Optimizing Performance in Ice and Field Hockey: From Physiology to Analytics

Ice and field hockey represent two of the most dynamic and physically demanding team sports, characterized by high-intensity intermittent efforts, rapid directional changes, and complex technical-tactical coordination. Recent research in sports physiology and performance science has expanded our understanding of the neuromuscular, metabolic, and cardiovascular adaptations required for success at elite levels. Emerging technologies in monitoring and analytics now allow for more precise quantification of physical demands, yet challenges remain in translating these findings into actionable strategies that enhance real-world competitive outcomes. Despite the increasing sophistication of performance diagnostics, a gap persists between theoretical models of physiological optimization and their applied implementation within training environments and match contexts. This intersection between physiology, performance, and data analytics continues to be an evolving field that demands integrative exploration.This Research Topic aims to synthesize current evidence and promote new approaches that connect fundamental sports physiology with performance analytics to optimize outcomes in ice and field hockey. The objective is to explore how data-driven insights can enhance training load design, athlete monitoring, recovery strategies, and tactical decision-making. Key questions include how off-ice and off-field assessments translate to on-ice and on-field performance, how physiological metrics can inform player selection and tactical adaptation, and how integrative systems can prevent injury and promote long-term athlete development.To gather further insights into the optimization of performance in ice and field hockey through physiological and analytical perspectives, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:Quantification and monitoring of physical and physiological demands during competition and trainingIntegration of performance analytics and wearable technologies for applied decision-makingEvidence-based strategies for recovery, fatigue management, and injury preventionDevelopmental physiology and performance tracking across youth and elite athlete pathwaysStandardization of reference values and methodological approaches for high-performance analysisTactical match analysis informed by physiological and performance dataInterdisciplinary models linking biomechanics, neuroscience, and performance analyticsAppendix: We welcome original research articles, systematic reviews, and methodological papers. Topic editors: Robert Roczniok, Artur Terbalyan Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/83788/optimizing-performance-in-ice-and-field-hockey-from-physiology-to-analytics