Snow and ice
Ice hockey
Fast, physical and thrilling on ice.
- Very hardintensity
- ~560kcal per hour
- Higher costbudget
- Highimpact
Is ice hockey right for you?
Fast, physical and thrilling on ice. It is a very hard-intensity, high impact activity that you can do indoors, in a group. Expect to burn around 560 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.
Best learned with a coach. Lessons, hire or kit make this one of the pricier options, so try a taster first.
Why try ice hockey
- Improves fitness. It raises your heart rate and builds stamina.
- Teaches a skill. There is always something new to learn, which keeps it interesting.
- Sociable. It is an easy way to meet people and have fun.
How to start ice hockey
Join a learn-to-play programme at your local rink.
Get the basics: full protective kit. Borrow or hire before you buy.
Book a few lessons. Good coaching at the start saves months of frustration.
Tell the coach you are new. A good club will pair you with a careful partner and build contact up slowly.
A 4-week starter plan
| Week | Sessions | Minutes each | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 15 | Learn the basics and keep every session easy. |
| 2 | 2 | 20 | Repeat last week and add a little time. |
| 3 | 3 | 25 | Add a session or make one a bit harder. |
| 4 | 3 | 30 | Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next. |
This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.
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Not sure ice hockey is for you?
Take the two-minute quiz and we will match you with activities that fit your goals, mood, budget and fitness.