Sensorimotor Training to Enhance Performance - the STEP AHEAD Program

The goal of this study is to evaluate the effects of SM/NM training in ice hockey players. The specific questions include: 1) typical performance on sensorimotor and neuromuscular (SM/NM) tests 2) evaluate SM/NM training on ice hockey skills performance and SM/NM tests, 3) evaluate SM/NM control to prevent concussions and injuries Participants will: Consent and complete a series of SM/NM tests. Participate in their typical training for 4 weeks. Repeat the SM/NM tests. Participate in SM/NM training for 4 weeks as part of their off season training program. Repeat the SM/NM tests and on ice skills testing. Record any injuries and concussions that they sustain over the next season. Repeat the SM/NM tests and on ice skills tests at the start of the 2025 off season training (estimated May - July of 2025).

Rationale: While sensorimotor function is recognized as an important aspect of growth and development, little is known about specific changes in sensorimotor control with sport specific training. Similarly, the relationship between sensorimotor control and sport-specific performance is not yet well understood. Specific rehabilitation exercises have been shown to improve sensorimotor control, many of which are context specific and may also prevent injury and/or concussion. The effect of age on these outcomes and the relationship between training sensorimotor control and age is also not well understood. Thus, evaluation of sensorimotor control outcomes across ages, the effects of sensorimotor training on sensorimotor control and performance is needed and may inform changes to recommendations for sport-specific training. Ultimately, understanding the effect of training specific sensorimotor systems (which is not a part of typical sport training environments) will inform multiple areas of sport including: 1) Sport-specific performance 2) typical development of SM/NM function, 3) the effect of SM/NM training on SM/NM measures and ice hockey specific physical performance and 4) injury and concussion prevention strategies. Therefore, the objectives of this study are to: 1. Describe age and sex specific typical scores on sensorimotor and neuromuscular (proprioception, movement related, balance, vision, divided attention) and ice hockey specific physical performance measures over one off season of training. 2. Evaluate the effects of a sensorimotor training program on ice hockey skills performance. 3. Evaluate sensorimotor control as a means to improve safety in sport: 1. Evaluate the effect of SM/NM training on concussion and injury risk. 2. Evaluate the effect of previous concussion and injury on sensorimotor function. 4. Evaluate the effect of SM/NM training on performance of 1) system specific outcomes and 2) sport specific measures in ice hockey players.