What is EXPLOSIVENESS?Updated 6 hours ago
What is Measured:
- Explosiveness shows the acceleration of the first 3 strides from a stop measured in G-force (g).
- Units of G-force [g] where 1g = 9.8 meters per second squared [m/s^2].
- Game Application: Explosiveness determines a player’s ability to win loose puck battles, close gaps, and create separation.
What Impacts Explosiveness:
Physical Strength: Muscular and overall body composition affects force production.
Skating Posture & Mechanics: Optimized form can improve Explosiveness
Knees bent
Strong edge engagement
Legs under the body
Proper hip hinge
- Style of Play: Many skaters who play a casual, low-effort style of play will have low explosiveness data compared to hard working players. For example:
- Player A constantly stops and starts when changing direction. Player B takes big wide turns. Player B will have lower explosiveness scores than Player A.
- Skating Efficiency: efficient skaters generate more force per stride
- Fewer strides needed to get from A →B.
Why it Matters:
- Explosiveness is the primary driver of top-end speed.
- Low top speed is often linked to low explosiveness.
- Explosiveness reflects how quickly a skater can generate powerful bursts. For example: initiating a sprint, driving out of tight turns, or accelerating after stopping. It’s measured in “G-force” (basically, how hard they push off and generate force into the ice).
How to Use It:
- Focus on Explosiveness and Power: Hockey is inherently a game of stop-and-start action, or "burstiness." Therefore, a critical factor in increasing stride speed (getting faster) is enhancing the player's explosiveness and power.
- Track Progress: Monitor improvement by tracking progress across monthly, seasonal, and all-time intervals.
- Contextual Comparison: Compare performance metrics between practice and game situations. Identify the gaps and use those as opportunities for improvement.
- Improving Low Scores: If Explosiveness is consistently low, try adding a focus on building strength in the gym and incorporating off-ice explosive movements, evaluating your skating posture, or assessing in-game performance.