In hockey, your shot technique is indicative of the type of player you are. Forwards need to have powerful shots, mastering the slap shot, while defensive players are more likely to pass the puck to offensive teammates rather than shoot. Shooting a hockey puck is more than simply hitting it with your stick. It's using every piece of equipment to your advantage, from your skates to your stick and the puck itself. Practicing your shot often ensures that you know how to do so efficiently, quickly and precisely.
Step 1
Catch the puck with your weight on your back foot. Position your body so that it's perpendicular to the target, whether that's the goal or another player.
Step 2
Cradle the puck and move your stick backward until the puck is near your back foot. Maneuver the puck to the area of the stick that will give you the most efficient results. If you're shooting for power keep the stick close to the heel of the stick. If you're shooting for accuracy, allow the push to roll along the stick and shoot from the middle. Shooting from the toe adds more spin, so it's best for shooting using the boards.
Step 3
Pull the stick backward and transfer your weight to your front foot. If shooting a slap shot, your stick should pull back so that it is nearly parallel to the ice for the most power. For wrist or slide shots, you'll only pull back until your stick is a few inches off of the ice. Swing the stick forward, sweeping it straight across your body to propel the puck. As you push forward, allow your torso to rotate until it faces your target.
Step 4
Follow through with your stick to give your shot the most power. If you stop short, the puck might not go as far or as hard as you'd hoped. When you're done shooting the puck, your dominant wrist will be facing upward and your arm should be in front of your body, pointing toward your target.
References
- Suburban Hockey: Developing Shooting Technique
- "Hockey in Action"; Niki Walker, Sarah Dann; 1999
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