Which Sport is More Physically Demanding: American Football or Ice Hockey?

When discussing which sport is more physically demanding between American football and ice hockey, many factors come into play, such as the intensity of play, duration, and impact. Here, we explore the physical demands of each sport, highlighting key differences and similarities.

The Physical Demands of Lacrosse

My 18-year-old child just completed a grueling lacrosse season. He played long pole D and was rarely off the field. His body was covered in bruises from the frequent encounters on the field. Despite not skating for nearly a year due to Covid-19, he recently joined a couple of rink clinics and thought he was in good shape from his lacrosse practices, which involved two hours of practice four times a week.

However, after his first few skating sessions, he threw up in the trash cans, even without scrimmages. He immediately hit the weights and increased his ice time to get in shape for hockey.

Soccer vs. Ice Hockey vs. American Football

The question of which sport is more physically demanding often sparks debate. Some argue that soccer, hockey, and football are merely "pussy sports," while Rugby players often top the list of the most physically demanding athletes.

Soccer is often referred to as a 10K run, where players must constantly control a nearly unmaneuverable ball using only their feet. Typically, 18 out of the 22 starting players remain on the field for the entire game. Hockey and football players, on the other hand, are on the playing surface for only a portion of the game—often up to half the time.

Physical Demands of Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is generally considered more physically demanding overall. Players must work at full intensity during the time they are on the ice and rest only when sitting while their teammates play. The physical exertion and constant quick movements place a high demand on the cardiovascular and muscular systems.

Physical Demands of American Football

Professional contact football is known for being particularly damaging to the body for several reasons. The disparity between the size of the ball carrier and the tackler is a significant factor. Additionally, the firm footing and traction of the field make every contact much more brutal. This high level of physical impact leads to a higher incidence of injuries, particularly in the knees and lower back.

Comparison and Conclusion

The choice between these three sports often comes down to personal preferences and physical capabilities. Soccer can be physically demanding but is mainly a cardiovascular workout. Hockey requires explosive quickness and power but has more rest periods. Football, on the other hand, involves intense, full-body workouts interspersed with short, high-impact collisions.

Whether you choose the agility and quickness of ice hockey, the cardiovascular challenge of soccer, or the high-impact nature of football, each sport comes with its own set of physical demands and risks. So, choose your poison wisely. Work your ass off for long stretches of time and either get hit at high speeds by someone your own size or by an opponent who weighs 300 pounds.