Loaded Carries

Farmer + Suitcase Complex

Grip/forearmstrapsobliquesquadratus lumborumcoreglutes Strength/neural (strength-endurance)
i.

How to Do It

Perform a complex combining carry styles — a bilateral farmer carry for a distance, then transition to a single-side suitcase carry (one weight down) for a distance each side — all within one continuous bout. Maintain tall posture and a hard brace throughout, adjusting the anti-tip demand as the load changes. Complete the prescribed sequence.

ii.

Why It Works

Combines the bilateral posterior-chain/grip demand of the farmer carry with the asymmetric anti-lateral-flexion demand of the suitcase carry in one set, training both total-body and lateral-core stability under prolonged time-under-tension and shifting loads.

iii.

Hockey Transfer

Builds both the upright total-body strength-endurance and the lateral anti-tip stability used across a shift — staying strong and balanced whether the load is even or pulling to one side, as in varied battling and contact situations.

iv.

Coaching Cues

  • "Tall and braced the whole way"
  • "stay level when it’s one-sided"
  • "smooth transitions, no swing"
v.

Common Mistakes

Losing posture as the load changes; leaning during the suitcase portion; rushing the transitions; shrugging

vi.

Progression / Regression

Progression

heavier loads or longer distances

Regression

lighter loads or shorter segments

vii.

Primary Muscles

Grip/forearmstrapsobliquesquadratus lumborumcoreglutes
viii.

Energy System

Strength/neural (strength-endurance)

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.

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