Abstract
Previous studies have found that reduced stick stiffness increases puck velocity in young male ice hockey players. This study investigates the hypothesis that female players are disadvantaged by using equipment that is designed for taller and stronger players. The purpose of this study was to investigate if stick flexibility and puck weight affect puck velocity in standing slap shots performed by female ice hockey players. There was a significant increase in puck velocity (4.1%, p = 0.037) when stick stiffness and puck weight were reduced. ANOVA revealed that there was a significant correlation between stick, puck and the participant herself (R 2 = 0.987). Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed that participants with higher puck velocities benefitted the most when the stick flexibility and puck weight were reduced (r = 0.648, p = 0.043). It was concluded that decreased stick stiffness and puck weight increased puck velocity in standing slap shots for female ice hockey players.
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Acknowledgments
We would like to thank Bosön (the Swedish National Sports Development Centre) and Elitidrottscentrum Umeå, Sweden, for kindly lending us the IVAR, Professor Thomas Laitila for help with the ANOVA in the statistical analysis and Reebok JOFA AB, Sweden for the selection and supply of ice hockey sticks.
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Gilenstam, K., Henriksson-Larsén, K. & Thorsen, K. Influence of stick stiffness and puck weight on puck velocity during slap shots in women’s ice hockey. Sports Eng 11, 103–107 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12283-009-0015-6
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12283-009-0015-6