What are the differences between on-ice and off-ice side-cutting maneuver? A kinematic and electromyographic comparative analysis of ice hockey players

The findings reveal a key adaptive trade-off: the on-ice maneuver is kinematically riskier (knee valgus) but biomechanically more efficient (lower muscle work). The increased co-activation appears to be a protective neural strategy to enhance joint stability on the low-friction surface, compensating for the vulnerable posture. This underscores a critical gap in training specificity, as off-ice patterns do not replicate on-ice stability demands. Therefore, optimal training programs must integrate exercises that simulate on-ice loading characteristics to better prepare athletes and mitigate injury risk.