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    Info & Tips — sports

    10 Best Leg Workouts For Hockey Players (2024)

    10 Best Leg Workouts For Hockey Players (2024)

    Having the right kind of leg strength is essential for any hockey player, especially if they want to maintain their competitive edge.

    Hockey involves a lot of running, jumping, and lunging – all of which require strong legs to perform effectively.

    Leg workouts can help hockey players increase their speed, agility, and explosiveness on the ice.

    In this article we'll explore the benefits of leg workouts for hockey players, as well as some types of exercises and sample workouts that are ideal for the off-season and in-season.

    So lace up those skates; it's time to hit the gym!


    Train Year Round With Polyglide Synthetic Ice


     Types of Leg Exercises

    Leg exercises are an essential part of any hockey player's workout routine.

    Not only do they help to build strength and power, but they also improve agility and balance, which are key components of the game.

    There are a variety of different leg exercises that you can incorporate into your workout plan, including squats, lunges, step-ups, and calf raises.

    • Squats target all the major muscles in your lower body and can be done with weights or just your body weight for a more challenging workout.
    • Lunges help to build stability in the hips and thighs while strengthening your quads and glutes.
    • Step-ups are great for improving coordination as well as endurance since you have to lift one foot off the ground at a time during this exercise.
    • Calf raises target the small muscles in your calves which are important for skating movements on the ice.

    Whichever leg exercises you choose to include in your workout plan, make sure that you focus on proper form to avoid injury.

    With consistent training and dedication, these exercises will help you take your game to the next level!

    gym squats

    1. Squats

    Squats are an incredibly effective exercise for hockey players looking to increase their strength and power.

    Not only do they target all the major muscles in your lower body, but they also help with balance and coordination, which are essential components of the game.

    To do a proper squat, begin standing up straight with feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and toes pointed slightly outward.

    From there, bend your knees while keeping your chest lifted and back straight as you lower yourself down until your thighs are parallel to the ground.

    Then press through your heels to stand back up again.

    You can add weights or medicine balls to make it more challenging if needed. Remember to keep form at the forefront of your mind as you go through each rep - bad form could lead to injury! 

    2. Lunges

    Lunges are a great exercise for hockey players looking to increase strength and power.

    Lunges target all the major muscles in your lower body, including your glutes, quads, and hamstrings.

    They also help improve balance and coordination, which are essential components of the game.

    To do a proper lunge, start by standing with your feet hip-width apart and hands on hips.

    Then step forward with one foot and lower yourself down until both knees reach 90 degrees.

    Make sure that your front knee is aligned over your toes and not past them - this will help prevent any injuries!

    Finally, press through your heel to stand back up again.

    Repeat this same motion with the other leg and focus on keeping good form throughout each rep.

    step-ups 

    3. Step-Ups

    Step-ups are an excellent leg workout for hockey players looking to increase power and explosiveness.

    They target the same muscles as lunges, but also work your core and stabilizer muscles for added stability.

    To do a proper step-up, start by standing in front of a bench or box that is about knee-height.

    Step up with one foot onto the bench, pushing through your heel to stand straight up on top of it.

    Bring the other foot up so you are standing on top with both feet.

    Then carefully step back down with one foot at a time until you’re back in the starting position.

    Make sure to keep your chest high, your core tight, and your eyes forward throughout each rep. 

    4. Single-Leg Strength Drills

    Single-leg strength drills can significantly improve power and agility on the ice by targeting all the muscles in each leg along with core and stabilizer muscles.

    This will result in a more balanced strength overall.

    To perform a single-leg strength drill, begin by standing on one foot with the other foot off the ground.

    Gradually lean forward and extend your arms and legs out to the sides while keeping your chest lifted and core tight with each repetition.

    To increase the difficulty, you can add weights or resistance bands once you feel more comfortable with the exercise. 

    Regular practice of single-leg strength drills will help improve your balance and stability while playing hockey, so make sure to incorporate them into your routine!

    reverse lunge

    5. Reverse Lunges

    Reverse Lunges are an excellent leg workout for hockey players who want to increase their agility and speed on the ice.

    This exercise engages both your quadriceps and glutes, giving you a total lower body workout.

    To do a reverse lunge, start by standing with your feet hip-width apart.

    Take a large step backwards with one foot, then lower yourself down until both knees form 90 degree angles.

    Make sure to keep your chest up as you lower and push through your front heel to return back to the starting position.

    You can also add weights or resistance bands for an extra challenge.

    6. Trap Bar Deadlifts

    Trap Bar Deadlifts are one of the best leg exercises for hockey players who want to increase their power and explosiveness on the ice.

    This exercise targets all of your major lower body muscles, including your quads, hamstrings and glutes.

    To do a trap bar deadlift, set up with your feet slightly wider than hip-width apart with your toes pointed outwards.

    Grip the handles of the trap bar and keep your back flat as you lift the bar from the ground to hip level.

    Make sure to keep your knees slightly bent throughout the movement and drive through your heels on the way up.

    Trap bar deadlifts will help you develop explosive power so you can skate faster and hit harder on the ice - add them into your routine today!

    box jumps

    7. Plyometric Exercises

    Plyometric exercises are a great way for hockey players to build power and speed on the ice.

    These explosive movements target all of your major muscles, including your quads, hamstrings and glutes.

    A few examples of plyometric exercises include box jumps, single-leg hops and lateral bounds.

    To get started with these exercises, start by choosing a height that you feel comfortable jumping onto or hopping over.

    Begin by jumping onto the box or hopping in one direction then quickly reverse the direction as soon as you land. 

    8. Lateral Movement Drills

    Lateral movement drills are a great way for hockey players to improve their agility on the ice.

    These exercises involve moving sideways, and they can help you to quickly transition from one direction to the next while skating.

    To get started with lateral movement drills, you can practice shuffling, carioca or crossover steps.

    Shuffling steps involve taking quick, small steps in one direction, while carioca and crossover steps involve crossing your legs as you move side-to-side.

    As you practice these drills, focus on staying low to the ground and pushing off with your toes as you move from side-to-side.

    core training

    9. Core Training Exercises

    Core training exercises are essential for any hockey player looking to improve their performance on the ice.

    Core strength is important for stability and balance, as well as maintaining proper posture while skating.

    To work on your core, try exercises such as planks, mountain climbers, crunches and Russian twists.

    These exercises will help to strengthen your abdominal muscles and increase your overall core strength.

    Additionally, be sure to focus on breathing throughout each exercise as this will ensure that you get the most out of your workout and make the exercises more effective. 

    10. Calf Raises

    Calf raises are a great exercise for building calf strength and endurance.

    They are important for hockey players who need to be able to skate for extended periods of time.

    To perform a proper calf raise exercise, you should stand on a raised platform or step with the balls of their feet firmly planted on the edge of the platform.

    You then slowly lower your heels below the level of the platform, feeling a stretch in your calves.

    Then raise your heels as high as possible, holding the contraction for a second before slowly lowering back down to the starting position.

    It's important to perform the exercise in a slow and controlled manner, and to avoid bouncing or jerking movements.

    Gradually increasing the weight or resistance used for the exercise can help the athlete build calf strength and endurance over time..


    Train Year Round With Polyglide Synthetic Ice


    Range of Motion & Starting Position Basics for Hockey Leg Workouts

    Incorporating proper range of motion and starting position basics are key factors for successful leg workouts among hockey players.

    Achieving full range of motion during exercise helps prevent injuries and allows for maximum results, while a comfortable starting position allows for proper form.

    While performing leg workouts, ensure you are moving through a full range of motion and begin in a comfortable standing or seated position.

    Keep your back straight, head up, and spine and neck aligned throughout the exercise.

    Prioritizing proper range of motion and starting position can increase the effectiveness of your workouts while reducing the risk of injury.

    By focusing on proper range of motion and starting position during your leg workouts, you’ll be able to maximize the effectiveness of each exercise while reducing the risk of injury.

    Now that you have a better understanding of these basics, let’s take a look at another important element: proper body alignment and posture!

     posture

    Proper Body Alignment and Posture

    Maintaining proper body alignment and posture is crucial when performing leg workouts, as it can prevent injury and enhance results.

    To ensure proper alignment, begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, keeping your head up, back straight, and knees slightly bent.

    Relax your shoulders, avoiding hunching forward or lifting them up.

    Maintaining correct posture throughout the exercise will help engage your core and avoid straining other parts of your body.

    Focusing on proper body alignment and posture while performing leg workouts can maximize the effectiveness of each exercise while reducing the risk of injury.

    Maintaining Good Form Throughout the Exercise Movements

    Maintaining good form during exercise movements is vital to achieve optimal results and prevent injuries that can hinder your progress.

    The focus should be on the movement pattern instead of the weight lifted.

    Maintaining a neutral spine with an engaged core throughout the exercise is crucial. Keep your shoulders down and back, chest up, and knees slightly bent.

    Practice slow, controlled movements with continuous control of the weight. If you feel any discomfort, stop immediately and adjust your posture.

    Prioritizing proper form during exercise movements can maximize the effectiveness of each workout while reducing the risk of injury.

    hockey gear

    Working Out During the Off-season vs. During the Hockey Season

    During the hockey season, it can be difficult to fit in time for a good workout.

    With practice and games taking up the majority of your time, it's important to focus on training that will have the greatest impact on your performance.

    Off-season workouts are great for building strength, power, and endurance – All essential components of success on the ice.

    However, during the season you should focus more on corrective exercises and mobility drills that will help you stay healthy throughout the year.

    Workouts during this time should also be shorter in duration and involve less overall volume to avoid fatigue and injury.

    By taking a focused approach to working out both during the offseason and regular season, you can maximize your performance while staying healthy!

    By staying focused on your specific needs during the season and offseason, you can optimize your performance and stay healthy. Ready to take it up a notch?

    Check out our Sample Off Season Lower Body Workout For Hockey Players for some great exercises to get you in game shape!

    off season hockey player

    Sample Off-Season Lower Body Workout For Hockey Players

    Hockey players need to stay in top physical shape during the off-season if they want to maximize their performance when the season starts.

    A great way to do just that is with a sample off-season lower body workout designed specifically for hockey players.

    This type of workout should focus on building strength, power and endurance.

    The Sample Off Season Lower Body Workout For Hockey Players includes exercises like squats, lunges, step-ups, hip thrusts, and lateral jumps.

    These exercises will help you develop both power and endurance for better performance on the ice.

    Additionally, these workouts can help improve your speed, agility, and flexibility which are all important aspects of playing hockey at an elite level.

    By incorporating this sample off-season lower body workout into your training routine, you’ll be able to take your game to the next level while also avoiding fatigue and injury during the regular season.

    So don’t wait - start using this sample off-season lower body workout today to ensure you're making the most out of every practice and game!


    Train Year Round With Polyglide Synthetic Ice


    Sample 2 Day Per Week Workout:

    Day 1:

    1. Squats - 4 sets x 8 reps
    2. Lunges - 3 sets x 10 reps (each leg)
    3. Single-leg deadlifts - 3 sets x 12 reps (each leg)
    4. Reverse lunges - 2 sets x 15 reps (each leg)
    5. Plyometric box jumps - 3 sets x 8 reps
    6. Lateral movement drills - 3 sets x 30 seconds (each direction)
    7. Plank - 3 sets x 30 seconds

    Day 2:

    1. Trap bar lunges - 4 sets x 8 reps
    2. Step-ups - 3 sets x 10 reps (each leg)
    3. Bulgarian split squats - 3 sets x 12 reps (each leg)
    4. Single-leg calf raises - 2 sets x 15 reps (each leg)
    5. Plyometric lateral bounds - 3 sets x 8 reps
    6. Core rotations - 3 sets x 12 reps (each side)
    7. Side plank - 3 sets x 30 seconds (each side)

    Perform this workout plan twice a week, with at least one day of rest between each session.

    Ensure you use a weight that challenges you, but that you can perform with good form.

    As you progress, consider increasing the weight, reps, or sets to continue challenging your body.

    Remember to warm-up thoroughly before starting any workout and to stretch and cool down after.

    Also, consult with a healthcare professional or certified trainer before starting any new exercise program to ensure it's safe for you.

    workout calendar

    Sample 4 Day Full Body Workout:

    Day 1: Upper Body

    1. Bench Press - 4 sets x 8 reps
    2. Lat Pulldowns - 3 sets x 10 reps
    3. Overhead Press - 3 sets x 12 reps
    4. Bent Over Rows - 2 sets x 15 reps
    5. Bicep Curls - 3 sets x 8 reps
    6. Tricep Extensions - 3 sets x 8 reps
    7. Plank - 3 sets x 30 seconds

    Day 2: Lower Body

    1. Squats - 4 sets x 8 reps
    2. Lunges - 3 sets x 10 reps (each leg)
    3. Single-leg deadlifts - 3 sets x 12 reps (each leg)
    4. Reverse lunges - 2 sets x 15 reps (each leg)
    5. Plyometric box jumps - 3 sets x 8 reps
    6. Lateral movement drills - 3 sets x 30 seconds (each direction)
    7. Plank - 3 sets x 30 seconds

    Day 3: Rest

    Day 4: Upper Body

    1. Dumbbell Flys - 4 sets x 8 reps
    2. Seated Cable Rows - 3 sets x 10 reps
    3. Arnold Press - 3 sets x 12 reps
    4. Pull-ups - 2 sets x 15 reps
    5. Hammer Curls - 3 sets x 8 reps
    6. Skull Crushers - 3 sets x 8 reps
    7. Side Plank - 3 sets x 30 seconds (each side)

    Day 5: Lower Body

    1. Trap bar lunges - 4 sets x 8 reps
    2. Step-ups - 3 sets x 10 reps (each leg)
    3. Bulgarian split squats - 3 sets x 12 reps (each leg)
    4. Single-leg calf raises - 2 sets x 15 reps (each leg)
    5. Plyometric lateral bounds - 3 sets x 8 reps
    6. Core rotations - 3 sets x 12 reps (each side)
    7. Side plank - 3 sets x 30 seconds (each side)

    Day 6-7: Rest

    workout whistle

    Get Started!

    Perform this workout plan twice a week, with at least one day of rest between each session.Ensure you use a weight that challenges you, but that you can perform with good form.

    As you progress, consider increasing the weight, reps, or sets to continue challenging your body.

    Remember to warm-up thoroughly before starting any workout and to stretch and cool down after.

    Also, consult with a healthcare professional or certified trainer before starting any new exercise program to ensure it's safe for you.

    Here's a few off-ice rink packages to add a little "spice" to your off-season workout routine: POLYGLIDE PRO-GLIDE RINK PACKAGE

     

    Inflatable Party Rental: 5 Advantages of Adding Synthetic Ice

    Inflatable Party Rental: 5 Advantages of Adding Synthetic Ice

     Parties were once a simple affair.

    All you needed was good food, good music, and a great atmosphere.

    Today, people looking for exciting and innovative experiences.  

    More and more event planners and part businesses are seeking to meet the demand, especially inflatable party rental businesses.

    If you own an inflatable party rental business, you probably have all the bounce houses, slides, and other fun inflatables in your arsenal. 

    However, to truly stand out and meet the ever-growing expectations of customers, adding synthetic ice to your inflatable party rental business can offer several distinct advantages.

    It's a way to truly serve your clients and capitalize on the millions of ice skaters looking to have fun during the Holidays. 

    ENJOY THE LEAST AMOUNT OF SKATE BLADE FRICTION WITH POLYGLIDE SYNTHETIC ICE


    synthetic ice attraction

    Synthetic Ice as a Unique Attraction

    For the uninitiated, synthetic ice are special panels that connect to form a skatable ice rink.

    Each panel is made of durable polyethylene combined with other patented materials to give a smooth finish that's functional and durable for ice skate blades.

    You simply measure the size of your space, purchase the necessary panels and connect them to form the rink.

    Each panel has edges that allow them to connect to the other like a puzzle piece.

    From there, you add rink walls and other safety accessories to complete an "ice rink" that does not need water, refrigeration, or cold temperatures to operate. 

    Offering synthetic ice as part of your rental business can set you apart from your competitors.

    Commercial spaces like malls, hotels, and play houses often rent synthetic ice rinks for the Holdiays to attract customers. 

    For a business centered around events and entertainment, buying a synthetic ice rink outright to rent to others can be a long-term, lucrative venture. 

    While bounce houses are popular choices for party rentals, adding synthetic ice can provide a unique and exciting attraction that is sure to draw in a new niche of customers. 

    inflatable bounce house

    Making Your Inflatable Party Rental Trendy

    With an inflatable party rental business, you have the opportunity to provide fun and entertainment for various events and occasions.

    It also allows you to stay ahead of the competition by constantly adding new and exciting attractions to your inventory.

    With a rental business, you can also capitalize on current trends and make your offerings more appealing to customers.

    Moreover, you can customize your offers with different themes or characters and more.

    One way to surely boost your inflatable party rental business and make it trendy is by adding synthetic ice to your inventory.

    Here are five reasons why adding synthetic ice to your inflatable party rental business can be advantageous:

    Reason #1: Year-round entertainment

    Regardless of the weather and season, synthetic ice can surely be enjoyed by your customers and their guests year-round.

    A hot summer day or a cold winter night won't stop the fun on synthetic ice.

    It may also be set up either indoors or outdoors, offering flexibility and expanding your potential customer base.

    In the colder months, you're less likely to get rentals for inflatable houses or slides, especially outdoors.

    Synthetic ice allows your party rental business to provide entertainment during a time where spending is higher. 

    Reason #2: Diversification of services

    For businesses to grow and thrive, there are only three options:

    1. Raise your prices.
    2. Increase the frequency which customers buy.
    3. Provide different services.

    Offering synthetic ice as part of your inflatable party rental business adds a new dimension to your offerings.

    It allows you to diversify your services and cater to a wider range of events and occasions.

    From holiday parties and winter festivals to corporate team-building events and birthday celebrations, synthetic ice can be a versatile addition that appeals to various customer needs.

    You'll continue to add to your bottom line as the product can last 10+ years from one investment. 

    Reason #3: Unique party experiences? Yes, please!

    Adding synthetic ice to your inflatable party rental business can provide customers with a unique and unforgettable party experience.

    You can pitch ice skating birthday parties, corporate events, product launches, and much more. 

    Guests will have the opportunity to skate and glide on a surface that feels like real ice, creating a fun and exciting atmosphere.

    Not only will this delight children and adults alike, but it will also create lasting memories for everyone involved.

    Reason #4: Rental business sustainability

    Aside from the immediate benefits of attracting customers and diversifying your services, adding synthetic ice to your inflatable party rental business can contribute to its long-term sustainability.

    The party rental business is competitive, with multiple options available in your city.

    How can you stand out?

    By offering a unique attraction like synthetic ice, you are establishing your business as innovative and adaptable to changing customer preferences.

    This can help ensure that your rental business remains relevant and in demand for years to come.

    Reason #5: An excellent marketing tool

    Incorporating synthetic ice into your inflatable party rental business can serve as an excellent marketing tool.

    By promoting your new synthetic ice offering through social media, online advertisements, and word-of-mouth, you can generate buzz and attract potential customers who are seeking a unique and exciting party experience.

    Adding influencers, holding ice skating events, and attending sales expos are just some of the ways you can leverage your new rink to bring in more clients. 

    Furthermore, promoting the use of synthetic ice as an alternative to traditional ice for winter sports and activities can also be a valuable marketing strategy.

    It highlights your business as forward-thinking and environmentally conscious, which can resonate with customers who prioritize sustainability.

     choosing the right synthetic ice

    Choosing the Right Synthetic Ice

    Synthetic ice is an investment that can greatly benefit your inflatable party rental business.

    Yet, it is crucial to choose a high-quality and durable synthetic ice product that will withstand heavy use and provide a realistic ice skating experience for your customers.

    Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right synthetic ice for your rental business:

    #1: Product Durability and Longevity

    One of your primary considerations when choosing the right synthetic ice for your rental business should be its durability and longevity.

    Remember that you would be offering the synthetic ice for rental purposes, which means it will be subject to frequent and heavy use.

    Therefore, you should carefully choose a synthetic ice product that is built to withstand wear and tear, ensuring that it will last for a long time without losing its quality or functionality.

    Additionally, selecting a synthetic ice product with a long lifespan will help maximize your return on investment and minimize the need for frequent replacements or repairs.

    This will contribute to the sustainability of your business and reduce long-term costs.

    #2: Installation and Maintenance Requirements

    Another important factor to consider when choosing the right synthetic ice for your rental business is the installation and maintenance requirements.

    You want to select a synthetic ice product that is relatively easy to install and maintain, as this will save you time, effort, and money in the long run.

    It's best to choose a synthetic ice product that does not require extensive and complicated installation processes or special equipment.

    This will allow you to quickly set up and dismantle the synthetic ice rink for each rental, making your business more efficient and profitable.

    Maintenance should also be minimal, with simple cleaning and upkeep procedures that can easily be incorporated into your regular operations.

    #3: A Realistic Skating Experience

    In order to provide an enjoyable experience for your customers, it is important to choose a synthetic ice product that offers a realistic skating experience.

    To achieve this, consider selecting a synthetic ice product that has been specifically designed and engineered to replicate the characteristics of traditional ice skating.

    This includes factors such as the glide and feel of the synthetic ice surface, which should closely mimic that of real ice.

    Additionally, the durability of the edges and the ability to support various skating maneuvers, such as turns and stops, are critical for creating an authentic and immersive skating experience.

    Furthermore, the synthetic ice should have a high-quality interlocking system that ensures a seamless and secure connection between the panels, preventing any shifting or separation during use.

     polyglide synthetic ice

    PolyGlide Ice Pro-Glide Infused Panel Is Perfect For Your Business

    The good news is you don't have to search far and wide to find a synthetic ice product that meets all of these criteria.

    The PolyGlide Ice Pro-Glide Infused Panel is the ideal choice for your rental business. This synthetic ice product offers several key advantages that make it perfect for your business.

    Firstly, the PolyGlide Ice Pro-Glide Infused Panel is designed with ease of installation and maintenance in mind.

    It features a straightforward installation process that does not require any special equipment or complicated procedures.

    This allows you to quickly and efficiently set up and dismantle the synthetic ice rink for each rental, saving you valuable time and effort.

    Additionally, the PolyGlide Ice Pro-Glide Infused Panel requires minimal maintenance.

    Using the PolyGlide Ice Pro-Glide Infused Panel for your business will also ensure that you can provide a realistic and enjoyable skating experience for your customers, as it closely replicates the feel and glide of real ice.

    Other Elements You Can Add

    As you aim to provide a unique and fun experience to your customers and their partygoers, you need to provide a complete set-up that includes additional elements beyond just the synthetic ice rink itself.

    Re recommend investing in other elements, such as  rental skates of different sizes, protective gear and helmets.

    To help beginners, you may also consider offering skating aids, such as walkers, which can help provide stability and support for those new to skating, minimizing liability and the risk of injury.

    Additionally, to enhance the overall atmosphere, you can consider adding decorative elements like lighting, music, and seating areas for spectators.

    By creating a comprehensive and inviting environment, you can ensure that your business stands out and provides an exceptional skating experience for all customers.

    unforgettable experience

    Conclusion

    Your rental business can make any event truly unforgettable by offering synthetic ice skating.

    Including synthetic ice in your product offerings can help your business attract more customers and stand out in the competitive market.

    Not only will your customers have the opportunity to enjoy a unique and exciting activity, but they will also be able to experience the thrill of skating on a surface that closely resembles real ice.

    This can be a major draw for individuals and groups looking to host special events, such as birthday parties, corporate team-building activities, or even holiday gatherings.

    By providing the option for synthetic ice skating at these events, you can create a memorable and captivating atmosphere that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

    Lastly, using Poly-Gldie Ice Pro-Glide infused panels ensures that your customers will have a smooth and realistic skating experience, further adding to the enjoyment and success of any event.

     

     

    Synthetic Ice: How To Build and Maintain Your Backyard Rink

    Synthetic Ice: How To Build and Maintain Your Backyard Rink

    The backyard ice rink has a long history....almost as long as people have been lacing-up!

    Ice skating is one of the oldest sports known and one of the first in the London Olympics in 1908.

    Since then, the sport has evolved to different disciplines including short speed skating and long speed skating.

    Ice skating also added team sports to the mix with hockey, curling, and other amazing sports.

    However, that meant avid skaters did not have access to skating facilities in the offseason.

    The creation of indoor rinks allowed ice skating year-round, but there was still one underserved group:

    the synthetic ice skating rink

    What is an Synthetic Ice Skating Rink?

    Artificial ice skating rinks are made of a strong, interlocking polymer sheet.

    The panels come infused with a self-lubricating compound that reduces friction and creates a fantastic skating experience. Some panels are non-infused and need occasional treatment with a gliding compound.

    The panels. could be cut into almost any shape, with rectangular panels the most popular.

    The panels connect like puzzle pieces and cover a large surface area.

    The area is cordoned off using plywood, or special boards, then a topper to make the rink look polished.

    One popular public rink is the Rockefeller Center, with several rinks popping up in malls, fairs, and amusement parks around the world. 

    backyard ice rink

    Moving to the backyard

    As synthetic panels became more affordable and accessible, hundreds of people across the country started creating their own artificial ice skating rinks.

    With all that space in the backyard, why not a backyard ice rink?

    It’s a great training tool for advanced ice skaters, figure skaters, and hockey players.

    Newcomers can have a fun space to learn skating and playing their favorite ice sport.

    However, there are some key steps everyone should take to build and maintain their backyard artificial ice skating rink.

    Choose your space

    Based on the size space you have available, you may have some options as to where you’ll place your backyard ice rink.

    That will also determine theoverall size.

    Make sure to avoid excess water or areas that could potentially damage your skating space.

    Choose Your Tools.

    The panels easily fit into each other, so you will need just a few tools to create the perfect rink.

    Helpful tools include a measuring tape, a level, and a soft mallet.

    If the rink will be self-contained, you will need boards for the enclosure.

    Depending on the size of the rink, you may need to recruit some help.

    Keep a level head

    It’s important to start out with a level surface area in the back yard.

    Artificial ice panels usually need hard surface but most backyards are grass-filled.

    An uneven surface can create a poor skating experience. Furthermore, uneven surfaces affect the longterm durability of your panels.

    Find the most even ground in the backyard.

    If your backyard space has no grass or soil, that’s perfect.

    In the event the ground is made of dirt and uneven, try filling the uneven spaces with soil.

    That would help when it’s time to lay down the subfloor. 

    Measure twice, cut once

    Mark the area you’re going to use with some string after measuring with tape.

    That way you can calculate how many artificial panels you will need for the rink.

    Rink builders can waste time and money by ordering too many or few artificial panels.

    Feel free to contact the company to help estimate the panels you’ll need.

    You can actually save time and money by purchasing 1-2 large panels instead of smaller panels. 

    Time For a Subfloor

    With the panels in your possession, it’s time to decide on the subflooring.

    Do you need a sub-flooring? Well, it depends. If the yard is grass, sub-flooring is crucial.

    Even a paved surface may have uneven parts.

    An underlay such as ¾” plywood panels can help create a smooth skating experience.

    Measure the area and install the subfloor or deck before installing the artificial ice panels.

    Connecting your artificial ice panels

    Artificial panels come with interlocking edges for a smooth installation.

    Make sure the panels connect smoothly and fit well on top of the sub-flooring panel.

    Make sure to check the panels to make sure they are level. Use a level tool if necessary.

    Based on the size of the panels, you will need help to move them and fit them into place.

    Adding the boards

    To finish the rink, you may want to install some barriers. Ice skating may not need these boards.

    Ice hockey, however, can get a bit physical.

    Also, a hockey puck can travel at rapid speeds and damage the surrounding property.

    A dasher board is the lower part of the rink enclosure.

    Rink owners can opt for flexible plywood. In some cases, you can also use a similar polyethylene material to the ice panels.  

    Install the dasher board using brackets to fasten them to the boards.

    The boards cannot be fastened to the artificial ice panels.

    Those brackets can damage the panels in the long run.

    However, you can attach the dasher boards to the ground or subflooring.

    Install the panels around the space, leaving an open part for easy entry and exit. 

    Maintenence

    A backyard ice rink can be fun for ice skating and hockey for your family.

    Synthetic panels are durable and usually lasts for several years.

    However, properly maintaining your rink makes sure this happens.

    There are some simple steps to take to make sure your rink stays fresh and even improves with quality over time.

    Cleaning your artificial ice rink

    A common question we get is “can I use my regular skates on artificial panels?”

    Yes, you can!

    Metal skates work well and will not damage your rink.

    Hard stops and turns, however, will create shavings, which is normal.

    Grooves in the panel actually improve the skating experience.

    You can clear the shavings with a soft broom.

    Over time, the rink will accumulate dust and dirt.

    Skating will leave grooves in the panels which can get scuffed.

    More importantly, dirt can increase friction, which can create a poor skating experience.

    Based on how often you and your family use the rink, clean the panels once weekly.

    Spray or spread a simple surface cleaner over the rink.

    Then use a clean mop to remove the dirt.

    Both infused and non-infused surfaces need to be cleaned based on the frequency of use. 

    Dealing with the weather

    If the rink is in the backyard, it will have to deal with different types of weather during the year.

    When installing the panels and dasher board, make sure there is space at the edges.

    Artificial panels, like laminate flooring, can expand with rising temperatures.

    Those hot summer days will be great for skating, however, be aware of other changes in weather.

    While some water on the rink is harmless, excess rain can reduce the life of the panels.

    During the months with excess rain, you will need to cover the rink when it’s not in use.

    Use a large tarp or other water-resistant covering. 

    The same goes for winter months if you live in an area that’s prone to snow.

    A frozen, artificial ice rink sounds like more fun. But ice can damage the artificial panels.

    As counterintuitive as it sounds, make sure to cover the rink during the winter. 

    Resurface your rink for best results

    Over time, you may feel like your skating experience is diminishing, even with excellent care.

    Like a car you’ve had for years, your infused and non-infused surfaces can use an occasional tune-up.

    Make sure to get a synthetic ice conditioner.

    The liquid is made of the same compound that gives the panels its skating ability. T

    o apply, mix some of the synthetic conditioner with some water and add to a spray bottle.

    Then mist it over the panel. You’ll have a skating experience that’s comparable to your neighborhood ice rink.

    Conclusion

    Artificial ice skating panels have evolved over the years.

    Now they emulate the skating experience, are easy to install, and lasts for years.

    It’s no wonder that skating enthusiasts are choosing to create their own skate spaces in the backyard. 

    Use your imagination when skating.

    Play ice hockey with your kids and friends, pick up a new sport, shoot some video for YouTube, or practice your figure skating moves.

    At the same time, it’s important you maintain the rink. 

    Make sure to remove dirt with a simple cleaner occasionally.

    Avoid harsh chemicals that can strip the panels and cause excess friction.

    Make sure to protect the rink with a cover during harsh weather conditions. Treat your rink with a fresh coat of conditioner every now and then. 

    If you need help with building and maintaining your artificial ice rink, don’t hesitate to contact us.

    We can guide you with the right type, size of panels, and tools to build and maintain your space.

    Most of all, we love helping our customers with their DIY rink projects!