I need help please !?

Question

Field hockey starts aug 11, and I go on vacation aug 2 - aug 9. I havent really been getting in shape for field hockey, but I do go to the gym and use the elliptical for about 20 to 40 minutes. But I need to get in shape, and fast. any ideas? And also will the elliptical help me with my running. If I can do that for 40 min, does that mean I can run for 40 min ?

Answer 1

I would start Cycling that build endurance quickly

Answer 2

i'm not an expert. and i'm not giving you my full answer (don't have the time). but based on what you've said, i offer the following:

- the elliptical won't hurt. but it might not help as much as running itself. ("train like you play"). the more you simulate actual conditions, the better you'll actually play under those conditions. your mind will have enough to think about in terms of the game. you won't want distractions of why your knees feel different from taking the impact that an elliptical can't simulate (for instance).

- also .... another common mistake is simply exercising at a constant intensity level for a specific period of time. this is also irrepresentative of the conditions you'll play under. it's like a soccer player running for 2 hours straight to prepare. although it has some merit (overall endurance), additionally, soccer players (and other sports ... like hockey ... field or ice ... especially ice) should vary their workouts so that during that ... let's say 40 minutes of exercising, that you hit your "max speed" a significant # of times. for instance, after a 5 minute warmup to get the blood flowing, you then increase to your normal "cruising speed", as if you would maintain that speed for the rest of your workout. however, in order to tax your body, you need to have at least two (5) minute sessions where you go all out max speed for let's say, 30 seconds, and then return to your cruising speed for 30 secs. continue that for 5 minutes, then let your body equalize. do those 5 minute "burst" sessions at least twice within one workout.

athletes who fail to do this, have trouble finding that extra energy in game situations, when needed most. after all, no one gets points for running / jogging for 30, 40, 50, etc. minutes straight. you need to be able to turn on the speed on a breakaway, etc.

just my $0.02. (sorry for the wordy explanation). it's just a common mistake.