How to Skate in Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a fast-paced, exciting game that's as fun to play as it is to watch. Playing ice hockey requires great hand to eye coordination, speed, teamwork and, of course, great footwork. Knowing how to skate in ice hockey is one of the fundamental skills that all the hockey greats have to master before they can become legends.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Wear skates that fit properly and support your feet and ankles. Your skates should hold your foot snugly without pinching your toes or the top of your foot. Lace your skates tightly from the bottom all the way up the ankle for maximum support.

2. Get the most momentum possible by pushing off as hard as you can. Lean forward slightly so your weight is on the balls of your feet. Push forward with your skate blade, moving one foot in front of the other, and propel yourself forward with your whole body.

3. Skate with your feet shoulder-width apart to move forward in a straight line and help you balance your weight on both feet. Moving evenly with your feet well-positioned keeps you stable.

4. Turn your foot out and to the side to slow your momentum. Use the side of the blade against the ice to stop. Stopping will take practice, so start slow until you can stop yourself safely.

5. Learn to skate while holding a stick, since you're always going to have a stick in your hands when you play hockey. You'll get used to the feel of the stick, and it will help you learn how to skate and handle the stick at the same time.

Tips & Warnings

• Replace skate laces often to keep them from fraying.

Who Can Help:

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Resources

• Learn skating tips from an NHL expert.
• Find the right hockey skates for you.