When integrating core exercises into a training program, it’s helpful to categorize the exercises based on the pattern of movement or control: Anterior, Lateral, Diagonal, Rotational. Keeping the pattern in mind, there are several different exercises using different pieces of equipment that can be used to target specific areas. This allows athletes some flexibility in… Read more
There are many ways to individualize a training program to make it more specific to an athlete’s needs. One simple way is to skip phases of an off-season program NOT relevant to the athlete’s needs to create additional time for the athlete to cycle through phases more specific to their goals. This table is from… Read more
Over the last few months, I’ve shared examples of how an athlete’s speed or conditioning can be limited by different factors, and how game demands vary by position in ice hockey. The reality is that every athlete is starting from a unique place, and therefore requires a specific path to get from where they are… Read more
Over the years I’ve received a lot of questions worded something like “What’s the best exercise I can do to improve speed (or power, or lower body strength, etc.)”. The allure of the “best exercise” also appears in mainstream media, where we regularly see articles with titles that start with “Top 10 exercises for…” There… Read more
Lateral and rotational jumps can help goalies improve the speed at which they get across the crease. One piece of feedback I’ve heard from goalies over the years is that after going through a training phase to improve speed/power, they OVER push, and end up past the position they need to be in. A couple… Read more
Kevin has rapidly established himself as a leader in the field of physical preparation and sports science for ice hockey. He is currently the Head Performance Coach for the Boston Bruins, where he oversees all aspects of designing and implementing the team’s performance training program, as well as monitoring the players’ performance, workload and recovery. Prior to Boston, Kevin spent 2 years as an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach for the San Jose Sharks after serving as the Director of Performance at Endeavor Sports Performance in Pitman, NJ. He also spent 5 years as a Strength and Conditioning Coach with USA Hockey’s Women’s Olympic Hockey Team, and has been an invited speaker at conferences hosted by the NHL, NSCA, and USA Hockey.
“I have had the privilege of interacting with Kevin Neeld for some years now. His depth of knowledge in the areas of Human Performance and Strength and Conditioning is only surpassed by his passion and enthusiasm for his profession. He truly is a great resource for anyone who trains athletes at any level.”
Pete Friesen, Head Trainer / Strength & Conditioning Coach for the Carolina Hurricanes
Adjunct Professor Duke University, School of Physical Therapy