The First Rules in Speed Training

Whenever speed is your aim, it’s important to obey certain scientific (as well as common sense) rules.

It should make sense that a player can’t train at top speed if he or she is tired. So, speed oriented drilling should be done early in a workout, the all-out or working phase shouldn’t last for more than about 12-seconds, and the athlete needs adequate rest before being able to go all-out again.

It should make further sense that heavy, bulky or tight gear can slow or otherwise inhibit proper movements. As a matter of fact, the concept of “over-speed” training takes this even further, utilizing the likes of downhill running and reversed bungees to actually assist a movement to be faster than normal.

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PS: From pure frustration, I refer to those who prescribe weighted skates and such as knuckleheads. Yes, weights can be used to enhance speed — at times, but such methods are a totally ‘nother story.