Contemporary practices of strength & conditioning coaches in high-level male ice hockey: A survey-based investigation

The aim of this study was to provide an updated view of the common practices, ideologies, education level, and professional environment of strength and conditioning (S&C) coaches in elite male ice hockey. Nineteen S&C coaches from professional, semi-professional and top-tier collegiate hockey teams in North America completed an anonymous online survey. This was comprised of 10 sections: (a) background information; (b) technology use, (c) testing & periodization, (d) strength and power, (e) flexibility/mobility, (f) speed, (g) plyometrics, (h) aerobic and anaerobic conditioning, (i) rehabilitation, (j) challenges & areas of improvement. Fixed-response questions were analyzed via frequency analyses. Thematic analyses were used to identify common themes from open-response questions. S&C coaches had an average of eight ( 6.5) years of experience when they accepted their current role. The majority held a master’s degree and S&C certification. Muscular power, linear speed, and body composition were the most frequently tested qualities. Neuromuscular fatigue was the most important consideration during the season and least important consideration during the off-season. Training frequencies for all physical capacities were lower during the season compared to the off-season. All S&Cs had access to technology, with wearables, with force plates identified as the most used devices. This information may be used by S&C coaches to compare working practices to those used by their peers and inform them of the likely requirements and skill sets needed for job applications. Educational institutions may use this information to align teaching to current practice and to inform future research