For athletes, it is quite unusual to experience such a long training break. Lori-Ann and Thierry haven’t skated for the last month or so, though they still remain active. During the confinement period, it is necessary to stay physically fit no matter what. Lori-Ann says, “It’s pretty easy to lose your physical fitness, which is why off-ice training is essential. We have to make due with the little equipment we have, since we no longer have access to the gym.”
Without a skating facility, off-ice jumps are paramount in order to remember keywords while in full jump and keep the feeling of spinning in the air. The body seems to have a good muscle memory. In that sense, one must maintain his/her areal bearings as much as possible, in hopes to ease the return on the ice. Visualization is also an undeniable aspect. In a normal season, it plays a key role during performances. In a period of confinement, it is even more important to retain this habit to help memorize solos, technique and keywords.
Home workouts are fundamental. In this Internet age, bodybuilding training ideas abound in videos, and “live” sessions. Weather providing, jogging outdoors also helps the body and soul.
One must be creative but Lori-Ann sees this period as a different preparation for next season. When not underestimating the value of off-ice training, it has an undeniable impact on the on-ice performance to come.
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