The term 'hockey butt' describes the pronounced glute development common among ice hockey players, a result of the sport's unique skating mechanics. Retired NHL player Mike Knuble once called it "a real defining characteristic of a hockey player."
The powerful, explosive pushes required for skating heavily engage the glute muscles, while the constant low athletic stance builds strength through sustained tension. This leads to a physique with relatively small waist and large glutes and thighs.
For those wanting to build similar strength off the ice, experts recommend key exercises. Slider lateral lunges improve hip mobility and simulate skating strides. Bulgarian split squats mimic one-legged movement and target the glutes and quads. Deadlifts build the essential posterior chain.
Lateral squats help simulate a hockey stance, while plyometric exercises like skater jumps develop explosive power. Consistency with these movements can build stronger, more athletic glutes, improving mobility and reducing injury risk.