Top 5 Off-Ice Drills Every Hockey Player Should Be Doing

Want to take your game to the next level? It doesn’t start on the ice — it starts in your garage, your basement, or your driveway.

These off-ice drills build elite-level hands, balance, and shot power.

1. Ball Stickhandling Maze

Grab a golf ball or Swedish ball and set up obstacles (cones, shoes, pucks — whatever you’ve got). Work through them fast, then slow, then eyes up.
Focus: Quick hands, control, spatial awareness.

2. Snap Shot Release Reps

Set a daily goal: 50–100 snapshots. Work on fast release, weight transfer, and shot accuracy. Use a proper shooting pad if possible.
Focus: Shot mechanics, muscle memory.

3. Hand & Wrist Strengtheners

Use a grip trainer, rice bucket, or resistance bands to build stronger forearms.
Focus: Durability, control under pressure.

4. Balance Board Drills

Stand on a balance board while stickhandling. Add one-foot variations or passing with a wall ball.
Focus: Lower body stability, edge control.

5. Mirror Movement Drill

Partner up. One person leads movements with stick and feet. The other mirrors exactly. Trade off.
Focus: Reaction time, agility, mimicry.

Train Like It’s Game Day

The best players don’t wait for ice time to improve. They show up every day.