Backward Skating Introduction
Skating
Legend
- player
- coach / parent
- movement path
How it works
Develop basic backward skating technique using the C-cut push pattern along the boards.
What you need
- hockey stick
- ice
Your focus
Backward skating is the primary defensive skating skill and is used constantly by defensemen and in defensive transitions. The C-cut push is the correct foundational technique because it uses the full inside edge to generate power without crossing the feet. Building this technique early creates the backward skating base that allows defensive-zone skating to become automatic.
Players position along the boards, facing the center ice.
Coach demonstrates the C-cut: push one foot out in a C-shape and bring it back to center, alternate feet.
Players skate backward using C-cuts along the full length of the boards.
Complete 4 lengths; coach focuses on hip-width stance and full C extension.
Goal
You're there when you can skate backward the full length of the boards without reaching for the wall for balance.
Helpful cues
- Hips over skates, do not lean backward
- Full C, push all the way out and bring the skate back in
- Your weight is on the pushing foot until the cut is complete
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Begin with single-foot C-cuts standing still before linking them while moving.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Add a puck and attempt backward skating stickhandling, keeping the puck in front while skating backward.No account needed
Build a practice plan
Add drills, keep the plan in this browser, then share a link with your staff or parents.This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.
This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.After every practice, UpLVL automatically surfaces the drills each player needs to work on most. See it for yourself.