Skating backwards is an essential skill for any hockey player, but especially defenders. By facing your opponent you can keep your body in front of him as well as keep an eye on the puck. If you only feel comfortable skating forward, watch the video below for some guidance on where to begin. This post goes out to Andrew, who wrote in a couple weeks ago, asking for advice on backwards skating.
Do
- Keep your head up, back flat, knees bent, butt down
- Make strong, powerful strides by pushing off with your feet
- Maintain balance
- Look what’s behind you first!
- Finish your stride by making half circles so you are prepared to make another
Do Not
- Stand up straight
- Stoop down too low
- Use your hips to generate power
- Put too much weight on one side
- Spread your legs too far apart or keep them to close together
Awesome tutorial, I definitely need to work on my backward skating skills. I love all your info about learning the game & the technical aspects of it. If possible can you do one that talks about how to change from skating forward to backward, and maybe how to do the Russian Circle drill too? Thanks.
I will get some tutorials up on transitions and reverse crossovers soon