Walking and running are natural movements of the body, but if you try to use the same motions on the ice, you will have limited acceleration and speed. That’s why learning how to skate can be frustrating. Skating is not a natural movement for the human body, and many of your intuitions regarding how you should move on the ice will hinder your learning rather than help it. Here, I share some of the basic movements and skills that will help you when learning to skate.
Balance Is Crucial
In my opinion, good balance is the most important skill that any new hockey player can work on. If a player does not have good balance, he or she will not be able to perform any of the techniques required to excel at skating—and will also suffer in stickhandling and shooting. If you are a new player, I recommend working on your balance and edges. In our learn to skate series, we have videos and articles explaining more about balance and edges and drills you can use to improve.
Proper Stance Is Key
When teaching players, the biggest issue I see is not enough knee bend and a poor hockey stance. A good hockey stance includes:
- Head and chest up
- Hands and stick in front of the body
- Knees bent (almost 90 degrees)
- Weight balanced and over the feet (leaning forward when accelerating)
- Slight ankle and hip bend (do not bend too much at the hip)
Having your knees bent will lead to better balance, better power and much better agility. Unfortunately, this stance does not feel natural, so most new players end up with their legs too straight. Even experienced players sometimes need to be reminded to stay low and will work with skating coaches to help them get lower in their stance. A good hockey stance is very important as it sets the standard for many other moves. Remind yourself to get into the good hockey stance whenever you are doing your drills. A good hockey player will have power, agility and great balance plus the ability to perform many skating techniques—in all situations on the ice. Remember this: When you are just starting hockey and learning to skate, you should not get ahead of yourself. Work on the most basic principles first while spending a little time practicing more difficult moves. If you fall, don’t worry! Everyone falls. It’s part of the learning process. Get up and keep on trying!
Looking for More Tips?
I run two hockey training websites where I post articles and videos on how to improve your skills. My newest website is called New To Hockey, where I share guides and articles that will help new hockey players and the parents that are new to hockey. Check out my 5 Balance Drills for Hockey Players: Learn to Skate Episode 4 here.
Editor’s Note: Thank you to Jeremy Rupke of HowtoHockey.com for this story.