Anaerobic Threshold
Energy SystemsThe intensity at which lactic acid starts to accumulate, crucial for repeated sprints on the ice.
In practice
Program slideboard or bike intervals around this intensity to extend your shift endurance.
Glossary
Speak thesame game.
Plain-language definitions for the training, coaching and player-development terms used across Elite Hockey HQ, each with a cue you can take into the next session.
- Terms28Each with a plain-language definition.
- Sections4From conditioning to bench chirps.
- Practical tips28One for every term, to take into the next session.
All terms
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Search definitions, focus tags, or coach tips. The sections and the letters work together, so you can narrow the glossary without losing your place.
Conditioning Essentials
Build the engine that powers confident, repeatable shifts.
VO2 Max
TestingA measure of aerobic capacity and overall conditioning.
In practiceRetest every 6–8 weeks to confirm that base conditioning blocks are moving the needle.
Plyometrics
PowerExplosive jump exercises that increase leg power for stronger strides.
In practicePair plyos with heavy lifts for contrast training so speed carries over to the ice.
Interval Training
In-SeasonAlternating bursts of intense work and rest to build endurance for shifts.
In practiceUse 30–45 second bursts with full-speed intent, matching a game shift before easing down.
Dynamic Warm-up
PreparationMovement-based prep that readies muscles and joints before skating.
In practiceInclude lateral lunges, glute activation, and thoracic mobility so you feel springy before you lace up.
Microdosing Workouts
RecoveryShort, high-intensity sessions distributed through the week to maintain capacity without overloading.
In practiceStack two 12-minute micro sessions on heavy travel days to keep legs alive without draining them.
Skill Development & IQ
Sharpen puck control, skating, and the reads that win possessions.
Deke
DeceptionA fake move to dodge an opponent.
In practiceSell the move with head and hip fakes before pulling the puck to space.
Breakaway
FinishingA solo rush toward the net with no defenders to beat.
In practiceStay relaxed, pick a spot early, and change speeds to keep the goalie guessing.
Edge Work
SkatingPrecise control of inside and outside skate edges to change direction quickly.
In practiceLayer 10–15 second edge bursts into every skill session to sharpen agility.
Scanning
AwarenessQuick shoulder checks to read pressure and options before receiving the puck.
In practiceScan twice before the puck arrives so you already know your next play.
Soft Touch
Puck ControlLight hands on the stick that absorb the puck for smoother control.
In practiceUse off-ice stickhandling balls to train a relaxed top hand that guides instead of squeezes.
Net-Front Battle
CompeteEngaging defenders near the crease to create screens or tips.
In practiceAnchor your inside leg and keep your stick free so you can win tips and rebounds.
Team Systems & Culture
Common language for special teams and five-on-five structure.
Forecheck
PressurePressuring opponents in their zone to regain puck control.
In practiceStay above the puck so the second forechecker can jump loose plays quickly.
Power Play
Special TeamsOffensive advantage when the other team has a penalty.
In practiceMove the puck before you move your feet to stretch defenders out of their lanes.
Puck Possession
Team PlayMaintaining control of the puck to create scoring chances.
In practiceUse support triangles so the puck carrier always has a short outlet.
Neutral Zone Trap
StructureA defensive formation that clogs the middle of the ice to slow transitions.
In practiceKeep sticks in passing lanes and angle carriers toward your strong-side support.
Strong-Side Overload
SpacingStacking attackers on the puck side to create quick-touch options.
In practiceRotate a weak-side player high to seal the blue line and keep the cycle alive.
Penalty Kill Rotation
Special TeamsThe coordinated movement defenders use to protect the slot while shorthanded.
In practiceRead the puck carrier’s hands and rotate as a unit so no seam stays open.
Elite Bench Chirps
Quick-witted one-liners that keep the boys buzzing between whistles.
“Nice pass… to the other team.”
TurnoverCall this out after a brutal turnover to twist the knife.
In practiceFloat it as you skate by their bench right after you pick off the breakout.
“Need a GPS to find the net?”
AccuracyPerfect for the shooter who keeps sending muffins into the glass.
In practiceDrop it after a third straight miss so the whole rink hears.
For the forward whose crossover looks like a three-point turn.
In practiceFire it off after they wipe out on a routine pivot.
Tease a sniper whose best shots keep padding your tendy’s stats.
In practicePoint to your goalie as he freezes another low-danger shot.
When the puck hops off their stick like it’s allergic.
In practiceYell it right after another failed zone entry toe drag.
Hit the guy who keeps taking unforced spills in open ice.
In practiceLet it fly after the third time they trip over the blue line.
Reminder for the passenger who hasn’t sniffed a point all night.
In practiceGlance up at the clock as you deliver it for extra sting.
Use on the player who’s swinging lumber with no jump.
In practiceTime it during a dead puck so the stripes can hear too.
Needle the depth guy glued to the pine.
In practiceLean over the boards as they finish another ten-second shift.
Aim at a line that keeps feathering floaters into the crest.
In practicePat your trainer on the shoulder for comedic effect.
Take it to practice.
Plug the concept into your next workout, skill block, or coaching cue.