Hockey requires a great deal of endurance, strength, speed and agility. Therefore, hockey players will use both aerobic and anaerobic energy systems. Players are also required to think tactically, have fast reaction time and display tactical and technical ball movement skills for the duration of the game.
Because of these characteristics, energy demands can be high, particularly in tournament settings where several games may be played over a number of days. There is the potential for high levels of fluid loss and injuries making nutrition and hydration strategies essential for optimising performance of players at all levels.
A hockey player’s diet should be based around lean proteins for muscle repair and recovery and appropriately timed carbohydrate for fuel. In addition, fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds and dairy foods provide important vitamins and minerals, along with some healthy fats.
Hockey is a fast moving game that requires high-intensity running, fast decision-making and skill. Studies have shown that dehydration can negatively impact shooting accuracy, speed, agility concentration and co-ordination.
Due to the high intensity, stop/start style of the matches, sweat rates can be high. The temperature and humidity will also play a part in the players fluid needs. Fluid needs will depend on individual fluid losses, which vary between players depending on individual sweat rate.
