different reactive stimulus. Although the box may not be a challenging height, you are expected to perform each jump with maximal effort.

Lateral Box Hop: Hop to Double Leg Landing

• Begin standing tall, in a single leg stance, on your trail leg, perpendicular to the box
• Extend both hands’ overhead
• Quickly drop down into a load position, dropping your lead leg back
• Hand position opposite of foot position. Elbows bent with lead arm forward and slightly across your body, and trail hand near your waist
• During the Load Phase, your chin should line up directly over your hip, knee and foot
• Once you get into your power position, quickly change direction, by applying force with the trail leg.
• Explode laterally off your trail leg onto the box, reaching vertically with both arms
• Quietly land with both feet completely on the box in athletic position.
• Jump box height will be based upon ability. Your hips should be slightly above your knees upon landing. If not, the jump box may be too high
• Pause for 2 sec in athletic position and repeat