3 Habits to Achieving hockey performance greatness- The Ovi way (Not approved by Ovi)

Ovi (Alexander Ovechkin) Accomplished a special feat this past weekend. He overtook Wayne “the great one” Gretzky for the scoring title all time. An amazing accomplishment and in this short write up, wanted to discuss the powerful habits that have helped him close the gap. Here are three habits that likely played a huge role in his success:

Ruthless Consistency

Ovechkin’s ability to stay consistent year after year is unreal. Scoring 40–50 goals in a single season is tough—doing it over decades is elite. His habit of treating every season like a fresh opportunity, staying dialed in regardless of injuries, lockouts, or shortened seasons, shows a rare level of discipline and mental toughness. The mindset of an elite athlete, no excuses, no victim mentality, just stay after it!

Obsession with Scoring from His Spot- Do what you do best

Ovi’s power play one-timer from the left circle is iconic. Some might call it predictable, but it’s incredibly effective. His habit of mastering that one area and relentlessly refining his release, timing, and shot mechanics gave him a lethal weapon few goalies can stop. While others try to be unpredictable, Ovi leans into repetition and excellence—and it works. Don’t try to be anyone else, understand your own greatness then 10x that!

Taking Care of His Body (In His Own Way)

While Ovi might not have the “perfect athlete” lifestyle image (we’ve all seen the soda and burger stories), he clearly developed his own recovery and training habits that keep him game-ready. What works for one player may not work for another. He’s played over 1,300 games with very few missed due to injury—especially rare for a power forward. That durability and ability to keep his body going strong into his late 30s is a habit built on knowing what he needs, not what’s trendy. Though his training schedule may be different than most, he knows what and how to tweak the body to stay locked in. Once you understand what “you” need, focus on that. Don’t look around and try to replicate others’ successes.

Written by:
Kirill Vaks
BA, CSCS

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Voorhees Flyers Training center.

The Hollydell ice arena, in the main building.