Hockey is a unique sport that requires quick hands, quick feet and excellent hand-eye coordination—all at the same time. Dryland training for hockey needs to incorporate all these elements to be effective. An agility ladder is an excellent tool to help accomplish this task. Using an agility ladder is especially effective in developing footwork quickness, transitional movement and change of direction. These are all critical components to becoming a better hockey player.

Activities and drills for the agility ladder are limited by only your creativity. Most athletes, and certainly most trainers, are familiar with basic agility ladder use. This versatile tool should not be limited to basic use, however. Incorporating advanced hand-eye activity and upper body exercises helps make the ladder even more effective. Passing exercises, doing upper body movement while in the ladder and using the ladder as part of an obstacle course are examples of ways to make it a more effective—and fun—exercise.

I highly recommend getting an agility ladder and using it diligently. You will be amazed at how versatile it can be as an exercise, too. You will also be amazed at the results as your feet get quicker and you become a better hockey player!

Editor’s Note: Along with working with HockeyOT.com, Mike Beckman is a physical therapist and founder of Valley Rehabilitation Services. He has been in practice since 1986. He has worked with athletes at all levels and sports in both rehab and performance training.