One of the most popular sports in Northern America, ice hockey requires incredible hand-eye coordination, swift passing skills, endurance and so much more. Players need to be at their best, and practicing drills can help in the process.
There are a few drills that apply to ice hockey players at any level. They can help them improve their physicality, coordination and teamwork skills. Here are a few:
- The 1-on-0:
1-on-0 is one of the more popular drills for ice hockey players. Skaters transport the puck up ice past obstacle cones arranged from the baseline goal to the opposing goal for a puck shot from the inside blue line.
The skater should keep their attempt on goal precise and not beyond or above the net.
- One-timers from slot:
From the baseline to the face-off circle, pass out. Skaters alternate between passer and shooter positions for at least two rounds. Groups can be split at the baseline.
This drill explains how to judge where to hit and redirect a moving puck for a slap shot with the objective in mind.
- Skid stops:
On the opposite side, skid stops are repeated. Exercising on the opposite foot side of the lead foot several times.
Everyone has a stronger and weaker (left or right) side, and both sides must be practiced until they are part of the routine on any side. Skid stopping skill helps to lessen the risk of injury in gameplay, yet it is not something that can be acquired immediately.
What’s your favorite ice hockey drill?