If you are a skilled drag flicker and have little room to improve technically, becoming stronger can help you become a better drag flicker in field hockey. This can be done by improving your power generation, stability, injury prevention, and consistency.
- Squats: The drag flick motion in field hockey requires a lot of leg strength and power. Squats are a great exercise to strengthen the muscles in your legs, including your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. You can perform different variations of squats, such as barbell squats, dumbbell squats, or bodyweight squats.
- Deadlifts: Deadlifts are another exercise that can help you build leg strength and power, as well as improve your grip strength. They work your hamstrings, glutes, and lower back muscles. Again, there are different variations of deadlifts, such as Romanian deadlifts, sumo deadlifts, or trap bar deadlifts.
- Plyometric exercises: Plyometric exercises are explosive movements that can help you develop speed and power. Some examples of plyometric exercises that could benefit drag flickers include box jumps, depth jumps, and jump squats.
- Core exercises: Your core muscles are also important for generating power in your drag flick. Exercises such as planks, sit-ups, and Russian twists can help you strengthen your abs, obliques, and lower back muscles.
- Shoulder exercises: Your shoulders and upper back muscles are also involved in the drag flick motion. Exercises such as overhead presses, lateral raises, and rows can help you build strength in these areas.
Summary
It’s important to note that every athlete’s needs are different, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified coach or trainer to create a personalized workout plan that takes into account your individual strengths and weaknesses. Some players need to work more on their core, whilst others might improve more training their glutes. One last tip is not to over-practice, don´t just show up and shoot 50 balls. That will take its toll on your body. Patience and hard work well help you to becoming a stronger drag flicker.