Hockey bag essentials

TRIA’s essential items for your hockey bag, and why you should have them

1. Water: Hydration is key to your performance and overall health. Athletes need to drink before, during and after activity. Along with your water bottle you can bring a sports drink. These sports drinks can be helpful especially if you are a heavy sweater, or need some carbs for energy during your skate. The key is to continue drinking small amounts of water or other fluids between shifts. Remember with your equipment on you will sweat even if you’re playing outdoors in the cold.
2. Snacks: Fuel is a must for pre-game or in between periods. This can be a protein source, granola bar or even a simple peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Pick small, quick foods that you enjoy. Ideally, you want something light and simple to eat 15 – 30 minutes before your skate starts, and a light snack option for in between periods. Keep your between period snacks small to avoid any bloated or “full feeling” going into the next period.
3. First Aid Supplies: Depending on where you are skating, you may not have access to medical staff or supplies. It is important to be prepared with supplies such as Band-Aids, gauze, anti-biotic spray, and instant ice packs in your bag. You never know what could happen at the rink. Let’s say you block a shot, you’re probably going to need to ice the injury for 15 – 20 minutes every hour. Maybe you take a high stick, then you would need some gauze and a bandage. Make sure you clean cuts first then apply anti-biotic ointment before covering.  If you have medications that are taken regularly be sure to have those that you might need in an emergency, such as an inhaler, or epi-pen.  Of course, tape can be a handy item to have not only for supporting an injured wrist or ankle but also to tape your stick or socks.
4. Emergency Contact Info: While most leagues require this on enrollment forms, it’s never a bad idea to have a card in your wallet or on a bag tag. Be sure it includes important information such as your name, date of birth, allergies, medications and any chronic medical conditions.

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About TRIA Orthopaedic Center

TRIA is a comprehensive center for orthopaedic medicine, providing incomparable clinical and surgical care, world-class research, and innovative programs. TRIA Orthopaedic Center has over 40 highly-trained physicians with a variety of sub-specialties such as sports medicine, acute injury, shoulder, hip, knee, spine, hand and wrist, foot and ankle, and fractures. TRIA’s sports medicine specialists have served as official team physicians for Minnesota’s professional sports teams for over 25 years. TRIA offers walk-in care through the Acute Injury Clinic, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. seven days a week, no appointment needed. From diagnosis to treatment, to rehabilitation and even surgery, it is all at one convenient location at I-494 and France Avenue in Bloomington, Minnesota. For more information, visit tria.com.