A Vision Training Program's Impact on Ice Hockey Performance.

BACKGROUND: This study was carried out to determine whether a preseason vision training program would improve visual skills and season success in a Division I men's ice hockey team. METHODS: A six-week vision training program was implemented with the Ferris State University Men's Ice Hockey team dur...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Insight: The Journal of the American Society of Ophthalmic Registered Nurses Vol. 43; no. 1; pp. 15 - 22
Main Authors: Jenerou, Alison, Morgan, Bruce, Buckingham, Robert S.
Format: pictorial research tables/charts Journal Article
Published: American Society of Ophthalmic Registered Nurses Winter2018
Online Access:View this record in EBSCOhost
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Summary:BACKGROUND: This study was carried out to determine whether a preseason vision training program would improve visual skills and season success in a Division I men's ice hockey team. METHODS: A six-week vision training program was implemented with the Ferris State University Men's Ice Hockey team during their pre-season workouts. Vision training incorporated binocular and accommodative training along with dynamic visual skills training. RESULTS: The study showed an improvement in base out vergence ranges, binocular accommodative facility, and Wayne Saccadic Fixator (WSF) scores and was viewed by players to have made a positive impact on their individual performance. The pre- and post vision training goals, shots on goal, and shooting percentage all significantly improved following training. CONCLUSION: The vision training program during preseason workouts had a positive impact on the players' visual skills important for hockey. The players' perception of their vision and how they were using their vision during competitive play also showed a significant change. The majority of the players felt that vision training was an effective use of their practice time allotted by the NCAA.