Frequently Asked Questions

No, there is no minimum age, however we do ask that players have skating experience prior to using the skating treadmill.

After creating an account from the link at hdcsandiego.com, go to http://app.upperhand.io or the Upper Hand mobile app and log in. If you have purchased a program, you will find your Credit Passes there, which will be used to book sessions with the trainer of your choice. If you need any help, call us at (858) 265-6340.

You don’t need to bring a whole hockey bag, you just need your skates, stick, shin pads, gloves, helmet, and water bottle. For workouts in our gym, bring a water bottle and appropriate workout clothes and athletic shoes (no Crocs please!).

We recommend all players arrive 20 minutes before their session to get mentally and physically ready for their training. 

Our facility offers individualized training for all of our athletes. One's weaknesses while skating are not the same as others’. Our facility allows us to improve our athletes' strides in the shortest amount of time. Unlike on the ice, we utilize the most advanced tools available to acquire measurable results so you can track your progress.

Results of increased balance will appear in 1-2 sessions. Measurable results through our Skate Analysis will begin to appear in 4-6 sessions. 

Contrary to assumptions, sharpening is not required after each session on our advanced synthetic ice. We have found that visiting our center once or more per week will require blade sharpening slightly more often, but certainly not each time. We recommend players pick up a set of spare blades to use only during training, which can be sharpened with a hand tool on the fly. HDC San Diego offers discounted blades to those who are interested.

No way! If used properly, the treadmill exposes all on ice bad habits for trainers to address.

Depends on the weight and athlete preference. We advise all of our athletes to start at ⅝” and progress closer to 1” over time, which will result in more smooth glide for the athlete. 

Equipment should fit snug on your body - ESPECIALLY your skates. We need optimal fit in our skates to ensure best performance for the most important part of the game…SKATING! Do not hesitate to ask an HDC trainer to check the fit of your equipment if you are unsure.

Not at all. In fact, a quick release is more important than a hard shot. If a goalie can get himself set before the shot, chances are he’ll stop it - even if it is a hard shot. Releasing the puck off the stick quickly helps to make sure a goalie is not prepared for the shot. HDC trainers can help players learn how to do this effectively.

Recovery is often found through taking care of your body post training/game. This includes stretching, getting 8 hours of sleep, and drinking plenty of water.