A turn without crossovers loses speed. A turn with crossovers gains speed. Hockey players cross over on every curved path. This drill builds the pattern in a controlled circle.
What you need: Full gear, ice rink. The faceoff circle is built for this.
Setup: Skater starts at the top of a faceoff circle.
How to run it:
- Cue: Push, Cross, Push, Cross.
- Skater goes around the circle clockwise. Inside foot pushes out; outside foot crosses in front.
- Each push generates speed. Each crossover keeps the curve.
- Five laps clockwise. Then five laps counter-clockwise (the harder direction for most kids).
- Last 2 laps each direction at full speed.
What to watch: The outside foot. Is it crossing in front or just stepping forward? The cross is the move that adds power.
If they’re struggling: Slow the speed. Or just walk through the footwork off the ice first (in shoes).
If they’ve got it: Add a stick and puck. Do the circles while controlling a puck on the inside hand.