Learn to Play Ice Hockey Without Ice
How would you like to learn to play ice hockey without ice?
Wouldn't it be great to learn a sport that you have never experienced before?
Maybe your children are ready for something new that they never tried!
Ice hockey is an exciting, fast-moving game that can be addictive for anyone at any age!
Not only is it great exercise, but it's also super fun.
If you don't live near a rink, don't worry, you can still learn to play ice hockey without ever stepping on the ice... or should I say..."Natural Ice".
Whether you're a woman, man, child or parent looking for a new challenge, we've got you covered!
In this blog post, we'll show you how to learn all the basics of this exciting sport and have you lacing-up in no time!
So what are you waiting for?
Game Time
Ice hockey is a popular sport, but it can be challenging to learn if you don't live near a rink.
Even if you do, finding the ice time to practice the basic skills is hard to do when the only "open ice" is at crazy hours during the day or late in the evening.
If you're interested in learning how to ice skate and play hockey, the best first step is by attending a live hockey game.
Not only will you be able to see how the game is played firsthand, but you'll also be able to pick up on some of the rules and strategies.
Hockey is a fast-moving game, so it's helpful to have somebody explain what's going on as you watch.
That's why attending a game with friends or family who already know the game can be advantageous.
They can help point out key moments and share their own knowledge of the game with you.
While watching the game you may be thinking “wow, I could never do that”?
You may think hockey is too difficult or physical for you to play?
If so, you’re wrong!
Hockey is not as hard to learn as you think and in fact, can be a lot of fun.
All you need is some basic knowledge of the game and some practice.
Learn the Rules
Before hitting the ice, it is important to learn some of the basic rules of the game.
The object of the game is to outscore your opponent by shooting the puck into the opposition's net.
Both teams try to keep the puck away from their opponent while trying to set up plays and scoring chances at both ends of the ice.
To start, here's are a few basic things to remember:
- - There are three periods in an ice hockey game, each lasting 20 minutes.
- - The clock doesn't stop running during play, except for offsides, icing, penalties and the occasional fight.
- - There are six players on each team: three forwards, two defensemen, and one goalie.
- - The objective of the game is to score goals by shooting the puck into the other team's net.
- - Players can only touch the puck with their sticks--they can't use their hands or any other part of their bodies.
At the end of regulation time, if the score is tied, overtime periods are played until one team scores.
If you're new to ice hockey, the rules can seem daunting.
But don't worry--once you learn the basics, it's not so complicated.
Video Binge
One of the best ways to educate yourself on how to train to play the game is by "video-binging" on the subject.
You can find plenty of instructional videos online, and they can give you a good overview of the basic rules and skills involved in the game.
You'll be able to see firsthand how the players move on the ice, how they handle the puck, and what strategies they use to score goals.
By watching both instructional videos and live games, you'll quickly learn to play.
Also, the NHL website has a section called "NHL TV," which is full of videos about hockey.
You can also find hockey videos on YouTube.
Just type "hockey training" into the search bar, and you'll find tons of videos about how to play the game.
Body Armor and Equipment
Whether you're just starting out or you've been playing hockey for years, it's important to have the right equipment.
At a minimum, you'll need a hockey stick, skates, and a puck.
You may also want to consider protective gear, such as helmet, mouthguard, gloves and shin pads.
Hockey equipment can be expensive, so it's important to do your research and purchase items that will last.
A good hockey stick, for example, can cost upwards of $100, but it's an investment that will pay off in the long run.
When it comes to skates, it's important to find a pair that fits well and is comfortable to wear.
You'll be spending a lot of time on the ice, so it's important to make sure you are comfortable.
You can find all of this equipment at your local hockey store or online.
Make sure to buy good quality gear that will last you a long time.
Once you have all of your equipment, it's time to hit the ice!
Synthetic Ice
If you're interested in learning how to play ice hockey at home, one of the best ways to do so is with synthetic ice.
Synthetic ice mimics the properties of real ice, making it an ideal surface for practicing and developing your skills.
There are many benefits to using synthetic ice, including the fact that it is more affordable than real ice, it is easier to set up and take down, and it can be used indoors or outdoors.
It's available in multiple size rink packages that will fit any budget big or small!
Additionally, synthetic ice doesn't require a Zamboni or other maintenance equipment, which means you can practice anytime, anywhere.
Practice, Practice....Practice!
To excel at any sport you need to put in the time and work on the fundamentals.
As you go through each drill push yourself to the point of failure as this is the quickest way to develop each skill along the way.
Work on your skating skills and stick handling individually before combining the two during drills.
While working on your skating, spend some time practicing starts and stops, turns, and crossovers (forwards and backwards).
If you're working on stick handling, try different drills like passing and receiving passes, shooting pucks into an empty net and don't forget your backhand.
The key to advancing your skills is repetition....over-and-over again and then....do it again!
Get Creative
Hockey training can be a great way to improve your skills and have fun by being creative at the same time.
By focusing on specific areas of your game, you can make tangible progress that will help you on the ice.
Because hockey is such a fast-paced and exciting sport, intense high-rep training can be a great way to stay motivated and engaged.
There are a number of different skills you can work on though we suggest you try to recognize your weaknesses and put in the extra time at that skill to advance your overall game.
That means incorporating a variety of fun drills and activities that keep you engaged and excited about playing hockey.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- - Use cones or other markers to set up an obstacle course. As you skate through the course, work on your puck handling, shooting, and stickhandling skills.
- - Play mini games with friends or teammates. Games like 3v3 or 4v4 can help you work on game situations and decision making.
- - Take part in drills that focus on specific skills. For example, if you want to work on your shooting, set up a net and practice taking shots from different angles
- Put aside some reward time to try your hand at trick shots and record your growth along the way so you can look back to see how much better you've gotten.
But whether you're working on your shooting accuracy or your skating speed, it's you dedication to the sport that will reap the rewards!
So have fun and get started today!
Conclusion
If you want to learn how to play ice hockey wihout stepping foot on the ice, now you know you can make it happen!
All you need is a stick, puck and a synthetic ice starter kit!
It's never too late to learn to play and once you get started we know you'll be hooked!
Follow the simple steps we reviewed and put in the time and your game will improve more which each and every workout.
Plus, with the popularity of hockey growing each year, there are likely plenty of classes and clubs near you where you can get more specialized training.
So what are you waiting for?
Grab your gear and learn to play!