How to Skate in Hockey Skates

Skating in hockey skates will require some focus and ankle strength. If you have ever skated in roller skates, you will understand the basic concept of skating in hockey skates, but you will be more acclimated to the hockey skates if you have skated in roller blades. The single line of the roller blades will help you understand the balance needed when you skate in hockey skates.

Things You'll Need

  • Hockey skate blade protectors
  • Hockey stick
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Instructions

    • 1
      Make sure you have properly fitting skates.

      Buy a proper pair of hockey skates. Go to a sports store to try on hockey skates if you have never owned a pair so you can purchase a pair that fits you best. Make sure the skates are snug and not too loose. Some hockey skates are leather, but the plastic kind offer better protection from hockey pucks and arrant swings from hockey sticks. The blade on each skate should be the same length. Five inches is recommended for beginner skaters. A three to four inch blade will allow more turning and cutting if you feel comfortable enough to start out with that type of blade.

    • 2
      Picture yourself on the ice before you attempt to skate.

      Put on your skates with the blade protectors on the blades. Stand up and picture yourself on the ice. Notice your balance, the weight of the skates, how the boots feel on your feet and how they affect your ankles. Slowly walk around and get used to your skates. The more comfortable you are with your skates, the better you will be able to skate with them.

    • 3
      Keep your feet shoulder width apart when not accelerating to stay balanced.

      Keep your weight as balanced as you can when skating. Do not put excessive weight on either foot and keep your knees bent. Glide down the ice, quickly shifting your weight between each skate in smooth succession. When you play hockey you will need to cut and turn, so your weight will shift in those instances.

    • 4
      Use your hockey stick to help you stay balanced.

      Use your hockey stick to help you stay balanced. You do not need to lean on it. Just use it as extra contact on the ice and let it help guide your skating.