Female athletes have a different physiological profile than their male counterparts. As a result, female athletes have their own testing percentile scores in the HockeyOT.com training system. On some of the fitness tests, i.e. front & side planks, 1-leg balance, 90° squat and jump rope, their scores should match their male counterparts. On the tests that require leg strength & power or upper body strength, their testing score requirements are less. Regardless, female athletes have an obvious need for improved fitness in order to maximize their performance on the ice.

The following is the 80th percentile score for female players using the HockeyOT.com training program (click on the test name to see a video of that fitness test):

A female player that can achieve these scores has demonstrated:

1) adequate trunk/core endurance on the front and side plank tests

2) good horizontal leg power on the lateral stride hop test

3) good leg strength on the barbell deadlift test

4) good leg muscular endurance on the 90° squat to box test

5) good upper body muscular endurance on the push up test

6) good cardiovascular endurance on the jump rope test

7) good balance on the 1-foot balance test

If you are a healthy athlete, try these tests under the guidance of your hockey training specialist and see how you compare. At HockeyOT.com you can train like a pro and maximize your potential!

Dr. Chad Moreau is the President of HockeyOT.com, an online training site dedicated to improving the fitness level of hockey players of all levels. He was the former Strength & Conditioning/Nutrition Consultant for the Edmonton Oilers (NHL) and the Long Beach Ice Dogs (ECHL). For more information please visit hockeyot.com.