It goes without saying that National Hockey League players are happiest when they’re on the ice, doing their best to score points for their team and bedazzle their loyal fans in the stands. During the summer and the off-peak, they get some much-needed rest after which they hurry back to the slippery surface as soon as they can. However, the uncertain times brought about by the Coronavirus pandemic has forced most to take a break a little earlier than planned, leaving players with loads of free time on their hands. We’ll be taking a look at what activities NHL players have been engaging in since they’ve hung their skates up.
NHL Players – Off Ice
Not Surprisingly, They Stay in Shape
Every player, no matter whether they are on teams that make the playoffs or not, need some time to rest. This period of transition lasts between two to four weeks, during which the athletes have the opportunity to perform static recovery and later transition to active recovery. Having finished the transitional phase, hockey players move into full preparation and gradually work on improving their fitness. However, there are other factors that influence the length and intensity of the training process, such as previous injuries, placement in the playoffs and the athlete’s age. Older and more experienced players who have been training longer may not need to engage in an extensive volume of work in the off-season as a rookie player would.
They Spend Time With Their Families
Of course, all of these dedicated athletes try to spend as much time as possible with their immediate family, but what about all the other relatives? With the matches on hiatus, it’s the ideal time to visit or invite some of the cousins and in-laws they haven’t had the chance to catch up with earlier in the year, providing of course, that all safety measures are observed. Family time is extremely rejuvenating and provides a much needed (and, perhaps missed) aspect of their social life.
They Go Out
As with any other serious sport, being a professional hockey player requires a lot of sacrifices to be made. There’s no staying out late with mates, no drinking (and very often not even an occasional toast) and no junk food. In order to stay fit, focused and at the top of their game, hockey players need enough sleep, a healthy, balanced diet and early mornings full of exercise. Since they are disciplined enough to stick to a strict training schedule and lifestyle, having some time off when they can stay up late, with a few drinks, enjoying a greasy burger guilt-free is much welcomed.
They Play Games
Winning is hard-wired in the DNA of many of the greatest athletes, and this desire isn’t just reserved for exploits on the ice. A popular pastime for many, including hockey players, is feeling the rush of playing and winning games at a casino. The players are well versed in relying on both strategy and luck, and placing a bet keeps that itch at bay until they hit the ice again. With most brick & mortar establishments currently unavailable for punters, players have turned to some of the best online Canadian casinos for their gaming. With constant advancements in technology, NHL players are spoiled for choice when it comes to the type of games, freebies, bonuses and immersive graphics on offer. Fast-paced and available on the go, these digital games fit the hockey players’ lifestyle perfectly.
They Travel
Another thing that’s very appealing is changing the scenery from icy to exotic. Ice remains their first love, but the hot sun and the beach beckon irresistibly. This is the time when these athletes are free to roam in search of their favourite place where they can soak up the sun and, let’s be honest, show off their hard work striding along the beach in their speedos. Travelling provides a much-needed change after which they will definitely return home refreshed and ready for new challenges that await in the upcoming season.
Professional hockey requires a lot of sacrifices, patience and hard work, but that doesn’t mean that these dedicated athletes don’t know how to have fun. The off-season provides the long-awaited relief during which they recuperate and do their best to even the scales of the life-work balance.
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