Hockey Skating Basics

Becoming a good hockey player requires mastering skating. If you don't become a good skater, you won't be able to keep up. The best players make their skating look absolutely effortless. Entire schools have been developed to teach power skating skills, and many hockey camps spend time drilling players on skating.

  1. The knees

    • A deep knee bend is essential for good skating technique. Try to get your knees close to a 90-degree knee bend. It should almost feel as though you are sitting in a chair. Having a deep knee bend will help with balance and allow you to have better control of your edges.

    The skates

    • Many beginners make the mistake of thinking they need to lace up their skates extremely tight, almost like a vice. However, the best skaters keep the upper part of their skates a little loose. You should be able to flex your ankles. Flexing your ankles will make it easier to dig your inside edge into the ice for the pushing motion. To get the best stride, dig the inside edge of your skate blade into the ice at a 45-degree angle. As your leg reaches the length of its stride, think of flicking the toe into the ice and returning the blade under you.

    The upper body

    • Ideally, the upper body should be quiet. Don't let it rock too much side to side because that will throw off your forward momentum. Let your arms swing forward, not side to side. When your left leg kicks out, your right arm should swing forward, and vice versa. Above all, practice!