Professional ice hockey players: physiologic, anthropometric, and musculoskeletal characteristics

Abstract

Twenty-seven players from a National Hockey League (NHL) team were evaluated for maximal aerobic power, body composition, and muscle strength and flexibility upon reporting to training camp. Aerobic power was determined with a maximal treadmill exercise test. Body composition was determined by underwater weighing. Muscle strength of the internal and external shoulder rotator muscles and the knee flexors and extensors were determined isokinetically at 30 degrees/sec. Strength of the hip adductors was determined isometrically. The average (+/- standard error) maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) for all players was 53.4 +/- 0.8 ml x kg-1 x min-1. When players were grouped by their usual playing positions (Goalies = G, n = 4; Forwards = F, n = 15; and Defensemen = D, n = 8) there were no differences in VO2 max, resting or maximal heart rate, and exercise test duration. Although G (77.7 +/- 3.2 kg) were significantly lighter than D (88.5 +/- 1.9 kg) and F (86.1 +/- 1.9 kg), there were no significant differences between player positions in height or percentage of body fat (9.2 +/- 0.9%). Measures of absolute muscle strength and muscle strength adjusted for body weight were similar for G, F, and D. Goalies, however, had significantly more flexibility in the hip and groin musculature than F and D. Although team averages for muscle strength and flexibility were normal and symmetric, ten players (37%) exhibited significant musculoskeletal strength and flexibility deficits.