Playing Hockey at 70-Plus

Playing Hockey at 70-Plus

Senior hockey players are redefining the game

Back in the day, if you were 60 years old you were considered elderly and treated as such. Even by today’s standards, the idea of playing hockey at 70-plus or even into your 80s might sound far fetched. But for a growing number of dedicated senior hockey players, the rink remains their sanctuary—a place where age is just a number, and the love of the game triumphs over everything else.

More and more, senior hockey leagues across North America are seeing players lace up their skates in their seventh and eighth decades of life. These athletes aren’t just showing up—they’re competing, staying active, and inspiring others, including their more youthful teammates.

Any way you slice it, staying on the ice safely at this stage of life takes careful planning, disciplined fitness, and mindful precaution.

The Joy of the Game

First and foremost, playing hockey at 70-plus offers profound physical, mental, and social benefits. The cardiovascular workout from skating helps maintain heart health. The need for balance, agility, and quick reaction times keeps the brain sharp and the body coordinated. And let’s not overlook the camaraderie—locker room banter, team celebrations, and the shared joy of the game create a social fabric that combats loneliness and boosts mood.

The Ultimate Ice Hockey Trainer

Exercise: The Off-Ice Foundation

If you’re aiming to play into your 70s or 80s (or beyond), your off-ice routine becomes just as critical as your on-ice skills. Strength training helps counteract the natural muscle loss that comes with age. Focus on building your core, legs, and upper body, as these areas are crucial for skating power and balance.

Flexibility and mobility exercises can prevent injuries and improve range of motion. Daily stretching, yoga, or dynamic warm-ups prepare your body for the demands of the rink. Cardiovascular conditioning, through cycling, swimming, or brisk walking, helps sustain your stamina for those late-game shifts.

Safety First: Protective Gear and Precautions for Playing Hockey at 70-plus

As we age, our bodies don’t recover as quickly from bumps and falls, making protective gear more important than ever. Senior hockey players should consider full-face protection—even if they didn’t wear it in their younger days—to prevent dental and facial injuries.

Padded girdles and lightweight shoulder pads offer added protection without sacrificing mobility. Well-fitted helmets with proper certification are non-negotiable. Regularly check that all gear fits snugly and is in good condition. And it goes without saying that when it comes to buying hockey equipment, don’t skimp on quality.

Beyond gear, be mindful of your physical limitations. Respect signs of fatigue, dizziness, or joint pain. Warming up thoroughly before games and cooling down afterward can stave off injuries.

Medical Clearance and Regular Check-Ups

Before returning to or continuing competitive hockey in your later years, it’s wise to get medical clearance from your doctor. Cardiovascular screening, joint assessments, and general health checks can help catch issues before they become serious.

Regular follow-ups can also help monitor conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or arthritis, all of which are manageable but require attention, especially when engaging in intense physical activity like hockey.

Mental Game: Stay Sharp, Stay Safe

Reaction times tend to slow with age, which can impact performance and increase injury risk. Senior players can benefit from drills that emphasize anticipation and positional play over raw speed and aggression.

Staying mentally sharp off the ice—through puzzles, reading, or cognitive games—can also help maintain the split-second decision-making that hockey demands.

Choosing the Right League

Not all hockey is created equal, and that’s especially true for older players. Seek out senior leagues or pickup sessions that match your pace and competitiveness level. Many senior leagues categorize players by age brackets, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience.

Avoiding overly competitive, aggressive leagues can help minimize the risk of injury. Remember, the goal at this stage is longevity and enjoyment, not making the NHL.

Nutrition and Hydration

Good nutrition plays a pivotal role in sustaining your energy and aiding recovery. Emphasize lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Stay well-hydrated before, during, and after games to keep your muscles functioning optimally and reduce cramping.

Some senior hockey players find that supplements like omega-3s, vitamin D, and glucosamine help manage joint health and inflammation. (But always consult your doctor before starting any new regimen.)

Rest and Recovery

Perhaps the most overlooked component for aging athletes is adequate rest. As much as you may love the game, overplaying can backfire. Build in rest days between games and practices. Listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to take extra time off if you’re feeling worn out.

Inspiring the Next Generation

By staying in the game, senior hockey players set a powerful example for younger athletes and peers alike. They show that with the right precautions, smart training, and a love for the game, hockey can be a lifelong passion.

So, whether you’re already a silver-haired stalwart or dreaming of skating into your golden years, remember: the ice doesn’t have an expiration date. Stay fit, stay smart, and keep your stick on the ice.