How to Shoot a Slap Shot

Performing a proper slap shot is as technically challenging as it is impressive. With other shots, the stick is propelled into the puck using only the power of the hockey player. With the slap shot, the hockey stick strikes the ground approximately 6 inches behind the puck, drags on the ice to flex the blade, and then "slaps" the puck as the blade unflexes. The flexing of the stick combined with the power of the hockey player creates the intimidating speed of the slap shot.

Things You'll Need

  • Hockey stick
  • Hockey puck
  • Skates
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the puck approximately 3 feet in front of you between your skates

    • 2

      Grip your stick at the end with your upper hand and halfway down with your lower hand. The low hand will enable you to really push the stick into the ice, increasing the effectiveness of the slap.

    • 3

      Bring back the hockey stick, placing your weight on your back leg. Slide back your front skate as the stick reaches its highest point.

    • 4

      Swing the stick downward, utilizing the muscles in your core to twist your torso and shoulders toward the net, adding more power to the swing. Begin sliding your front skate forward and your back skate backward. This scissoring motion with your legs counters the rotation of your torso and shoulder, offering your swing stability and control.

    • 5

      Strike the ice 4 to 6 inches behind the puck and begin shifting your weight to your front leg. Push the stick into the ice to flex the blade.

    • 6

      Pull the stick through the puck, allowing the blade to snap back into place as it makes contact with the puck.

    • 7

      Follow through with your swing, sliding your front skate forward with your weight fully shifted, and lifting your back skate from the ground. Aim your stick directly at the net to complete your swing.