It is true that in the list of popular sports world wide only ice hockey comes anywhere near consideration.This is a shame since field hockey, for instance, has so many health benefits. (Provided the best protective clothing is worn!) It is a great cardio workout being a form of cardiovascular exercise. Whether we're talking about hockey on ice or on field, skating or running the body benefits from the start-stop nature of the game.
Quick bursts of running inspersed with periods of rest has greater cardio benefits than all-out non-stop running. At least ice hockey is the favourite sport in six countries: Canada; Czech Republic; Belarus; Switzerland; Finland and Norway. Okay, the climate doesn't offer a great deal of choice!