MUSCLE ACTIVATION PATTERNS DURING AN ICE HOCKEY SLAP SHOT

Abstract

The ability to shoot the puck with maximum velocity and accuracy is one of the key components to optimal hockey performance. Of the many types of shots in hockey, the most powerful is the slap shot. A successful slap shot requires a combination of strength, speed, precise timing, and the proper stick choice (Pearsall et aI., 2000; Fergenbaum et aI., 2004). The slap shot consists of four key events -start, top of swing, impact and end. The muscle activation patterns during each of these phases are essential in designing training programs to improve shot velocity (Pan et aI., 1998) and may vary as a function of skill level (Woo, 2004). As such, the purpose of this study was to use three-dimensional kinematics and electromyography (EMG) to conduct a preliminary analysis of the muscle activation patterns during each phase of the slap shot in male, recreational and elite hockey players.