The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Herbies in Hockey

Welcome to The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Herbies in Hockey, where we will dive deep into one of the most effective conditioning drills in the sport. If you’re an aspiring hockey player or a seasoned veteran, chances are you’ve heard the term herbies before. But do you know what they are and how to incorporate them into your training regimen? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about herbies, including their origin, benefits, drawbacks, different types, and how to incorporate them into your training. So let’s get started!

First, let’s define what herbies are. They are a type of conditioning drill that consists of skating from one end of the rink to the other while performing specific turns and crossovers. Originally used by the legendary coach Herb Brooks to condition his players during the Miracle on Ice, herbies have become a staple of hockey training programs across all levels.

Now that we know what herbies are, let’s explore their history and how they evolved to become the effective training tool they are today. We’ll also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of incorporating herbies into your training regimen and explore the different types of herbies and their purposes.

If you’re looking to take your hockey game to the next level, understanding herbies is crucial. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of what they are, how they can benefit your training, and how to incorporate them into your routine. Let’s get started!

What is a Herbie in Hockey?

If you’re new to the world of hockey, you may have heard the term Herbie being thrown around, but what exactly does it mean? In simple terms, a Herbie is a conditioning drill that involves skating around the rink at full speed without stopping, turning, or even slowing down. This drill is designed to improve a player’s endurance, speed, and agility, and is often used as a warm-up exercise before games or practices.

The term Herbie originated from the movie Miracle, which tells the story of the 1980 US Olympic Hockey Team. In the movie, the team’s coach, Herb Brooks, used this drill extensively during their training sessions to prepare them for the intense physical demands of the game.

The drill may sound simple, but it’s incredibly challenging and requires a lot of physical and mental toughness to complete. Players must maintain their speed and form while also managing their breathing and heart rate, making it an excellent exercise for building stamina and endurance.

While Herbies are most commonly associated with hockey, they can also be used in other sports such as soccer, football, and basketball. Regardless of the sport, the drill is an effective way to improve overall fitness and performance on the field or rink.

If you’re looking to improve your speed, endurance, and agility on the ice, incorporating Herbies into your training regimen is a great place to start. But before you do, it’s essential to understand the drill’s proper form and technique to ensure you’re getting the most out of your workout.

The Definition of a Herbie in Hockey

A Herbie is a type of training drill used in hockey to improve skating, endurance, and conditioning. In essence, Herbies are a combination of skating sprints, turns, and stops, performed over a set distance. The drill is named after Herb Brooks, the legendary ice hockey coach who popularized it as a part of his rigorous training regime for the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men’s Hockey Team.

The typical Herbie drill consists of skating across the width of the rink, stopping at the opposite end, then skating back to the starting point. The skater repeats this pattern multiple times, with the number of repetitions and distance covered varying depending on the level of the player’s skill and fitness.

Herbies are considered a staple of hockey training, with coaches and players alike utilizing the drill to improve endurance and stamina on the ice. In fact, Herbies are so prevalent that they have become synonymous with hockey training itself.

While the drill may seem simple, the physical demands of performing Herbies can be intense, making it an effective method for improving cardiovascular fitness and lower body strength.

In the following sections, we will explore the history of Herbies, the benefits and drawbacks of the training method, and how to incorporate it into your own hockey training regimen.

Origin and History of Herbies

Herbies have become a staple in hockey training regimens, but where did they originate? The term “Herbies” was coined by legendary coach Herb Brooks, who famously used the exercise to condition his team for the grueling 1980 Winter Olympics.

Brooks was known for his unorthodox training methods, and his focus on fitness and conditioning was ahead of its time. His team’s stunning victory over the Soviet Union, known as the “Miracle on Ice,” is one of the most iconic moments in sports history.

Today, many coaches and trainers continue to use Herbies as a way to improve their players’ endurance, speed, and agility on the ice. The exercise has become synonymous with intense, high-energy training sessions, and it is often used as a benchmark for testing a player’s overall fitness level.

Over the years, the exercise has evolved, with coaches and trainers putting their own spin on the classic drill. Some use variations that involve different movements or equipment, while others have developed new training methods entirely.

Despite the variations, the basic principles of Herbies remain the same: it’s a high-intensity exercise designed to push players to their limits and improve their on-ice performance.

The Inception of Herbies in Hockey

The origin of Herbies can be traced back to the 1970s when the legendary coach Herb Brooks began using them to train his team, the US Men’s Olympic Hockey Team.

Brooks believed that traditional skating drills were not enough to improve his players’ endurance and overall fitness levels, so he developed a series of grueling on-ice conditioning drills that became known as Herbies.

The term “Herbies” is a tribute to Brooks, who passed away in a car accident in 200Today, Herbies are a staple of hockey conditioning drills and are used by coaches at all levels of the game.

Herbies are not for the faint of heart – they require a high level of fitness, mental toughness, and determination to complete. But those who do put in the work can reap significant rewards in their performance on the ice.

Evolution and Popularity of Herbies in Hockey Training

While the origins of Herbies can be traced back to the military, their popularity in hockey training gained traction in the 1970s when legendary coach Herb Brooks incorporated them into his practice regimen. Brooks believed that Herbies helped build mental toughness, endurance, and team unity.

Since then, Herbies have become a staple in hockey training at all levels, from youth to professional. Coaches continue to modify and evolve the exercise to fit the needs of their players and team.

The use of Herbies has also spread beyond hockey and into other sports, such as soccer and football, as a way to build endurance and mental toughness.

Herbies have also gained attention and popularity through media, with movies like “Miracle” and “The Mighty Ducks” featuring the exercise prominently in their training scenes.

Overall, the evolution and popularity of Herbies in hockey training is a testament to their effectiveness in building endurance, mental toughness, and team unity, as well as their adaptability and versatility in various sports and training settings.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Herbies Training

Improved Endurance: One of the primary benefits of Herbies training is improved endurance. This training technique helps players to build cardiovascular endurance, which is essential for prolonged performance on the ice.

Increased Speed and Agility: Herbies training can help players increase their speed and agility. This technique focuses on quick direction changes, which can help players become more agile and nimble on the ice.

Risk of Injury: Like any high-intensity training, Herbies can increase the risk of injury. The quick directional changes and stops put a lot of strain on the legs, which can lead to injuries such as pulled muscles or torn ligaments.

Mental Toughness: Herbies can help players develop mental toughness. This training technique is physically demanding and mentally challenging, requiring players to push through fatigue and discomfort to complete the drills.

Overtraining: Herbies training can be physically and mentally exhausting, leading to overtraining if not done in moderation. Overtraining can result in decreased performance, fatigue, and an increased risk of injury.

Advantages of Herbies in Hockey Training

• Improved endurance: Herbies are a great way to build endurance and improve overall cardiovascular fitness. Players who regularly perform Herbies are likely to have better stamina and be able to maintain their performance for longer periods of time.
• Enhanced agility and quickness: The rapid changes in direction during Herbies help players develop quick feet and better agility on the ice, which can translate to improved performance in games.
• Team building: Herbies are often performed as a team, which can help build camaraderie and a sense of unity among players. It also fosters a competitive spirit among teammates and encourages them to push each other to perform better.
• Mental toughness: Herbies are physically demanding and mentally challenging, requiring players to push through fatigue and discomfort. This can help players develop mental toughness, which is an important attribute in hockey and in life.
• Practicality: Herbies can be done on the ice or off the ice, making them a versatile training tool that can be easily incorporated into any practice or workout routine.

While there are certainly advantages to incorporating Herbies into a hockey training regimen, there are also some potential drawbacks that should be considered. Keep reading to learn more about the potential drawbacks of Herbies in hockey training.

Potential Risks and Limitations of Herbies in Hockey Training

1. Increased risk of injury: Performing Herbies repeatedly can put excessive strain on the legs, knees, and hips, which can lead to muscle strains and other injuries. Athletes should be careful when performing Herbies and ensure they have proper form to minimize the risk of injury.

2. Not suitable for all players: While Herbies can be an effective training tool for many hockey players, they may not be suitable for all players. Those with pre-existing injuries, mobility issues, or other medical conditions may need to avoid performing Herbies or modify the exercise to suit their needs.

3. May not translate to on-ice performance: Although Herbies can improve cardiovascular fitness and endurance, they may not directly translate to on-ice performance. Skating involves a variety of movements that are different from those performed during Herbies, so players should incorporate other drills and exercises into their training regimen to improve their overall on-ice performance.

4. Not a substitute for skill development: While Herbies can be a useful tool for improving endurance, they should not be used as a substitute for skill development. Hockey players need to develop a range of skills, including skating, passing, shooting, and puck handling, to become well-rounded athletes.

Despite these potential risks and limitations, Herbies can still be a valuable addition to a hockey player’s training regimen if used properly. Coaches and trainers should provide proper guidance and instruction to athletes and ensure they are using appropriate form and technique to minimize the risk of injury and maximize the benefits of the exercise.

Comparison of Herbies with Other Hockey Training Methods

While Herbies have proven to be an effective training method for hockey players, they are not the only training method available. Speed training, for example, is another method that can help players improve their acceleration and speed on the ice. Strength training is also important for hockey players, as it helps them develop the power and endurance necessary to perform at a high level for an entire game.

Another popular hockey training method is puck handling drills, which can help players improve their stickhandling skills and overall control of the puck. Additionally, plyometric training can help players develop explosive power and increase their agility on the ice.

While these training methods all have their benefits, one advantage of Herbies is that they can improve a player’s endurance in a way that other methods may not. Herbies are designed to push players to their limits, helping them develop the mental and physical toughness necessary to perform at a high level throughout an entire game.

Another advantage of Herbies is that they can be done with a large group of players at once, making them a great team-building exercise. Other training methods may be more individualized, which can be beneficial for players who need to focus on specific skills, but Herbies can help bring the team together and improve overall team cohesion.

• Herbies focus on endurance and mental toughness.
• Speed training helps players improve acceleration and speed.
• Strength training develops power and endurance.
• Puck handling drills improve stickhandling and control.
• Plyometric training develops explosive power and agility.
• Each training method has its own unique benefits.

In the end, the best training method for a hockey player will depend on their individual needs and goals. Some players may benefit more from Herbies, while others may find that other methods help them improve more effectively. Ultimately, the most important thing is to find a training regimen that works for each player and helps them develop the skills and endurance necessary to perform at their best on the ice.

Different Types of Herbies and Their Purposes

There are different types of Herbies that can be incorporated into your hockey training routine, each serving a unique purpose. The first type is the Sprint Herbie, which is used to improve speed and explosive power. This type of Herbie involves short sprints of around 10-20 yards, followed by a brief rest period. The goal is to perform each sprint at maximum effort to improve acceleration and speed.

The second type is the Endurance Herbie, which is used to improve cardiovascular fitness and endurance. This type of Herbie involves longer sprints of around 50-100 yards, followed by a rest period that is equal to or slightly shorter than the sprint time. The goal is to maintain a steady pace throughout the exercise to improve stamina and endurance.

The third type is the Lateral Herbie, which is used to improve lateral movement and agility. This type of Herbie involves moving laterally from side to side in a quick and controlled manner. The goal is to improve balance, coordination, and speed in lateral movements, which are important skills in hockey.

Each type of Herbie can be adapted and modified to suit individual training needs. It is important to incorporate a variety of Herbies into your training routine to improve overall performance and prevent injury. By incorporating Herbies into your training, you can improve your speed, endurance, agility, and overall fitness, helping you to become a better hockey player.

Endurance-Based Herbies for Improving Stamina

Endurance-based Herbies are designed to improve a player’s stamina during a game. These Herbies are typically longer in duration and require players to push through fatigue. They help players develop mental and physical toughness, which is essential during long games.

One effective way to implement endurance-based Herbies is to increase the duration of each repetition. For example, instead of doing 10-second sprints, players can do 20-second sprints. Another way is to decrease the rest time between repetitions, forcing players to work harder during the recovery period.

Endurance-based Herbies are especially useful for forwards and defensemen who need to maintain their energy levels throughout the game. Players who struggle with fatigue during games can benefit greatly from incorporating these Herbies into their training regimen.

Speed-Based Herbies for Enhancing Agility and Quickness

Exercise Name	Muscle Group Targeted	Description
Skater Jumps	Legs and Core	Start in a semi-squat position with your knees bent and feet shoulder-width apart. Then jump sideways, extending one leg and keeping the other behind. Land on the extended leg and repeat on the other side.
High Knees	Legs and Core	Stand with your feet hip-width apart and then alternate lifting your knees as high as possible. Keep your core engaged and land on the balls of your feet.
Bear Crawls	Whole Body	Start on all fours with your hands shoulder-width apart and your knees bent. Move forward by stepping your right foot and left hand forward at the same time, then alternate with your left foot and right hand. Keep your back straight and your core engaged.
Agility Ladder Drills	Whole Body	Set up an agility ladder on the ground and perform a variety of drills including high knees, side shuffles, and hopping in and out of the squares. This improves coordination and agility.
Lateral Lunges	Legs	Stand with your feet hip-width apart and then take a big step to one side, keeping your toes pointing forward. Bend your knee and lower your hips to the ground while keeping your other leg straight. Push off the bent leg to return to standing and repeat on the other side.
Box Jumps	Legs and Core	Stand in front of a sturdy box or bench. Jump onto the box, landing with both feet and then jump back down. Increase the difficulty by adding height to the box or performing the exercise faster.

If you’re looking to improve your agility and quickness, incorporating speed-based herbies into your training routine can be incredibly effective. By focusing on explosive movements and quick footwork, these exercises can help you develop the physical skills you need to move faster and with more precision.

Skater jumps are a great example of a speed-based herbie that targets the legs and core. By jumping laterally, you engage the muscles in your legs and core in a way that can improve your overall stability and balance. Similarly, high knees and lateral lunges are excellent options for targeting the legs and core while also improving your flexibility and range of motion.

For a more whole-body workout, consider incorporating bear crawls and agility ladder drills into your routine. These exercises require full-body engagement and can help improve your coordination, balance, and overall athleticism.

How to Incorporate Herbies into Your Hockey Training Regimen

As a hockey player, you’re always looking for ways to improve your performance on the ice. One exercise that can help you do just that is the Herbie. Herbies are a great way to build endurance and agility, both of which are essential skills in hockey. Here are some tips for incorporating Herbies into your training regimen:

Start Slow – If you’re new to Herbies, it’s important to start slow and gradually increase the intensity of the exercise. Begin with a few sets of ten-yard sprints, and gradually increase the distance and number of sets.

Mix It Up – To keep your training fresh and challenging, consider mixing up your Herbie routine. You can vary the distance, number of sets, and even the direction of the sprints to keep your body guessing.

Combine with Other Exercises – To get the most out of your training, consider combining Herbies with other exercises that target similar muscle groups. For example, you could do Herbies followed by lunges or squats to build leg strength and endurance.

Set Goals – Finally, it’s important to set goals for your Herbie training. Whether it’s running a certain distance in a specific amount of time or completing a certain number of sets, having a goal will help keep you motivated and on track.

Incorporating Herbies into your training regimen can be a game-changer for your hockey performance. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to building endurance, agility, and speed on the ice.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Herbies to Your Hockey Training

Step	Description	Tips
Step 1:	Start with basic Herbies by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Place your hands on your hips and jump to one side, landing on the balls of your feet. Then jump to the other side and continue alternating sides for 10-15 seconds.	Focus on proper landing technique to prevent injury.
Step 2:	Add a hockey stick to the Herbies. Start in the same position as before, but this time hold your stick out in front of you with both hands. Jump to one side, bringing the stick with you and tapping it on the ground. Jump to the other side and repeat for 10-15 seconds.	Ensure the stick stays in front of you, and focus on maintaining good form throughout.
Step 3:	Incorporate a puck into the Herbies. Begin in the same position, with your stick and puck in front of you. Jump to one side, tap the puck with your stick, and land on the opposite foot. Jump to the other side, tap the puck, and continue alternating sides for 10-15 seconds.	Start with a stationary puck and progress to a moving puck as you improve.

As with any new exercise, it is important to gradually increase the difficulty level over time. Once you have mastered the basic Herbies, you can try incorporating them into your regular hockey training regimen. Begin with one set of 10-15 seconds and gradually increase the number of sets and duration over time. Remember to always focus on proper technique to maximize the benefits of the exercise and prevent injury.

Frequently Asked Questions