Simplicity and consistency in hockey conditioning beat complexity and sporadic intensity—every time - Glenn Turner
Field hockey, at all levels, is prone to overcomplicated physical training. Coaches often default to introducing heavy lifts, complicated gym routines, or endless shuttle runs because these seem “elite” or simply because that’s what they see at the highest levels. Yet, as highlighted throughout this masterclass, the real key is building an aerobic and movement foundation—one that players can execute consistently, without requiring elite-level facilities or risking unnecessary injury.
As Turner explains, “I think it’s a lot simpler than it can be made out to be...I think we overcomplicate things through the strength and conditioning world.” Instead of rushing players into advanced strength work or technical gym lifts, coaches of all levels should double down on fundamental bodyweight movements—squats, lunges, push-ups, simple chin-ups—done well and done often. These should be embedded regularly, before or during training, setting a physical baseline that both minimizes injury and directly translates to hockey.
Why simplicity works:
Accessibility: You don’t need a full-time S&C coach, fancy equipment, or gym access.
Relevance: The nature of hockey is aerobic with intervals of high intensity. No exercise will replace the need for field-based running, but building strength for movement and basic aerobic capacity is non-negotiable.
Longevity: Turner is candid about injury pitfalls from poorly tailored programs: “I’ve seen too many injuries in hockey...ruining careers as well by programs that are designed for different things. Not designed to run around a hockey field for 60 or 70 minutes...” The logic is simple: master movement first, then layer on complexity later—if it’s even needed.
How to apply this, daily:
Incorporate bodyweight squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks in your warmup, regardless of age or level.
Make aerobic base (think simple continuous runs or steady intervals) part of players’ weekly homework, not just shuttle sprints on the field.
Focus on technical proficiency and volume with each movement before adding resistance.
Mix short “movement blocks” between hockey drills—turn bodyweight strength & mobility into a team routine, rather than a chore.
For all the talk about tailoring conditioning to playing position or individual needs, the biggest return comes from simply having every athlete move and run well—week in, week out. That’s where you keep players on the pitch and get the best from their skills, not just their fitness test scores.
“Fifty body weight reps at a good depth is way more beneficial for your hockey than three big reps of squats...you have to start on the foundation and the movement first.” – Glenn Turner
Why watch this session?
This workshop breaks down common misconceptions about hockey conditioning with real-world advice you can use straight away. Turner doesn’t just talk theory—he brings specific, actionable detail on how to balance technical and physical demands, adjust workloads over a long European season, and keep players motivated (even when they’re juggling work, study, or multiple teams). You’ll get practical tips on running warm-ups, simple testing and progression, and—crucially—the best, lowest-risk way to actually get your players fitter.
If you coach field hockey, at any level, and want an honest look at what works (and what doesn’t) in player conditioning—this is essential viewing.
Paid subscribers—read on for an extended breakdown of the top 3 actionable takeaways from this masterclass, plus detailed guidance on how to build a conditioning approach that actually works in the chaotic day-to-day of club hockey.
