Full-body & Complexes

DB Complex

Full body (posterior chainlegsshouldersgripcore) Glycolytic
i.

How to Do It

Perform a series of DB exercises back-to-back without setting the weights down — for example, RDL → row → hang clean → front squat → press — completing the prescribed reps of each before flowing to the next. Keep the DBs in hand throughout, maintaining form as fatigue builds, then rest. Choose a load you can sustain across the whole sequence.

ii.

Why It Works

Chaining multiple compound lifts without rest creates a high total workload and metabolic demand while maintaining grip and postural control under accumulating fatigue; builds full-body strength-endurance, work capacity, and the ability to keep producing force when tired.

iii.

Hockey Transfer

Builds the full-body strength-endurance and grip stamina to keep battling, pushing, and producing force late in shifts and games; training quality movement under fatigue mirrors maintaining strong skating and battling when tired.

iv.

Coaching Cues

  • "Don’t set the DBs down"
  • "hold form as fatigue builds"
  • "smooth transitions between moves"
v.

Common Mistakes

Form breaking down under fatigue; choosing too heavy a load to sustain; rushing transitions sloppily; setting the weights down mid-complex

vi.

Progression / Regression

Progression

heavier DBs, more reps, or more exercises

Regression

lighter DBs, fewer reps, or shorter complex

vii.

Primary Muscles

Full body (posterior chainlegsshouldersgripcore)
viii.

Energy System

Glycolytic

Ready to train?

Put it to work
on the ice.

This exercise is part of a fully periodized 12-week off-ice program — built by a sport scientist who coaches at the national level.

← Back to Exercise Library