How to Do a Hockey Slap Shot

One of the toughest shots to master in hockey is the slap shot. The slap shot is the most powerful of all shots. Where the wrist (or snap) shot is more accurate and the backhand shot demonstrates better stick-work to utilize the element of surprise, the slap shot sacrifices both for sheer force. A player raises his stick up off the ice (or pavement) and cocks it back behind before swinging full-force at the hockey puck (or ball, for street hockey). Practice may be the ideal solution to your slap shot problems.

Things You'll Need

  • Hockey stick
  • Puck
  • Ball
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set the puck or ball down in between yourself and the goal. Keep it about 10 feet back from the goal, since most slap shots are taken a length away from the goaltender. According to "The Hockey Drill Book," by Dave Chambers, "For shots closer to the goal, players should use wrist shots."

    • 2

      Stand directly next to the puck with your feet lined up next to each other. You should be facing the puck with your side to the goal. Allow enough distance between yourself and the puck to fully extend your reach and get enough torque on the slap shot.

    • 3

      Practice winding up without actually hitting the puck. Bring the stick back and up until it's roughly perpendicular to the ground. Bring it down gently until it's lined up with the puck. Do this several times.

    • 4

      Try using the approach in your practice swings to take some real ones. Bring the stick up like before but don't hold back when coming back down. The stick should come down swiftly and strike the back of the puck, sending it toward the goal.

    • 5

      Shoot a few toward the goal, then work on your aim. Keeping the stick straight after setting up will give you better aim. Bring the stick up and back as hard and fast as you can.