Master Balance & Proprioception: Unlock Better Skating from the Ground Up
Today's off-ice progression is all about building better balance and body control by activating your proprioceptors from the ground up.
From: Jeff LoVecchio of GMBM (Give More Be More) and the Hockey Think Tank Podcast (Apple Podcasts | Spotify)
💡 Why Balance Work Matters:
Many knee, hip, and back issues can stem from poor ankle and foot function.
Training barefoot strengthens the foundation your entire body relies on.
Improved proprioception translates to more controlled, powerful skating.
Helps activate stabilizer muscles crucial for balance on skates.
Prepares your body to generate power more efficiently.
Lays the foundation for better posture and movement mechanics.
🛠️ Equipment Needed:
No shoes or socks (barefoot only)
A folded towel, sweatshirt, or balance pad for progression
*Full drill description, tips, and demonstration below the video.
VIDEO: Balance Progression Series for Hockey Players
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Master Balance & Proprioception: Unlock Better Skating from the Ground Up
✍️ Balance Series Description:
Level 1: Static Single-Leg Balance
Stand barefoot on one foot (start with left)
Slightly bend your knee, spread toes, and root into the ground
Keep eyes fixed on a spot for focus
⏳ 30 seconds each foot, 1–2 sets
Level 2: Visual Challenge
Repeat Level 1 setup
Slowly move your head, eyes, and shoulders around the room
Progress to using your thumbs extended in front to train peripheral vision
⏳ 30 seconds each foot, 1–2 sets
Level 3: Unstable Surface Challenge
Balance barefoot on a soft surface (folded towel, pillow, sweatshirt)
Begin with static balance, then add visual challenge as in Level 2
⏳ 30 seconds each foot, 1–2 sets
📌 Tips for Success:
Go slow, focus on form and control
This is neuromuscular training, not speed work
Stay consistent: a few minutes a day yields noticeable improvement
🧩 Optional Changes or Add-Ons:
Add stickhandling while balancing
Balance with eyes closed (advanced)
Use this as part of your warm-up before dryland, gym, or on-ice sessions
🏆 Train the Details, Win the Big Picture
You’ll likely notice improvement quickly—especially if you do this daily. Like hockey, great training is all about the details. Take this seriously in your warm-up, and it’ll show up in your performance.