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BY LAURA STAMM Hockey Skating Pushes And Speed H ockey is comprised of numerous complicated and intricate skating maneuvers. Each maneuver is comprised of numerous strides (steps) with each accompanied by a specific push. The totality of the pushes in a skating maneuver, performed correctly, powerfully, and quickly, results in speed. There are four major pushes in hockey skating. I created names for these pushes to help players visualize, understand, and apply them to their skating. 1. FORWARD STRIDE-PUSH The "forward stride-push" generates power on the forward stride. It is also the first push of forward crossovers (a two-step sequence). See explanation of crossovers, below. 2. BACKWARD STRIDE-PUSH The "backward C-cut push" generates power (speed) when skating straight back- ward. It is also the first push of backward crossovers sequence (a two-step sequence). 4. FORWARD C-CUT PUSH The forward C-cut push is the first push of a pivot (tight turn). It is also used in maneuvers that require agility and stability, such as when warding off an opponent or when protecting the puck. Crossover Pushes Since a crossover is a two-step maneuver, every crossover is also a two-push maneuver. FORWARD CROSSOVERS THE CROSSOVER PUSH is a means of generating power and speed Since the first push of a forward crossover is identical to the push of the forward stride, the first push of each forward crossover is the stride-push. The second push of each forward crossover is the X-push. BACKWARD CROSSOVERS Since the first push of a backward crossover is identical to the push of the backward stride, the first push of each backward crossover is the backward C-cut push. The second push of each backward crossover is the X-push. 3. X-PUSH The "X-push" is the second push of cross- overs. It provides power on the second stride (step) of both forward and backward crossovers. The X-push is often neglected or performed incorrectly, which results in poorly executed crossovers. See explanation of crossover pushes, below. Principles Of Power Generation Whether skating forward, backward, cross- ing over (forward or backward), weaving, starting, or turning, all skating pushes adhere to established principles of power generation. There are four elements involved in power generation for hockey skating - the Windup, 4 DIGITAL EDITION SKATE BUYER'S GUIDE USAHOCKEYMAGAZINE.COM Release, Follow-through and Return. The Windup is a coiling action – it is necessary to prepare the skater for power generation on the upcoming push. It can be compared to the backswing of a baseball bat, tennis racquet or golf club. The Release and Follow-through are the outward pushing action. The Return (Recovery) prepares the skater for power generation (speed) on the upcoming push. Several factors are necessary to achieve a proper Windup, Release, Follow-through, and Return. Windup EDGES: Every push is executed against an edge. Some pushes (as in the forward and backward stride) are executed against the inside edge. Others (as in the second push of forward and backward crossovers) are executed against the outside edge. In an effective push, the edge of the pushing skate grips the ice at a 45 degree angle. It is impossible to push against the flat of the blade or against a weakly angled edge. KNEE BEND: The knee of the pushing leg and the gliding leg must be bent strongly - the angle between the thigh and shin should be 90 degrees. It is important to maintain