The technique
This is a team game with five players on each side, each one with a stick to hit the ball in the direction of the opposing goal. Its played on a court, usually indoors, with maximum dimensions of 44 metres long by 22 wide, with a goal at either end. The goalies are the only players allowed to touch the ball with their bodies, which is why they wear a helmet and a special chest protector. The other players can only use their stick.

 

Difficulty
It is considered to be a sport of average to high difficulty, as it is an athletic sport combining speed, strength and stamina. It requires you to train for physical fitness and playing skills before you start. Physical training is the job of the team's trainer and should consist mainly of speed training, weights, abs, and stretches. The skills training, also down to the team's coach, should aim at improving your handling of the stick; pushing, striking, steering and dribbling the ball. This is the hard part.

 

The equipment
Here not just any old thing will do: special equipment is needed. Leave your gym kit and sports shoes in your locker. You�ll need to get some in line roller skates, and learn how to skate round the court on them while pushing a ball. You�ll also need some shin, elbow and knee pads, because let�s not kid ourselves, this is a not an entirely safe sport. And, of course you�ll need a stick.

 

The benefits
It is a lot of fun, but tiring and hard at the same time. The benefits are not immediate, though the aches and pains are afterwards! In the long term you may lose some weight, but mainly what you�ll do is firm up muscles, especially in your legs, and tone up your whole body.

It takes at least six months to really get to grips with the technique. In the meantime you will have put some strength into your upper body and arms and you�ll get the firmest glutes on the planet.
Not only that, but you�ll have fun and develop your sense of team spirit. Hockey will help you learn how to coordinate with other people. It�s certainly a good preparation for life in general.

Our recommendation
The best thing to do is go to your regional federation, and they can put you in touch with hockey clubs and schools in your city. Once you�ve signed on and paid your dues, you can make use of the trainer, use the court and get into a team. Best of luck!

 

WHERE TO GET INFORMATION
Here�s our hockey address book so you won�t get too lost while you�re starting: