# Reference Data by Player Position for an Ice Hockey-Specific Complex Test
## 4 Discussion
[4] emphasized that traditional and often used tests, such as the Wingate 30-s anaerobic power test, a cycle ergometer VO\({}_{\text{2 max}}\) test, push-ups, sit-ups, grip strength, bench press, standing long jump, and vertical jump have only little predictive values. Consequently, and in line with our findings, the authors questioned the validity of these tests. For this reason, we used the IHCT, which, prior to our data collection and analysis, had been proven to be reliable [17] and valid [10]. In this context, [PERSON] et al. [4] concluded that more effort and work for coaches and scientists is necessary to develop reliable on-ice repeated sprint and agility testing. In our opinion and according to the recommendations from [PERSON] et al. [4], the IHCT is a sufficient option to improve on-ice performance diagnostics. [PERSON] et al. [29] also conducted a complex performance diagnostic using off-ice tests (e.g., Wingate 30-s anaerobic power test, a ramp ergocyte test to establish VO\({}_{\text{2 max}}\) and anaerobic threshold) and on-ice tests (30 m sprint forwards, 30 m sprint backwards, 6 \(\times\) 9 m stops, 6 \(\times\) 9 m turns, endurance test: 6 \(\times\) 30 m). Forty-two male ice hockey players from the top division of the Polish ice hockey league were included. The aim was to identify suitable parameters in order to select powerful ice hockey players. The authors detected that the best predictors of success in top-level ice hockey players' scouting were relative peak power (Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.82, 95% CI: 0.98-3.36) and relative VO\({}_{\text{2 max}}\) (OR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.11-4.05). [PERSON] et al. [16] examined high-intensity activities in a top class ice hockey match (n = 36) and the effect of training status. Similar to [PERSON] et al. [29], physical capacity was assessed off-ice using a submaximal Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Ice hockey test (level 1). The authors described performance differences between forwards and defenders for total distance and high-intensity skating per minute. Forwards performed more intense skating and repeatedly higher-intensity exercises than defenders. Therefore, coaches should consider offering a position-specific approach to physical preparation, depending on the different tactical roles [16]. Forwards need repeated and intensive cues, while defenders tend to need a higher level of endurance due to the lower number of defenders typically on a team. This results in shorter changes or recovery times for defenders. These authors also found a reduction of sprint skating speed in periods 1 and 2 compared with period 3 and overtime. Consequently, [PERSON] et al. [16] concluded that ice hockey players experienced fatigue in the latter half of a match and therefore, the training of elite ice hockey players should emphasize the ability for repeated high-intensity skating. This finding and recommendation highlight the design of the IHCT, which includes seven high-intensity actions (30 m sprint without and with puck, 30 m backward sprint, transition agility without and with puck, weave agility without and with puck) within a 2 to 3 min period. [PERSON] et al. [12] explored the relationships between off-ice tests (e.g., Wingate test, jump performance, beep test), changes in body composition (e.g., body fat, lean tissue mass), and match performance (e.g., time on ice, shift length, power play time). These authors only found medium correlations (r\({}_{\text{max}}\) = \(-\)0.53) between test performance (long jump) and match performance (shot differential) parameters. They suggested that such data be recorded regularly to monitor the players' performance and directly influence their weekly training plan. We agree, but based on our findings would also suggest integrating on-ice tests (e.g., IHCT) in the performance diagnostic. In our opinion, and in line with [PERSON] et al. [4], the sole use of off-ice tests used by [PERSON] et al. [12] seems to be insufficient. The main methodological limitation of the current study was the inclusion of players from only the 3 rd league.