Correcting a Faulty Stride
Usually problems with boots only come if the boots are too large and don't fit properly. New or second hand boots can sometimes be made to fit well by simply going to the sport shop and putting them into the oven (special oven please don't use the one in your kitchen) and lacing them tightly to the feet of the skater. Using Ankle Protective Skate Inserts is a very useful skate accessory for sufferers of lace bite as well as faulty stride as they will help increase comfort and supply stability to the skater. Please remember that after taking care of the above, practice proper skating strides whenever you can.  API Hockey Online Store...Your one stop hockey store!

FAULTY STRIDE - VIEW THE VIDEO

CORRECTED STRIDE - VIEW THE VIDEO

Increase Skating Efficiency
To increase efficiency while you skate, remember to bend at your knees and not the waist. By focusing on the bend of your knees you are using the strength from your "glutes" and "quads" rather than damaging your lower back. Also, by keeping your back straight you facilitate the breathing process, increasing your stamina.

POOR SKATING EFFICIENCY - VIEW THE VIDEO

CORRECTED SKATING EFFICIENCY - VIEW THE VIDEO

Increase Speed
The fastest skaters take the longest time to do ten strides. It is the contact with the ice that produces power. Many skaters leave out the gliding part of the stride and over work, producing short choppy strides. This is inefficient as well as tiring.  API Hockey Online Store...Your one stop hockey store!

Stopping on Skates
Not sure how to stop while on skates? This will most likely take a lot of practice and it is obviously not the easiest part of skating. First: Try going slowly and as you approach the area where you wish to stop, quickly turn your feet sideways in a motion that allows you to slide along the ice while still digging into it. Next: All weight must go on your outside leg. Last: Just keep trying and always remember to keep your balance.