Learning to skate

[Player Misconduct]

So, one of the things I want to do before I die is play hockey on a regular basis. But, before I do this.... I think learning how to skate, ON ICE!, will be good idea.

So, how does one go about doing this. Do lessons help? Should I just go out there and wing it? What did you do? Should I immediately practice with a stick? How good at skating do you need to be before playing? Where do you learn how to play hockey at a beginner level?

Hopefully, I want to start this week...and if it takes, I want to get a pair of skates of the birthday (April).

Any advice will help.

[Vishi05]

I would get some skates and go to a few public skates. Then there are some learn to play programs at ice rinks around here. That would benefit you a lot more than just going out and winging it.

[UnholyGoalie]

Pretty much just go out there and try it. You're gonna fall, you're gonna feel awkward, and your feet and/or back is gonna hurt, but there's no way to start skating and not go through this. Go to a few public sessions to get a feel for it. If you like it and think you can improve, drive down to Hockey Giant (Anaheim) or Hockey Monkey (Santa Ana) and get fitted for skates. Get them baked to help with the break-in time. Having your own skates means not having to rely on crappy rentals with blunt edges.

After that, then you can worry about lessons. I've never taken lessons, but I gurantee you it wouldn't be a bad idea. As for playing hockey, I'd recommend getting in on a pickup game. Even beginner leagues can be pretty competitive. Plus, leagues are for playing, not learning. You learn in practice, not during a real game.

As for what I did? Pretty much what I just said. I went with some friends to a few public sessions and tried to get some feeling for it. Then I just bit the bullet and played when they organized a pickup game. Yeah, I sucked, and still do to a degree, but if the pressure isn't on you to perform, then it makes learning a whole lot easier.

I've been skating for 4 or 5 years now and while I'm not a great skater, I skate well enough to handle myself out on the ice. It's all about practice. Good luck and welcome aboard!

[fansince67]

And learn to skate well WITHOUT THE STICK!!! Get your own skates, those rentals are no good.

[boshak]

Get skates around the $150 - $200 range. I say this because you can get a quality skate to learn on but also keep as you progress.

Just like Vishi said, go to public sessions but also stick time and pick up games. The best way to learn is just to get on the ice... experience it yourself, watch the better players, and pick up tips that way. Good luck man!

[Player Misconduct]

Thanks for all the advice...i am really looking forward to getting out there.

[WingHater]

I'm looking to do the same thing. Are you in the OC area?

[Player Misconduct]

No, Los Angeles (West side). But I would be willing to meet up, nobody wants to look like an idiot alone!

[borinka99]

I'm thinking about taking the lessons here: http://www.westminsterice.com/ I've played roller before, but never ice.

[WingHater]

I've looked into Aliso Viejo and Huntington. Thanks for the link.

[borinka99]

I've looked into Aliso Viejo and Huntington. Thanks for the link.
Find anything in HB?

[Mr. Teeny]

My brother in law just moved to Minnesota and he wanted to start learning to skate. He bought a pair and was at a free-skate over the weekend. He called me up to ask if he was doing something wrong or had his laces too tight or something because his feet were cramping up and hurting, but I told him that sort of thing is pretty common with new skates and new skaters.

I encourage you all to get out there and try it. Go to free skates for a while. Work on staying on your feet, staying in balance. Work on starts and stops. Think of Olympic speed skaters and how they come out of the blocks with their skates in a V pattern. Push off at amost 90 degree angles and bend your knees. Try to turn and glide backwards before trying to skate backwards. Give yourself time to get the hang of it, then try to find some beginner stick time somewhere... Then look for a beginner league.

[Player Misconduct]

Pickwick Ice in Burbank is the closest to my work. The hours are pretty bad, but I can get in there for the last 45 minutes (4:45-5:30) of the day for 3 bucks, rentals are also 3 bucks.

I will try to go three times a week. I will keep y'all informed of how it goes.

[Mr. Teeny]

Find anything in HB?

I haven't been there in a while, but I think Skate Zone still exists at Edinger and Gothard. It's a small ice surface, but I played there for years. Actually, the Minnesota Wild practiced there before one of our games about 5 years ago. We were all stunned that they'd go to such a small, crappy rink! I think they were playing Anaheim the game after the All-Star or Olympic break or something...

Westminster is better ice and pretty close, too.

[borinka99]

I haven't been there in a while, but I think Skate Zone still exists at Edinger and Gothard. It's a small ice surface, but I played there for years. Actually, the Minnesota Wild practiced there before one of our games about 5 years ago. We were all stunned that they'd go to such a small, crappy rink! I think they were playing Anaheim the game after the All-Star or Olympic break or something...

Westminster is better ice and pretty close, too.

Yea, Westminster Ice is about 5 minutes from my house.

[HOCKEYAHOLIC]

Playa, there is a hockey 101 class @ pickwick near you on Friday's and Monday's.Talk to coach Tian if you are interested in some private lessons. after the 101 class there is a on ice stick handling class then an off ice stick handling class. The classes are at 5 or 5:30

[dmpaquet]

I guess anything I say would just be echoing, to a certain extent. I would emphasize, though, it's probably best not to start playing any real hockey (especially leagues) before learning to skate.

Those that played roller, but not ice, go to some of the stick and puck sessions - there's the time to get a feel for the difference, not just in skating, but in stickhandling as well. The transition is pretty quick, even learning to stop on ice (compared to roller) shoudn't take too long.

And yeah - your feet might hurt a little! I've been playing for almost 15 years, and my feet are like blocks of ice by the time I'm done. And I've got some good calluses going on my inside toes. Some people get them and it's no big deal.

[Leatherface]

Id go to public sessions ,5-10 times. Try to mimic what you see players doing in terms of leaning through turns with their inside foot leading, crossing over, etc.
do "snow plows" on your inside edges to get used to edge control. try to stay even and not favor one leg more than the other.
Then try to get out to a stick time. Feel solid and somewhat comfortable on your skates before you ever take a swing at a puck.

If any one is in the OC area and wants to hit up a good stick time and get some tips, let me know, I'd be more than willing to help LGKers.

[JETS GARAGE]

Get a stick and a puck and practice stick handling and shooting on some smooth concrete. Handball/raquetball courts at schools and parks are good for this type of practice. Good luck!

[WingHater]

I haven't been there in a while, but I think Skate Zone still exists at Edinger and Gothard. It's a small ice surface, but I played there for years. Actually, the Minnesota Wild practiced there before one of our games about 5 years ago. We were all stunned that they'd go to such a small, crappy rink! I think they were playing Anaheim the game after the All-Star or Olympic break or something...

Westminster is better ice and pretty close, too.

It does but the ice is Terrible :(

[SirJW]

Get your own skates. Rental Skates Suck, the edges are almost flat, they'll hurt your feet, etc. You can get a decent pair to learn in for around $99. Go to Ice Hawk in Santa Ana and they'll hook you up. TSC has Hockey 101 or whatever it's called and it's really all skating w/ dry land hockey tips. Just skate skate skate.

[beingbobbyorr]

1) Learn to skate first. Don't even think about sticks and pucks yet.

2) Best option for learning to skate is 1-on-1 lessons, but those are expensive.

3) Next option for learning to skate is group lessons. Most every rink has some Hockey 101 classes.

4) If you really can't afford # 2 or 3, the last resort is to watch the Robby Glantz DVDs (right before your twice-weekly public skating session):

http://www.robbyglantz.com/volumeone.asp
http://www.robbyglantz.com/volumetwo.asp

[dmpaquet]

Something else to think about. I started by playing roller hockey when I was about 15 I think. Before I even played hockey, though, I was on the inlines for a couple of months, really learning to skate and move around and feel comfortable. We played stupd games like tag on inlines in the cul-de-sac (dodging trash cans, mailboxes, cars, and people). Then, I started playing pickup roller hockey out on the tennis courts. After all that I got onto a roller hockey team.

From that, the transition to ice, as I said in my previous post, was really easy. But that might be a cheaper way to go about it out in SoCal (or just about anywhere other than Mystery, Alaska - where the ice is abundant and free year round).

[Player Misconduct]

I have been pleasantly surprised with the open ice prices in my area (Burbank and TSC). It makes it a lot easier to want to go out there. Tomorrow is my first time on ice, so I will keep you all updated.

[4/10/82]

No, Los Angeles (West side). But I would be willing to meet up, nobody wants to look like an idiot alone!

culver ice arena has a pretty good league, but it is not really for the rank beginner.
if you play roller hockey or roller blade, it's not that huge a jump. it's different, for sure, especially stopping. but you won't be completely clowning.
definitely get your own skates. go in and get fitted. it doesn't cost anything extra, and it's totally worth your time. your feet will thank you.
don't skimp on gear. you'll fall a lot. get good elbow pads and shin guards. i'm a fan of high-quality pants, but i block a lot of shots. get shoulder pads, even if you play non-contact. even small shoulder pads will help.
wear a helmet.
have fun.

[Player Misconduct]

Ok, I just got back from my first skating session. Why didn't anybody tell me the ice was so slippery?!?!

Overall, I had a great time...and I made leaps and bounds from when I entered the ice (had to hold the wall) to when I left (didn;t have to hold the wall). I noticed that I was skating on my inside edges...hopefully my ankle strength will improve and I will get better. I plan to go M,W,F.

[UnholyGoalie]

I noticed that I was skating on my inside edges...hopefully my ankle strength will improve and I will get better. I plan to go M,W,F.

That's normal, and yes your muscles will adapt. You'll notice when you start skating that you're using muscles that you rarely ever use, simply to keep balance. Ice skating is also great cardio. Good to hear you had fun!

[4/10/82]

Ok, I just got back from my first skating session. Why didn't anybody tell me the ice was so slippery?!?!

Overall, I had a great time...and I made leaps and bounds from when I entered the ice (had to hold the wall) to when I left (didn;t have to hold the wall). I noticed that I was skating on my inside edges...hopefully my ankle strength will improve and I will get better. I plan to go M,W,F.

yeah, the inside is where you want to be. good skates will help your ankles, but you'll get stronger soon enough. you'll also notice your groin, hamstring and glutes will tighten up. the big bonus is, you'll get the round ass chicks dig.

another thing... bend your knees a lot more than you think you need to. if your lower back hurts, it's because you're leaning over way too much. lower your center of gravity by bending your knees, not your back.

[Bogey]

As others have said, hope you got your own skates.

Work on Xs and Cs to help start feeling both edges.

Here's an interesting site I just found:
http://www.nfha.com/ahmdrills/crossovers.htm

[HOCKEYAHOLIC]

As far as the ankle situation. I have torn ligaments in both ankles, I have CCM skates that I had heat molded to my feet so they are nice and snug. Makes it a lot more comfortable to skate without worring about folding my foot under me.

[beingbobbyorr]

Id go to public sessions ,5-10 times. ....

Nothing angers me more than ice rinks that don't (or worse, won't) turn the direction around once in a while during a public session. All the laziest people on the planet must be drawn to working in ice rinks.

You must get just as comfortable doing left-over-right crossovers (going clockwise around the rink) as right-over left (going counter-clockwise ... the default for most rinks). If your rink won't turn the direction around, then just go against the grain on your own every 20 minutes, and if the rink attendent complains that you're not going in the "right" direction: tell him to get on the PA system and switch it up or else **** off.

[Bogey]

Nothing angers me more than ice rinks that don't (or worse, won't) turn the direction around once in a while during a public session. All the laziest people on the planet must be drawn to working in ice rinks.

You must get just as comfortable doing left-over-right crossovers (going clockwise around the rink) as right-over left (going counter-clockwise ... the default for most rinks). If your rink won't turn the direction around, then just go against the grain on your own every 20 minutes, and if the rink attendent complains that you're not going in the "right" direction: tell him to get on the PA system and switch it up or else **** off.Yes, it's very retarded that they don't change directions.

I usually just go into one of the corners and go the opposite direction around the face-off circle, keeping and eye out for oncoming traffic of course.

[beingbobbyorr]

Yes, it's very retarded that they don't change directions.

I usually just go into one of the corners and go the opposite direction around the face-off circle, keeping and eye out for oncoming traffic of course.

I've seen enough head-on collisions from this (usually between adults and children) to know that this is not the appropriate solution.

If I were making an unreasonable demand (which I've been known to do), I could understand the rinks ignoring it ..... but I'm not. It's just flat-out how-did-****-sapiens-ever-rise-from-the-caves laziness.

[Bogey]

I've seen enough head-on collisions from this (usually between adults and children) to know that this is not the appropriate solution.Not a solution, just what I do.
Never had any close calls myself.

[Player Misconduct]

I purchased a pair of skates over the weekend. I got them "baked" and I had to get one section stretched out a little. Of course a sharpening came with the package. I am going out on the ice today to try them out. Maintenance tips?

I ended up getting these skates: http://shop.nhl.com/sm-nike-bauer-supreme-10-senior-ice-hockey-skate--pi-2213061.html.

Wish me luck! I will give you an update of the embarrassment tomorrow.

[borinka99]

I purchased a pair of skates over the weekend. I got them "baked" and I had to get one section stretched out a little. Of course a sharpening came with the package. I am going out on the ice today to try them out. Maintenance tips?

I ended up getting these skates: http://shop.nhl.com/sm-nike-bauer-supreme-10-senior-ice-hockey-skate--pi-2213061.html.

Wish me luck! I will give you an update of the embarrassment tomorrow.
Let me know how they feel. How much did you pay total with the sharpening package and all.

[jlhamon]

And learn to skate well WITHOUT THE STICK!!! Get your own skates, those rentals are no good.

Everybody has given great advise, but this is my favorite. I've seen guys try to learn to skate in pickup games - it really hurts you if you use your stick for balance (your skating and your game).

I would add, if your goal is to play hockey, that you get some pads on. then, first thing when you step on the ice, fall on them. That gives you confidence in your pads and takes away some of the awkwardness because you know falling won't hurt.

Good luck and have fun!

[UnholyGoalie]

Maintenance tips?

I don't really know. Pretty common sense stuff like let them air dry after you skate, buy some blade covers, wipe the blades off after your done. Other than that I don't think there's much to do. At least, I don't do anything else to my skates and they seem to be fine, had them for a few years now.

[jlhamon]

moisture definitely hurts - I learned the hard way. Make sure your skates can dry off. dry the blades, don't keep them in your hockey bag, and take the footbeds out so they can dry.

[Shredder]

Hey man.. good to see you did it!

Lots of good advice in here.. I would also add to hit the stick times as much as you can. You dont even have to use a puck, just getting out there with the stick in your hand and the pads on will help.. I felt I progressed slower in publics cause it hurt like a mofo if you fell on your knees or something without your pads.. so I tried less.

Let me know if you are going to hit a stick time at TSC or Culver, and if I dont have to work I'll come out and give you some pointers :)

[Player Misconduct]

Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the great advice. It really helps motivate me that you are trying to help.

So, the skates felt great (but what do I know about how they are supposed to feel). My heel is locked in and they are snug all the way around. They fit how I think they are supposed to. I got the skates for 80 bucks out the door.

So, I fell today for the first time. Um......ouch. Really ouch. I couldn't curse because all the 5-8 year olds were around. I think I am hesitant to try harder because I don't want to fall. I think getting some pads might help that fear of pain.

[SirJW]

If they don't hurt they fit great.

[chief99]

I think I am hesitant to try harder because I don't want to fall. I think getting some pads might help that fear of pain.

Yes, get some pads. You will fall and you MUST fall in order to learn how to skate and play Hockey. Expect to fall a lot when you get your pads and be happy about it, and I mean that in a good way, because that means your taking chances and thats the only way to learn this game. Sooner you lose that fear of falling, the sooner you will learn and when you "get it", it'll be one of the best days of your life.
Keep it up Man!!!

[boshak]

I actually have a set routine for skate maintenance. After I skate I'll wipe of the ice with my fingers, towel it dry, and put on my cloth blades covers (outside of the arena). I do the last part outside 'cause sometimes the blade perspires from the temperature difference in and out of the arena. Some might call this obsessive, but hey, skates are essential AND expensive!

I also pull the tongue forward as far as I can, take out the footbed, and run my towel through the inside of the boot. It keeps out the moisture, lets it breath, and keeps it from smelling so bad. :X

Wow, this post is all about the three point sentence theme.

[beingbobbyorr]

Yes, get some pads. You will fall and you MUST fall in order to learn how to skate and play Hockey. Expect to fall a lot when you get your pads and be happy about it, and I mean that in a good way, because that means your taking chances and thats the only way to learn this game. Sooner you lose that fear of falling, the sooner you will learn and when you "get it", it'll be one of the best days of your life.
Keep it up Man!!!

If you're not willing to buy full hockey gear to wear during public skates (either you don't want to make the $$$ commitment or you don't want to look like a geek to the non-hockey skaters), the next best thing is to buy:

* 2 pairs of volleyball pads: one for your knees and one for your elbows
* 1 pair of (cheap) hockey gloves

The reason for the volleyball pads is obvious. The reason you need the hockey gloves is to keep from hyperextending your fingers & thumbs when you try to break your falls by putting your arm out as you approach the ice (hyperextended digits hurts like a sonofabitch and you may have trouble getting your full range of motion back).



.... I also pull the tongue forward as far as I can, take out the footbed, and run my towel through the inside of the boot. It keeps out the moisture, lets it breath, and keeps it from smelling so bad. :X
....

Completely agree. Also, by taking the footbed out & drying the innards, you keep the metal fasteners (that attach the blade/blade holder to the boot) from rusting out prematurely.

I saw a guy's skate fail like this in the middle of a pickup game. He had to go borrow a pair of public rental skates. Boy did he look awkward for the rest of the game ..... or maybe it was the groin strain he'd suffered when his skate blade fell off in mid-stride because the rusty fastener snapped :)

[Player Misconduct]

Lets say I do get some hockey pads. What would I need? Shin, elbow pads, hockey pants, and gloves (gloves I got taken care of). Is that all?

[Player Misconduct]

If you're not willing to buy full hockey gear to wear during public skates (either you don't want to make the $$$ commitment or you don't want to look like a geek to the non-hockey skaters), the next best thing is to buy:

Not too worried about looking like a geek since there is a dude who wears short, SHORT, red shorts while skating. I think all eyes our on him; wary parents.

I want to learn faster, so if that means looking stupid, hell, I am mature enough to handle that. Who is going to laugh at me? All the 8 year old girls learning how to figure skate?

[boshak]

Lets say I do get some hockey pads. What would I need? Shin, elbow pads, hockey pants, and gloves (gloves I got taken care of). Is that all?

Just for skating? Yup!


Who is going to laugh at me? All the 8 year old girls learning how to figure skate?

Yup! Hehheh.

[kinglakerfan]

Hey everybody, I've been looking to learn how to skate for sometime as well, but I never learned how to rollerblade/skate. Is it necessary to have that ability or is it advised?

I've been on the ice once in skates at the mall which is 2 min. from my place here in San Diego, and jesus i never felt like more of an idiot, lol. It was more like grab-the-board-and-shuffle than skate, plus it didn't help that my friends were skating around and checking me into the glass. And another thing that drives me crazy is seeing these little kids skate like it's nothing, and here I am...

[HOCKEYAHOLIC]

DON'T BE A BOARD HUGGER. get out and fall. Playa, it was good to see you at the rink last week. didn't get to watch you skate, busy lacing up but hopefully see ya next week. Keep it up bro.

[boshak]

Hey everybody, I've been looking to learn how to skate for sometime as well, but I never learned how to rollerblade/skate. Is it necessary to have that ability or is it advised?

It helps, but not necessary. Actually, it might even hurt to learn and be comfortable with rollerblading first... For example, stopping with rollerblades is a little bit different than stopping on ice (powerslide vs. hockey stop... unless you can hockey stop in blades). So learning to stop on rollerblades usually creates bad habits on ice.


I've been on the ice once in skates at the mall which is 2 min. from my place here in San Diego

UTC? You must be rich. Either that or your parents are!

Anyway, if you're talking about UTC and you rented skates... They're probably the worst rental skates I've ever seen. Rental skates are already bad to begin with and when I saw the rentals at UTC... I was pretty disgusted. Blue plastic (literally) boots, fully rusted blades, and ratchet straps (no laces)

Try and make the drive out to SD Ice (http://www.sdice.com) in Mira Mesa or Kroc Center (http://www.kroccenterice.com/) off of the 8. Now I'm not saying switching from the worst rental skate to a regular rental skate will change your experience, but it will help a little. Plus, UTC is also known to be pretty crowded with mallrats and children who don't want to shop with mama.

[kinglakerfan]

It helps, but not necessary. Actually, it might even hurt to learn and be comfortable with rollerblading first... For example, stopping with rollerblades is a little bit different than stopping on ice (powerslide vs. hockey stop... unless you can hockey stop in blades). So learning to stop on rollerblades usually creates bad habits on ice.



UTC? You must be rich. Either that or your parents are!

Anyway, if you're talking about UTC and you rented skates... They're probably the worst rental skates I've ever seen. Rental skates are already bad to begin with and when I saw the rentals at UTC... I was pretty disgusted. Blue plastic (literally) boots, fully rusted blades, and ratchet straps (no laces)

Try and make the drive out to SD Ice (http://www.sdice.com) in Mira Mesa or Kroc Center (http://www.kroccenterice.com/) off of the 8. Now I'm not saying switching from the worst rental skate to a regular rental skate will change your experience, but it will help a little. Plus, UTC is also known to be pretty crowded with mallrats and children who don't want to shop with mama.
HAHA, I'm not rich but my parents have enough money to buy a condo down here.

Yeah, the UTC skates seemed uber-ghetto when I wore them, but I was just trying to have fun. It says on the UTC Icetown site that they have free introductory lessons on Saturday mornings. Do you guys have any idea what those are like, or if it would be worth it to go? Just don't wanna waste my time if they usually suck. Thanks for the help, this thread is really awesome.

[SirJW]

kinglakerfan,
Just try it out. If it's good you'll be happy, if it stinks maybe you can talk to the teacher and find out where there is a good class. If you really are serious get your own skates. Try Play it Again Sports in PB. You don't need anything fancy or Pro right now, just a pair that feel comfortable. Under $100 should be fine.

[SirJW]

Player Misconduct,

If you really are serious go ahead and get the gear. At this stage I recommend Play It Again Sports or craigslist. Once you get better, you are going to know what you like and don't like so don't waste money right now on expensive gear.

[UnholyGoalie]

Yeah, the UTC skates seemed uber-ghetto when I wore them, but I was just trying to have fun. It says on the UTC Icetown site that they have free introductory lessons on Saturday mornings. Do you guys have any idea what those are like, or if it would be worth it to go? Just don't wanna waste my time if they usually suck. Thanks for the help, this thread is really awesome.

As I said before, I've never taken lessons. They'd probably be a good idea, you'll get taught proper form and all that. Lessons or not, the key is to get out there and practice. Nothing will help you more than quality ice time.

I also concur with getting your own skates. Nothing too expensive, but some good skates that you can get fitted to your own feet and can control the sharpness of the blades.

I can also relate to feeling like a fool. Try going to the driving range and driving a ball 100 yards, while a thirteen year old boy that hasn't hit puberty yet is pounding them over 200 yards right next to you. In the end you ain't gonna get any better by not going out and practicing.

[UnderTheGUN]

I used to coach kids hockey. Kids that were used to roller used to sign up. We had one kid who had some hockey skills because he had been playing roller hockey, but he had not seriously ice skated before. At our first practice I had everybody sprint goal line to goal line to see how each of them skated. This roller kid got his speed up and when he got to the other end he did a roller style spinning stop. That was the funniest sight ever. He spun like a top before crashing to the ice!

[Player Misconduct]

Hey guy/gals...

So I have been skating more, and having more fun. But I have some questions:

1) How do you stop?
2) Is there a proper way to lace the skates so they fit the same everytime?
3) How do I stop skating with bent ankles, and stand up straight?

[HOCKEYAHOLIC]

I'll try to get there a little earlier next week and help you with stopping.

I lace my skates tight since I have torn ligaments in both ankles but I am sure others do different.

[SirJW]

New skates are a bit hard to get used to; once they break in they'll be easier to tie. It’s all preference. I don’t tie the front too tight but crank the ankle and just tie them snug one eyelet down.

Try waxed laces, they hold better and if you are going tight - try a skate key (lace lightener).
http://www.penaltyboxsports.com/img/accessories/lace-tighteners.jpg

[fansince67]

If your skates are new your ankles shouldn't bend. There should be enough support in them to hold your ankles up. If not, I'd Lace your skates up tighter. See if that helps.

As far as stopping, do you ski? If you do and can imitate when you turn your skis to catch an edge, do the same thing on skates and throw your weight into it. Watch the pros and imitate them.

[IMPACT]

Another beginner here and I had a question for you all. I have flat feet and when I use my skates my feet cramp up real bad. Now these are skate that I got as a gift so I have never been to a store for a fitting so is that the most obvious thing I should do? and What exactly is heat molding?

[Player Misconduct]

Another beginner here and I had a question for you all. I have flat feet and when I use my skates my feet cramp up real bad. Now these are skate that I got as a gift so I have never been to a store for a fitting so is that the most obvious thing I should do? and What exactly is heat molding?

Heat molding is where the skates are put in a "oven" and heated. This loosens the glue and fabric. Then the skates are put on your feet and you sit with them on (feet at a 90 degree angle) for 15 minutes. When teh skate cools, it will mold around your feel becoming more comfortable. IF you feel any pressure points after that, they can usually heat up that one spot and stretch it out.

Heat molding is awesome, get it done.

[Player Misconduct]

As far as stopping, do you ski? If you do and can imitate when you turn your skis to catch an edge, do the same thing on skates and throw your weight into it. Watch the pros and imitate them.

Ok, when I mean my ankles are weak, I mean that I am skating primarly on my inside edges. Not standing straight on the blade.

I do ski, a lot....but trying to stop on skates feels SO DIFFERENT than on skis. I will try it, but I can predict much pain from failing.

I got to bite the bullet and get some pads.

[fansince67]

Ok, when I mean my ankles are weak, I mean that I am skating primarly on my inside edges. Not standing straight on the blade.

I do ski, a lot....but trying to stop on skates feels SO DIFFERENT than on skis. I will try it, but I can predict much pain from failing.

I got to bite the bullet and get some pads.

It does feel different, but that's the best way I can explain it. As far as the ankles, I'm not sure why you're having the problem with new skates. New skates should be very stiff and not broken in at all like rental skates. The problem you're describing is very common to rental skates.

Hope you don't hurt yourself too bad. It's alot easier to learn when you're young. Good luck to you.

[Player Misconduct]

22 is young, but it is not like I am 5. I see those little hooligans fall in ways that would break any adult.

[Mr. Teeny]

22 is young, but it is not like I am 5. I see those little hooligans fall in ways that would break any adult.

I learned when I was 20... The key is getting the pads and going out there and doing it. The more you do it, the more you try, the more confidence you'll have. The more pads you have on, the less you'll be worried about ending up on your butt or landing on your elbow or things like that.

Get the feel for shaving the ice with your blade. Stand there on one skate and take your other foot and shave the ice out in front of you with the inside of your blade. Think snow plow position. Do it with both skates to get the feel for the pressure on the ice.

Then push off and go slow and do the same thing... one skate out in front, turning it sideways, shaving the ice with the inside of the blade until you stop. Do it with both skates. Get the feel. Then try a little faster and a little faster and soon you'll have the confidence in that method.

After that, you can start using both feet at the same time. Your lead foot will be on the inside edge, your rear foot will be on its outside edge. Give this a while, and get pads before you start getting crazy with it. Once you get crazy, start stopping using only your rear foot on the outside edge.

Have fun!

[UnholyGoalie]

Another beginner here and I had a question for you all. I have flat feet and when I use my skates my feet cramp up real bad. Now these are skate that I got as a gift so I have never been to a store for a fitting so is that the most obvious thing I should do? and What exactly is heat molding?

As has been stated, "baking" the skates is literally putting them in a small oven to warm them up (I wouldn't recommend you do this at home, since the oven they use doesn't get that hot), then you lace them up and let them cool. While this cuts down on break-in time a lot, it doesn't completely eliminate it. Some added break in time will probably be needed.

Obviously, getting properly fitted at a store is key. If you live here in So. Cal, go down to Hockey Giant in Anaheim or Hockey Monkey in Santa Ana.

As for flat feet, maybe try some superfeet insoles or other orthotics. You can get something like that at the two places I just mentioned.

As for stopping, I still can't do a real hockey stop, but since I'm a goalie, I don't exactly need to either. Usually I just do a two skate snow-plow thing that slows me down quickly as opposed to stopping. Basically, as I skate forwards I point my toes inward and lean more into the instep of my skates. This, I assume, is probably the most basic way of stopping, but it works for me.

[Player Misconduct]

Let me thank everybody again for the help you are providing in this thread. I trully log onto LGK for the sole reason to see if anybody has more advice for me (and the other beginners).

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.

Hopefully I am not annoying about with my rentless stream of questions.

[SirJW]

If you have flat feet definitely get foot beds, you can go to REI or the skate shop. If you have skinny feet like me foot beds help to fill the volume of the skate.

Age is something to consider. In a nutshell if you start skating at an early age the muscles develop to mimic the motion it takes to skate. If you start at a later age your muscles will have to compensate to mimic the motion. So it’s a little more difficult to do, but don’t get discouraged.

It sounds like you are ready for lessons, earlier in the thread there were suggestions, seek them out.

[Player Misconduct]

In terms of used hockey gear, how much should things cost? When I got to people's houses to try stuff on, how do I know if things fit?

Hopefully people will sell use parts of a set instead of an entire package (helmet, shoulder, elbow, pants, shins, gloves, stick, socks, etc). How much would a used set like that cost?

[spjon25]

Player Misconduct...contact me, I have an extra pair of shin pads, and an extra pair of elbow pads depending on your size. Roughly I am 5'9 and have a pair of RBK 5K elbow pads used 2 times, and a pair of Bauer Shin Pads used probably about 10 times. Let me know...PM me

[UnholyGoalie]

Well, unless you're gonna be buying goalie gear, I can't really offer much advice. But the general rule of trying something on before you buy it still holds. Unless you know what you like, I'd shy away from buying used gear on ebay. For the fit, I dunno. I guess if it's comfortable without feeling overly cumbersome and restricting, you're good to go.

It'll probably take some getting used to. I don't imagine most shoulder pads to be comfortable the first time you put them on. Just understand that all these pieces of equipment will break in over time just like your skates and to get something that fits like a glove right off the bat is pretty rare.

Much like your skates, I'd suggest not getting top of the line gear until you know what your preferences are. Better to spend $20 on used gloves and not like them than buying $95 gloves and not liking them either. Check for a local Play It Again Sports. If you're here in the Valley, there's one across from Trader Joes near Ventura and Laurel Canyon. And of course the two hockey meccas of Hockey Giant and Hockey Monkey down the 5 fwy.

[HOCKEYAHOLIC]

I trully log onto LGK for the sole reason to see if anybody has more advice for me

I call BS there. the "sole reason" ya right. this thread doesn't have all 1,100 post of yours in it. HAHA

p.s. I miss the SB

[Player Misconduct]

I call BS there. the "sole reason" ya right. this thread doesn't have all 1,100 post of yours in it. HAHA

p.s. I miss the SB

To be fair, most of my posts came from the "Ask KJ anything thread..." which at the time was my sole reason.

Ok, fine...this thread is my primary reason to come to LGK.

I miss the SB too.

---
I contacted a couple of dudes off craigslist. Most people are selling ENTIRE sets for a hundred (without skates). But I don;t want to buy a helmet yet, nor used socks (nasty).

SP, I will contact you soon.

Regardless I am going to try everything on before I buy.

[beingbobbyorr]

... I contacted a couple of dudes off craigslist. Most people are selling ENTIRE sets for a hundred (without skates). But I don;t want to buy a helmet yet, nor used socks (nasty).

SP, I will contact you soon.

Regardless I am going to try everything on before I buy.


If you factor in:

* the cost of your time & the cost of gas to drive to every corner of SoCal looking for "bargains"

* the cost of your time & health if some of the "bargain" used gear turns out to induce skin infections/rashes (this is no joke)

.... you may find that it's a better real bargain to simply make the commitment ("I AM going to become a hockey player!") and make one trip down to Hawk Hockey and buy a low-priced set of gear. If you tell the Hawk Hockey people your budget, they can help you get the best bang for your buck (they are shockingly honest people, which is why so many of us recommend them).

[Player Misconduct]

If you factor in:

* the cost of your time & the cost of gas to drive to every corner of SoCal looking for "bargains"

* the cost of your time & health if some of the "bargain" used gear turns out to induce skin infections/rashes (this is no joke)

.... you may find that it's a better real bargain to simply make the commitment ("I AM going to become a hockey player!") and make one trip down to Hawk Hockey and buy a low-priced set of gear. If you tell the Hawk Hockey people your budget, they can help you get the best bang for your buck (they are shockingly honest people, which is why so many of us recommend them).

Skin infection? Nasty.

Would I be able to go there with a hundred bucks in hand and leave fulfilled?

[pkd88]

To help your skating I recommend a book by Laura Stamm.
http://www.amazon.com/Laura-Stamms-Power-Skating-Stamm/dp/0880113316
The book explains how the edges on your skates work etc. It is very important to understand this if you want to learn to power skate.

In order to use this book you have to have some ability to read and learn from books. The book is sort of technical when it comes to technique but if you are able to understand this sort of instruction, it will help you.

For buying equipment to play hockey, I am going to recommend that you spend your money with some sense of priority. You should spend more on things that provide more impact (or less lol)

1 Skates - do not be frugal. Get the best you can afford
2 Shin Pads - you get hit a lot on these, pucks and sticks
3 Gloves - getting hit on the hands hurt and most of us have to use our hands at work
4 Shield or cage - Getting cut on the fact sucks. Trying to explain why you have a black eye or a ton of bandaids while at work is worse.
5 Helmet - I have never fallen and hit my head. I have been hit in the face by sticks and pucks but nothing ever serious
6 Elbow pads - you will fall and it is a natural fall breaker. These also protect you from sticks
7 Pants - These mostly protect you from the pucks but occasionally from sticks.
8 Shoulder pads - I have only been hit in the upper body once and this was last week. I have had a bruise for 2 weeks now. I played without shoulder pads for years, it is mostly to protect you from the puck but a little from sticks.

There are miscellaneos things you need:
Cup/Jock - I have only ever been hit in the groin once and it was a guy who did it on purpose in front of the net (Hi Brian you prick). I have never been hit by the puck in the groin. They have shorts that hold your cup in place and also hold your socks up using velcro.
Socks - you will need a pair or 2
Tape - You need tape for your stick but some use it for their socks/pads to keep things in place
Jerseys - you need a dark and a white jersey. A kings Jersey works fine.


To get your skates to fit all the time:
use very thin socks (or skate without socks). Use the waxed laces. They don't move around on their own but the skates are harder to take off or put on.

To get your foot correctly in the skate:
Put the skate on your foot and then
bang your heal back into the skate
+
bang your foot down onto the blade.

When you start tightening the laces, you want to push your foot down and back.

The heal should be locked into place in your skate. Your toes can move freely but your heel is your base. If you foot is sliding around at the heel, you need to re-tie your skates as instructed above.


Skating tips:
It is important to understand your 4 edges (2 per skate) and your flat.
Your weight should always be OVER your skate. Watch when Kopitar is skating, his but is down so his body mass if over his skates. Knees bent, but down, head and chest up.
When turning, lean your upper body over your skates. This seems to be impossible but it is not. If you are turning to the left (counter-clockwise) your skates are leaning to the left (like a motorcycle) while at your hips, your upperbody is leaning to the right. You are putting your weight on top of your skates.

Good luck.

[pkd88]

Another note on skating speed.

You see that people discuss "power skating" because that is what skating speed is. Skating speed is NOT how fast you move your feet, it is the power in your stride. (Stride is not he right word either, it is the power in your push off)

The physical motion used to move your body on the ice is a power movement, and the stronger you can push yourself, the faster you will glide on the ice.

If you remember the bodies of the great speed skaters, they have huge thighs and butts. These are the muscles that make you a powerful and fast skater.

Running is you putting one foot in front of the other. Your speed based on how fast you can put your foot in front of the other.
Skating is you pushing the weight of your body against 1 (one!) edge of your skate. Your speed is based on the power of that push.

The better you understand this and how to translate your strength to the edges of your blades, the better a skater you will be.

[dmpaquet]

Saw some good comments and just thought I'd add...


For the fit, I dunno. I guess if it's comfortable without feeling overly cumbersome and restricting, you're good to go.

Whether you're gonna buy new or used equipment, your best bet might be to go to a hockey store and have them fit you with gear, just so you get an idea for exactly how it should fit. When you're in full hockey gear, it's going to feel a little uncomfortable until you get used to it. And whenever you get new gear, even years later, you'll still notice a different feel until it's broken in (the last time I bought shinpads, it felt like they were huge, like Modano's, even though they were normal size - kinda like one time when I bought white tennis shoes and kept seeing them in my peripheral vision).

Incidentally, some stores might have sales around the next couple of months, as hockey seasons wind down for the summer. Between now and the beginning of the autumn, you might find some things for cheap (as come the new season, new lines of products will come out, so the old stuff is sometimes on sale).



* the cost of your time & health if some of the "bargain" used gear turns out to induce skin infections/rashes (this is no joke)


Even your own gear should be cleaned or dried... I dry my gloves out and still got a staph infection. Yikes! The thing with used gear is knowing exactly how much life it's got left in it (and obviously disinfecting it). For instance, you don't want to get a pair of shinpads and they fall apart on you a week later. I recommend you take BBO with you. He knows his stuff!




For buying equipment to play hockey, I am going to recommend that you spend your money with some sense of priority. You should spend more on things that provide more impact (or less lol)

1 Skates - do not be frugal. Get the best you can afford
2 Shin Pads - you get hit a lot on these, pucks and sticks
3 Gloves - getting hit on the hands hurt and most of us have to use our hands at work
4 Shield or cage - Getting cut on the fact sucks. Trying to explain why you have a black eye or a ton of bandaids while at work is worse.
5 Helmet - I have never fallen and hit my head. I have been hit in the face by sticks and pucks but nothing ever serious
6 Elbow pads - you will fall and it is a natural fall breaker. These also protect you from sticks
7 Pants - These mostly protect you from the pucks but occasionally from sticks.
8 Shoulder pads - I have only been hit in the upper body once and this was last week. I have had a bruise for 2 weeks now. I played without shoulder pads for years, it is mostly to protect you from the puck but a little from sticks.

There are miscellaneos things you need:
Cup/Jock - I have only ever been hit in the groin once and it was a guy who did it on purpose in front of the net (Hi Brian you prick). I have never been hit by the puck in the groin. They have shorts that hold your cup in place and also hold your socks up using velcro.
Socks - you will need a pair or 2
Tape - You need tape for your stick but some use it for their socks/pads to keep things in place
Jerseys - you need a dark and a white jersey. A kings Jersey works fine.


Most of the stick times will require you to wear most of that gear. By the way, Pkd, I'll never go out without a cup! I've been hit in junk with a puck twice, off dump-ins or clearing attempts, not even shots. Even with the cup, talk about pain! And the occasional cup-check.

As for skates, I'd say hold off on the top of the line, $450 skates until you've played a while. As a beginner, you won't be in danger of putting so much stress on your skates that they break. You can find reasonably good skates for a little less.




Another note on skating speed.

You see that people discuss "power skating" because that is what skating speed is. Skating speed is NOT how fast you move your feet, it is the power in your stride. (Stride is not he right word either, it is the power in your push off)

The physical motion used to move your body on the ice is a power movement, and the stronger you can push yourself, the faster you will glide on the ice.

If you remember the bodies of the great speed skaters, they have huge thighs and butts. These are the muscles that make you a powerful and fast skater.

Running is you putting one foot in front of the other. Your speed based on how fast you can put your foot in front of the other.
Skating is you pushing the weight of your body against 1 (one!) edge of your skate. Your speed is based on the power of that push.

The better you understand this and how to translate your strength to the edges of your blades, the better a skater you will be.

This is simply a great piece of advice, and very well stated. The skating clinics will emphasize this, hopefully. I went to a few up in San Jose - they really made it a point of working with you on your stride, as described above. The comparison to running is a good one. You don't want to be taking a lot of short strides in an effort to skate fast. You won't skate as fast as you could, it'll take longer to accelerate, and you'll be wasting way too much energy which you'll find is needed for other aspects of the game.

[Player Misconduct]

How would one go disinfecting hockey gear??

[borinka99]

This thread should be stickied (if it isn't already), lots of great advice in here!

[pkd88]

Most of the stick times will require you to wear most of that gear. By the way, Pkd, I'll never go out without a cup! I've been hit in junk with a puck twice, off dump-ins or clearing attempts, not even shots. Even with the cup, talk about pain! And the occasional cup-check.

As for skates, I'd say hold off on the top of the line, $450 skates until you've played a while. As a beginner, you won't be in danger of putting so much stress on your skates that they break. You can find reasonably good skates for a little less.


Maybe I was not clear. I never go without a cup either. I am just saying that I have only ever had one "hit" there and I did have a cup on. It was still very painful.

To me it is an always piece of gear because it also holds my socks up.




As for skates, I'd say hold off on the top of the line, $450 skates until you've played a while. As a beginner, you won't be in danger of putting so much stress on your skates that they break. You can find reasonably good skates for a little less.

Yes, for experimenting and deciding if you want to keep going, low skates are fine. If you are going to commit to playing hockey, then go for better.

Quality skates show a pretty strong return

[pkd88]

How would one go disinfecting hockey gear??

Washing machine with some sort of disinfectant cleaner? Rubbing alcohol? Soak it in something then wash it to rinse it?
If you keep leather wet is should dry naturally and stay soft I think.

I think you should skip the dryer and use cold water.

[Player Misconduct]

I looked at some dudes stuff yesterday and it was NASTY. It is becoming apparent that I will have to go buy some new stuff.

Yo BBO, can I get the bare necessities for 100 from hockey hawk?

[UnholyGoalie]

Rubbing alcohol?

Mmm, rubbing alcohol worries me. I'd be afraid of compromising the plastics. If you use it on styrofoam (like, in a helmet) say goodbye to whatever protection it will give you.

With my gear, I periodically wash everything with regular clothes detergent and maybe a shot of febreeze. I've heard of many guys dumping boiling water into gloves to rinse out the built up germs. I'm planning on trying this soon but haven't yet, so YMMV. The main thing I do EVERY time is open my bag and piece out all the gear to air dry for days. Once everything is dry I'll pack everything back up but only if I'll be playing within a few days. I'm rehabbing my back and haven't played in a while, as such, my gear is out of the bag and pieced out in the garage.

[beingbobbyorr]

....Would I be able to go there with a hundred bucks in hand and leave fulfilled?

Call their Santa Ana store, explain your budget and your knowledge of what equipment is top priority and what equipment is "whatever", describe yourself (height, weight, waist, hand size (glove sales desk at local department store can tell you)), and see if they can help you:

http://www.hockeymonkey.com/info.html

Do the same with Play It Again Sports, too.

http://www.playitagainsports.com/franchise/storefinder.asp


One question: if $100 is "all" you have for equipment (other than skates, which you already got?) ..... where are you going to get the money for all the sticktime, public skates, pickup games, coaching, and gas money for driving around to rinks, etc., etc., that you'll need to get any good at it?

There's no evading the fact that this is an expensive sport.



To help your skating I recommend a book by Laura Stamm....

For a few dollars more, I'd think her video would be more useful, no?

http://www.laurastamm.com/merchdse.html



4 Shield or cage - Getting cut on the fact sucks. Trying to explain why you have a black eye or a ton of bandaids while at work is worse.
...

I think dropping the fact that you play hockey is great around the office, especially for attracting females.

[Player Misconduct]

No, 100 bucks just for gear. That is what I wanted to pay.

And BBO, I am no stranger to expensive sports. I am a road cyclist and hockey is nothing compared to that. I just want to spend the least amount I can on gear now because when I do get better, and want to play with the real kids...I will be buying all new gear.

[pkd88]

Cleaning Gear:
I would think plain old washing machines would help clean your stuff out. Just do one peice of gear at a time. Maybe with some oxy cleaner. Don't use the dryer, let it dry naturally.

My idea about rubbing alcohol would be to mix it in with water. I would avoid water too hot so the plastics don't change shape.

Speed Skating Video:
I have never seen her video. I only have her book.

I am 41 years old now and slowing down. I stopped playing for a few years and put on some weight. I am playing again but only at the low and mid levels. I am trying to get my weight down, my strength up and my endurance up. I think my strides are still pretty good but my aggressiveness with the puck is WAY WAY WAY down. I won't even try a move anymore, I just circle back and look to pass.

EDIT: LOL I wrote that like I was really good before or something. I am not as good as I was but I was not that good lol

Cuts on the face:
I am ugly and getting cut doesn't help me with ladies. Actually I am very shy and have low self confidence, maybe a nice gash would help me.

I have some sort of pimple/boil or something on my eye now and it looks like I was hit by the puck. People ask me if I was hit by a puck but I tell the truth. They don't seem to be attracted to it :)

I have one fear that almost came true several years ago and that is falling on a skate blade. A few years ago, I was pushed down from behind and my face landed on some other guys skate blade. Literally, the steel hit my tooth. I was not hurt at all but very badly creeped out and shaken.


Gear:
I would think you can get starter gear for under $200 (not counting skates).

Personally, I buy gear from Vic at the Skating Edge. He is a wonderful guy who seems to give me a discount on everything I buy. Plus you can ask him about playing in the NHL. He is a really nice guy.

Vic may just like me because I showed him how to find NHL games on the internet lol. Ask him about chasing Bobby Orr :)

I could have sworn that Hockey Monkey did gear packs at various prices but I don't see them on there.

We have not discussed buying sticks at all either...



Staring to play

It has been my observation that starting to pay hockey in LA is pretty tough. There are very few new players and even at the beginner levels, you are playing against players who have been playing for some time.

I think you get no new playes when the Kings don't go too far into the playoffs so we really have had no new players since 1993 :)

Kids that played midget or juniors are of couse too good and are not newcomers.
It is hard to get started.

[pkd88]

Something else about starting to play and new gear...

It seems to me that the starting levels are much more dangerous then the upper levels. At the upper levels, they shoot harder and skate faster but they are more accurate.

I get hit by sticks far more often at the lower level then at the upper level. I have a huge bruise on my arm from being slashed and that happened at the lowest level.

At the lower level, they players are out of control. Their sticks are swinging every which way and they are just chasing the puck. Also, they have some NHL mentality that makes them think that you play defense with your stick instead of your skating.

I think gear is more important for the lower levels of play then the upper.

[UnholyGoalie]

It has been my observation that starting to pay hockey in LA is pretty tough. There are very few new players and even at the beginner levels, you are playing against players who have been playing for some time.

Here in the SFV, Valley Skating Center (Iceoplex in Panorama City) has started a beginner league. I played a few games in it until my back gave out. Anyway, it is designed for beginners so if you're interested, contact them (valleyskatingcenter.com). Some of the teams in that league are pretty tough though. While new to "ice" hockey, there are some roller teams that are obviously of a better skill set.

I would just like to reiterate though: Generally speaking, leagues are for competitive play, not learning! You learn in practice, not in a league game. If you are playing ice hockey for the very first time, I recommend you find a pick-up game with friendly players first before you try league play.

[beingbobbyorr]

.... I would just like to reiterate though: Generally speaking, leagues are for competitive play, not learning! You learn in practice, not in a league game. If you are playing ice hockey for the very first time, I recommend you find a pick-up game with friendly players first before you try league play.

http://www.johnbryan.tv/

http://www.socalicehockey.com/

[beingbobbyorr]

.... but I tell the truth. ...

Always a catastrophic mistake.



.... We have not discussed buying sticks at all either....

Given his budget, I think the thread starter is going to have to get an ax, chop down a tree, and start carving.

[boshak]

Hey PM,

Make sure you check out the RBK line over at Hockey Monkey... '07 gear is coming in which means '06 is on closeout deals. Plus, they give an extra "discount" for buying a package which includes shoulder pads, shin guards, and elbow pads.

[boshak]

http://www.hockeymonkey.com/rbk-07-product.html

There's the link for the '07 package deals. They still do pack deals for the '06 stuff but you have to go into the store.

[Clich? Guevara]

Hockey Hawk is also having deals on the 06' RBK stuff, as well as older stuff.
I got a pair (http://www.hockeymonkey.com/rbk-hg5k14insr.html) of RBK Team USA gloves for $28 ($45 on the website). Steal of a price. The gloves are sweeeet.

[borinka99]

just bumping this thread so it doesn't get purged with the rest of the old ones.

[Kubrick]

This thread is gold!

I'm finally going to learn how to ice skate this year and this thread is filled with tons of help.

[Clich? Guevara]

This thread is gold!

I'm finally going to learn how to ice skate this year and this thread is filled with tons of help.

Too bad you're not a local or I'd help you out myself.

[borinka99]

Too bad you're not a local or I'd help you out myself.
You can help me out lol. Where's local?

[Kubrick]

Too bad you're not a local or I'd help you out myself.

Thanks for the offer.

If I ever move back to So. Cal. you're on!

[morminasgirl]

I played Street hockey for the first time friday night
( :hurt: )...and i went out and winged it....I scored 3 goals that night....The best thing to do is get a hold of skating first, learn how to skate forward, backwards. Then use a stick practice Speed and moving the stick around...then maybe try with a puck. Just believe and you can suceed...southpark:

[morminasgirl]

It pretty amazung what you can do...:nhl_check

[Clich? Guevara]

I wish I scored 3 goals in my first game. I left my first game early when I tried to transition backwards and wound up on my ass, hurting my tailbone and whole assmuscle area.

[ianmonsta]

so i figured id ask this question sense i havnt seen it anywhere else in the thread

any tips on stopping, especially during play while say chasing the puck into the corner

i got back on the ice for the first time in at least 10 years and played a pick up game at bay harbor, everything came back pretty quick but i noticed that from the 10 years of playing roller and no ice i picked up alot of bad habits when it comes to stopping

[silentbutdeadly]

I just went ice skating Saturday down in Escondido, and I am also considering buying my own skates. Does anyone know of any good places to go buy some in the San Diego area? I want new, not used and I was wondering if they have hockey skates for women or you just have to buy a small size? When I go skate I use a size 6 hockey skate. I always have to ask for hockey skates or they just hand me figure skates. I can skate foward ok and a little bit backwards, but the one thing I cannot do for the life of me is stop. Also for some reason my right foot always kills me. I wonder if its bc its my weaker foot, or if I favor it more i dont know... but at IceOPlex they are offering classes at 11 dollars an hour, once a week and im really thinking about doing it. Cause those little 8 year olds that skate better than me really piss me off!!

[HOCKEYAHOLIC]

I just went ice skating Saturday down in Escondido, and I am also considering buying my own skates. Does anyone know of any good places to go buy some in the San Diego area? I want new, not used and I was wondering if they have hockey skates for women or you just have to buy a small size? When I go skate I use a size 6 hockey skate. I always have to ask for hockey skates or they just hand me figure skates. I can skate foward ok and a little bit backwards, but the one thing I cannot do for the life of me is stop. Also for some reason my right foot always kills me. I wonder if its bc its my weaker foot, or if I favor it more i dont know... but at IceOPlex they are offering classes at 11 dollars an hour, once a week and im really thinking about doing it. Cause those little 8 year olds that skate better than me really piss me off!!

There are several places online to buy skates at a better price. If you can find a place there to get the right size then order from Greatskate.com or Hockeygiant.com always have weekly specials of clearance items.

I suggest take the class. 11 bucks is nothing if you really want to learn.

[SirJW]

There are several places online to buy skates at a better price. If you can find a place there to get the right size then order from Greatskate.com or Hockeygiant.com always have weekly specials of clearance items.

I suggest take the class. 11 bucks is nothing if you really want to learn.

No no no. Don't buy online your first time. You need to try them on and get a good fit and service if you need adjustments at a later date. You should be able to find a decent pair for around $150 for your first pair...

[ianmonsta]

Personally, I buy gear from Vic at the Skating Edge. He is a wonderful guy who seems to give me a discount on everything I buy. Plus you can ask him about playing in the NHL. He is a really nice guy.

Vic may just like me because I showed him how to find NHL games on the internet lol. Ask him about chasing Bobby Orr :)


Vic was my coach at one point and i grew up playing with his son, Vic is a standup guy.

I just started playing pick up on monday nights at the skating edge (or bay harbor as i have always referred to it)

[silentbutdeadly]

No no no. Don't buy online your first time. You need to try them on and get a good fit and service if you need adjustments at a later date. You should be able to find a decent pair for around $150 for your first pair...

That sounds reasonable, there are a couple of stores in SD that im going to check out, are there any kind of skates that I should just completely stay away from? Any bad experiences or anything? Once I get some skates its off to lessons for me.

[Clich? Guevara]

are there any kind of skates that I should just completely stay away from? Any bad experiences or anything?


Your feet will tell you that... Think "comfort first".
Blades can always be replaced.

[HOCKEYAHOLIC]

No no no. Don't buy online your first time. You need to try them on and get a good fit and service if you need adjustments at a later date. You should be able to find a decent pair for around $150 for your first pair...

I said try them on somewhere near you first then buy online but I guess you're right, it doesn't mean they'll have the same fit as the ones you tried on.

I got a pair of CCM 652 Tacks @ Encore sport on Ventura, maybe called something different now, but got em for $99 and paid 30 bucks to have them heat molded to my feet. With torn Lig's in both ankles that made such a difference.

[beingbobbyorr]

so i figured id ask this question sense i havnt seen it anywhere else in the thread

any tips on stopping, especially during play while say chasing the puck into the corner

i got back on the ice for the first time in at least 10 years and played a pick up game at bay harbor, everything came back pretty quick but i noticed that from the 10 years of playing roller and no ice i picked up alot of bad habits when it comes to stopping

The best thing to do is hire a coach to work with you at sticktime (or even a figure skating coach to work with you at public skates). You may not have to hire them for long periods of time, hopefully only 2 or 3 sessions since they're only tweaking the stopping skills of a player who already knows how to skate.

Somebody who knows what they're doing has to watch you to figure out your flaws, and you have to be able to watch them demonstrate it right. It's tempting to wish and hope that someone can type words on a message board that illustrate what you're doing wrong in your skating/stopping, but I don't think it can be done right that way (also why books on skating are futile).

Coaches typically run $60-$100/hour (group sessions are substantially less), but you knew this was an expensive sport when you started, right?

What rink(s) are closest to your home / work?

[ianmonsta]

The best thing to do is hire a coach to work with you at sticktime (or even a figure skating coach to work with you at public skates). You may not have to hire them for long periods of time, hopefully only 2 or 3 sessions since they're only tweaking the stopping skills of a player who already knows how to skate.

Somebody who knows what they're doing has to watch you to figure out your flaws, and you have to be able to watch them demonstrate it right. It's tempting to wish and hope that someone can type words on a message board that illustrate what you're doing wrong in your skating/stopping, but I don't think it can be done right that way (also why books on skating are futile).

Coaches typically run $60-$100/hour (group sessions are substantially less), but you knew this was an expensive sport when you started, right?

What rink(s) are closest to your home / work?

thanks i was already debating on some lessons if that part doesnt come back to me as easily in the next few sessions i skate.
i live in the south bay so im close to TSC, Bay Harber & Ice Chalet in PV

[Defgarden]

Alright, you guys have motivated me to try and learn to ice skate. I'm going to call a few places and get some more info. I'm moving to Fountain Valley next week or so. Does anyone in the area go to public skates or do lessons during the week? I don't really get home until 6:30 or so during the week so I can't make anything before 7pm usually. Just curious.

[Rocket]

There have been some excellent things passed along on this thread.

A few of my comments.

If you are going to learn to skate I suggest that you set yourself up to skate REGULARLY. There aren't any substitutes for regular ice time. Ideally you could grab one stick time/pick up game and one skating session per week.

Yes getting instruction on what to do right (aka don't start out with bad habits) is a fantastic idea. I am a student of Laura Stamm's so I'd advise getting her books and the video. This is particularly useful to read before you get skating session time. That's where you can experiment on your own time and begin to incorporate things you learn. MANY of the simple drills I can usually only focus on at skating session time can really improve your skating ability. They can make a huge difference on my lower body strength and the results of my skating.

As you improve it might be good to find out when some of the Bantam or Midget teams practice and get a close-up look at what they are doing.

[Defgarden]

Finally got around to going to Westminster Ice today. Had a blast, but boy were my feet cramped as hell in those rental skates. I decided I'm probably going to sign up for lessons as soon as I buy some of my own skates. I'm a little flat-footed, and I've heard it can cause foot cramping without proper skates.

Anyone here skate there? I'm probably going to sign up for beginning adult classes on Saturday mornings.

[borinka99]

Anyone here skate there? I'm probably going to sign up for beginning adult classes on Saturday mornings.

I've been "meaning" to sign up for a class there for the past year or so.

[WingHater]

Finally got around to going to Westminster Ice today. Had a blast, but boy were my feet cramped as hell in those rental skates. I decided I'm probably going to sign up for lessons as soon as I buy some of my own skates. I'm a little flat-footed, and I've heard it can cause foot cramping without proper skates.

Anyone here skate there? I'm probably going to sign up for beginning adult classes on Saturday mornings.


Have you signed up yet? Let me know what class & I'll join you if I can.

[Kopitar11Fan]

i have played roller hockey for 13 years and the reason i never tried ice is because the closest ice rink is over 2 hours away.

i recently moved to Northridge for school and really want to learn to ice skate so I can start playing some ice hockey.

One question I have is this. In roller hockey, we wear pants, but I know in ice, obviously they where the big socks and shorts. It is really necessary to switch to the shorts and socks for ice? Or i could I stick with the pants while I am still learning to skate?

[SWBKings]

This is a wonderfully useful thread!

I'm buying my first pair of skates this weekend. My goal is to be in a beginner league come June/July. I've never played in my life, and I can understand Chinese better than I can skate.

I'll try to keep you posted on my progress. And i'll check back for any further skating/learning tips.

[SirJW]

i have played roller hockey for 13 years and the reason i never tried ice is because the closest ice rink is over 2 hours away.

i recently moved to Northridge for school and really want to learn to ice skate so I can start playing some ice hockey.

One question I have is this. In roller hockey, we wear pants, but I know in ice, obviously they where the big socks and shorts. It is really necessary to switch to the shorts and socks for ice? Or i could I stick with the pants while I am still learning to skate?


You can start out w/ your roller pants for sure but you'll eventually want to make the switch, some leagues wont allow them...

[Kopitar11Fan]

I skated for the first time today on my new skates. It was awesome, and having ur own skates is like a kajillion times better than rental skates, makes a huge difference.

[yipperzz]

i just wanted to post here with some info... since i read this a few posts up.

most companies are now going towards a MAP (minimum advertised price) and this should make the prices at your LHS (local hockey shop) and online store the same now.

so now you have no excuse to buy online unless you live hours away from a shop. different models fit different feet and if you want to learn how to skate, you NEED to try the skates on in a shop first to make sure they fit right and are comfortable. the wrong type of skate will not help if you're trying to learn how to skate and can cause foot issues later down the road.

[Juniordog]

I'm in the process of doing this same exact thing actually. Went down to Hockey Giant and got a pair of mission inlines and skated 2-3 times a week for about a month.

then i started doing the public skate session at my local ice rink (valencia) once a week. i bought my own ice-skates after the 2nd time. ive been doing that for just over a month now. im going to be signing up for a beginning skate class this wednesday and hopefully ill be able to jump into an ultra beginner league after i take 2-3 10 week classes.

any tips or pointers??

[mudfisher]

Keep knee's bent but stand up while skating.

[WingHater]

Keep your head up. Literally

[Juniordog]

yea, i learned to keep my knees bent while skating inline. i've always heard the "keep your head up " thing over the years so ive tried to remember that.

[Juniordog]

skating backwards and stopping seem to be what's going to give me the most trouble. im assuming this is normal for anyone. turning backward while moving is something im not even gonna consider till ive got some gear on haha

[Lososaurus]

One question I had on ice skates was whether or not it's normal for your foot to slip out from under you as you're pushing off? I went ice skating a while back and granted they were rental skates, but whenever I'd push off, the foot I was pushing with would slip out from under me.

[Juniordog]

It's the dull rentals. Once i got my skates that stopped happening to me

[girl4kings]

I have a very hard time skating backwards. But then I realized I was holding both of my hands on the stick. I still need to work on that and my skating in general.

[Lososaurus]

I tried ice skating today and got my ass kicked. It felt like I never had a very good connection with the ice, maybe it's bad habits or style learned from inline that just doesn't work on ice...

Ice skating is nothing like inline!!!

[Chartrand]

This thread is indeed Gold. I'm curious to see how it turned out for PM (where'd he go?).

I used to play a little pond hockey between the ages of 9-10, but not advanced by any means. Since then I was only on skates once...and that was when I was about 12-ish.

I'm 23 now and I tried out a public skate last night. Different physiology now that I'm ten years older, and it was far more awkward than I was expecting at first, but by the end I felt quite a bit better. I'm hoping to make this a ritual for me, as not playing organized hockey is probably my biggest regret.

I've been on the lookout for a pair of skates, maybe a pair of NBH Vapor IX's or something. Not overly expensive but not a crap brand. I'm guessing that the experience will be much more enjoyable with my own new gear. Thinking about getting pads as well. As a skier, I know that falling is an integral part of the learning process, and I don't feel nearly as rugged as I used to.

I did the Sunday evening skate and the ice was pretty crowded. I'll probably try the 11:00 weekday skates and hope I'll have more ice to myself without the kamikaze kids and their laissez-faire parents. Unfortunately it was a counterclockwise flow for both hours of the session and there were far too many people to find a quiet spot to mix it up.

[Watti]

I've been on the lookout for a pair of skates, maybe a pair of NBH Vapor IX's or something. Not overly expensive but not a crap brand.

I picked up a pair of Vapor IXs a little less than a year ago and they're awesome. Only $70 or so and they fit perfectly right out of the box, no discomfort or breaking in period at all. They're durable, too. I took a slapshot to the ankle and while I could hardly walk for a couple days afterwards, if I were on other skates in the same price range no doubt I would have broken my ankle. There's hardly a mark on the skate itself where the puck hit.

Oh, and they look cool too, just like the XXXXs (your Be a Pro character in NHL 09 can wear them, too) :good:


I'm guessing that the experience will be much more enjoyable with my own new gear. Thinking about getting pads as well. As a skier, I know that falling is an integral part of the learning process, and I don't feel nearly as rugged as I used to.

I'd tried to go the used gear route, too. Trust me, it's much better with your own gear. No matter what, your gear is going to smell. But at least if you buy it new, you know who's smell it is.

While piecing together your equipment, get your skating down at a couple public skates, then get in on a few sticktimes and we'll see you at the next LGK Ice Game :)

[ben dover]

I'm in the process of doing this same exact thing actually. Went down to Hockey Giant and got a pair of mission inlines and skated 2-3 times a week for about a month.

then i started doing the public skate session at my local ice rink (valencia) once a week. i bought my own ice-skates after the 2nd time. ive been doing that for just over a month now. im going to be signing up for a beginning skate class this wednesday and hopefully ill be able to jump into an ultra beginner league after i take 2-3 10 week classes.

any tips or pointers??

What rinks have"ultra beginner" leagues? I know disney has a "d" league but that's to far for me.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Lososaurus]

What rinks have"ultra beginner" leagues? I know disney has a "d" league but that's to far for me.
Posted via Mobile Device

I play pickup with JuniorDog, Zero46 and some guys in SCV. Wide skill range, bunch of older guys having fun playing ice hockey.

Good times.

[Kubrick]

This thread is gold!

I'm finally going to learn how to ice skate this year and this thread is filled with tons of help.

Two years later...

My first skating class is this Friday. I'm stoked.

https://www.thecommerce.es/WebRoot/StoreES2/Shops/ea9394/49EE/FF89/184B/640E/E843/52DF/A378/F61A/pat_00ED_n_0020_ccm_0020_vector_0020_03_0020_hielo .jpg
Picked these up from Hockey Giant a while ago.

[borinka99]

Two years later...

My first skating class is this Friday. I'm stoked.

https://www.thecommerce.es/WebRoot/StoreES2/Shops/ea9394/49EE/FF89/184B/640E/E843/52DF/A378/F61A/pat_00ED_n_0020_ccm_0020_vector_0020_03_0020_hielo .jpg
Picked these up from Hockey Giant a while ago.

Where?

[daxx]

All of you who have issues shaking just need ot go out ans skate a ton. Work on your crossovers and skating backwards first. After you get that down work in reverse crossovers. Then work on puckhandling while doing a crossover forwards and backwards. Skate around the circles, forwards and backwards with crossovers for the entire length of the ice. Then do it with a puck after you have confidence in the drill.

Get the basics down and skate like hell. That is the only way you will get better. Don't just play pickup. You will develop bad habits. Every time you play pickup, you should be doing at least one sticktime.
There is no substitute for this development if you want to skate well.

[Leatherface]

Daxx giving skating advice.

awesome!

and now, some dancing milk
:dancing_milk:

[Chartrand]

All of you who have issues shaking just need ot go out ans skate a ton.

http://www.babble.com/CS/blogs/famecrawler/2009/04/michael_j_fox_show.jpg

"So there's a cure, you say?"





































Okay....that was low, even for me. I'm ready for my punishment.

[lunchbox]

http://www.babble.com/CS/blogs/famecrawler/2009/04/michael_j_fox_show.jpg

"So there's a cure, you say?"

Okay....that was low, even for me. I'm ready for my punishment.

http://www.lakewoodconferences.com/direct/dbimage/50234103/SM_Sexy_Whip.jpg

[Chartrand]

http://www.lakewoodconferences.com/direct/dbimage/50234103/SM_Sexy_Whip.jpg

I've been a bad boy.

[Kubrick]

Where?

Ice Skating at Valley Ice Center (http://www.valleyicecenter.com/)

[Mr. Irreverent]

All of you who have issues shaking just need ot go out ans skate a ton. Work on your crossovers and skating backwards first. After you get that down work in reverse crossovers. Then work on puckhandling while doing a crossover forwards and backwards. Skate around the circles, forwards and backwards with crossovers for the entire length of the ice. Then do it with a puck after you have confidence in the drill.

Get the basics down and skate like hell. That is the only way you will get better. Don't just play pickup. You will develop bad habits. Every time you play pickup, you should be doing at least one sticktime.
There is no substitute for this development if you want to skate well.

Perfect advice. I did stick time on Wednesday here at TSc and I've improved a great deal. I also did public skate this morning and I felt really good. Remember to keep your weight on the ball of your foot when doing crossovers and to lean forward with your knees bent.

skating around the circles is the best drill for speedy development. right now I'm stuck doing backwards crossovers. Very tough.

[daxx]

Daxx giving skating advice.

awesome!

and now, some dancing milk
:dancing_milk:

Hey Leather-boy...

1) Go f--- yourself!
2) Is the advice I'm giving incorrect? Nope
3) Go f--- yourself!

Just giving you crap.

If we come up with a LGK game are you going to play, or just say you will/won't 437 times?

[mudfisher]

Who's leatherFace? Who is this person..Should I know who this guy is?

[Leatherface]

If we come up with a LGK game are you going to play, or just say you will/won't 437 times?

haha! yes, in the Fall. I promise I'll be back.

[Defgarden]

Backwards xovers are really tough right now for me. Forwards I'm decent at them. I can skate backwards without falling, but I'm not great by any means. Weeeeeee!

[seabass45]

This thread has a lot of info, hopefully its still valid.

Im 34 and I'm gonna start playing hockey. Better late than never, right?

[tullskull]

I would like to give some advice as well to all the great comments that have been made on here. I have had four kids play and I didn't learn to skate until my 40's.
Just to survive financially I had to become an expert on gear and also learn cost effective ways to improve.

My first comment is basically a moral argument to support your local dealer. I was an audio dealer for many years and experienced similar situations to this often. So I say that for someone to go to a hockey shop to try on skates with the notion that you will buy them elsewhere at a discount is fine unless you are asking for help or advice from the personnel. That is stealing. Sorry just had to get that off my chest. Deceitfully using the hockey shop's wisdom and experience costs them and you will be very sorry to lose that resource for help when you really need it.

You need proper instruction. You need examples of people correctly executing the strides and moves. You are not going to get this without lessons... unless you are willing to become a student. That means studying...Duh!

So instructional tapes, (Robbie Glantz, Laura Stamm) websites that concentrate on coaching, and careful observation will go a long way to help.

Why would I say this?............................................. ............

We have all heard the saying "practice make perfect". Well nothing could be more wrong than the thinking behind that saying. "If I just practice enough I will greatly improve."

NO. NO. NO!!!

"practice only makes permanent!"


Only perfect practice will make perfect. Most of us who started out as adults trying to skate went out there and basically tried to become as comfortable as possible with all these new feelings of skating. I would describe it as the principle of the path of least resistance. The problem is as many have stated , that path will lead you will pick up many bad habits.

I my case I had to relearn how to skate on parking lots, and stick times and free skates and in front of mirrors and I put a lot of time into it. This was roller but the same holds for ice. You need to know in your mind what a good stride looks like and copy that in spite of how it feels. The feeling will follow in time.

I can tell you this works as in my fourth season playing in a roller league I was the top scorer (mostly assists) and it was after about a year of skating. I could do all my transitions on both sides with and without the puck because that is what I practiced. Same with stick-handling. Practice correctly and go s-l-o-w. All my problems had to do with impatience and trying to fake it enough to be able to play but when I played I didn't have much fun because I couldn't actually do much and thus didn't help the team much. So I had to relearn many things.

Gear is another story but I am sure I have already tested your patience enough. Simply what is right for you is what is right. If you feel good in the best gear, save up or find last years' best. Believe me everything is a compromise. I can confidently say that middle of the road gear now is as good or better than top of the line stuff less than ten years ago, but it doesn't last the same.

Hope some of this will be helpful.

[motalare]

A number of years ago I took my wife to a sticktime, and had her videotape me practicing. While watching later, I picked out so many flaws, that it was at first really disheartening, but ultimately helped quite a bit.

[Anjin-san]

Even though this thread was last responded to almost two years ago, i'll put in my story :)

I played mostly roller hockey until about 12 years ago when I hurt my back. I'm 43 now and have decided to start playing again.

I went to a public skate this past weekend and for the 1st 10 min it felt alien to me and actually made me wonder if buying new skates was a smart thing to do. After awhile it started slowly coming back to me but I was still a little tentative to try anything like a crossover or hockey stop.

I'm going to stick and puck this afternoon just to get a feel for the gear and try to gain some sort of comfort level on the ice. One of the benefits of where I live in Colorado is I have 3 rinks within 15 min of my house so I have the opportunity to get ice time every day which i'm going to try to take advantage of.

[Peggy_GKG]

So it's been two years since the last post in this thread, I guess that means it's time for a new one!

At the ripe young age of 41, I've decided to become a hockey player. The first step in this journey for me has been learning to skate. I have literally zero experience prior to a couple months ago, not even roller blading. The first thing I did was to just get on the ice...I live in Anaheim so I started going to KHS since they have public skate sessions on weekend for $5, can't beat it. After about a month I was able to get up and down the ice OK without falling. I bought a cheap pair of skates to get me started...some Bauer Nexus 100's for $45 at Hockey Giant, figured they would be good to at least start learning on.

I've also been taking "Learn-To-Skate" classes at the Anaheim Rinks. These are kind of iffy, basically it's a 30-minute group session once a week and then the rest of the time is public skate where you're supposed to practice what you've just learned. Usually it's too crowded to do any real practice though. Had I known I might have started with the Adult Beginner class, as it is I went for the Hockey Class which is slightly more advanced. Basic stopping, turning, cross-overs, backwards skating, etc. 5 weeks in and I'm still getting my hockey legs but the progress is there.

And, although it's purely visual I do think there are some good videos out there, the "How To Hockey" channel on youtube has really given me some good info on stopping when I was having trouble with that.

The in-person coaching of course is very valuable even though there's not a lot of time for 1-on-1 instruction. I'm very anxious to get my skill level up and actually be able to use it but it's a slow process and I know I'm nowhere near ready yet. I watched a few minutes of a rookie league game the other night and while the skill level varied there were definitely some skaters who were less than graceful.

Anyway not sure if anyone will read or give a crap but figured I'd add a little something. There definitely seems to be a lot of resources available out there for people of all ages and skill which is nice to see. I guess we'll see how it goes and maybe before too long I'll be posting in the Beer League thread...

[jammer06]

So it's been two years since the last post in this thread, I guess that means it's time for a new one!

At the ripe young age of 41, I've decided to become a hockey player. The first step in this journey for me has been learning to skate. I have literally zero experience prior to a couple months ago, not even roller blading. The first thing I did was to just get on the ice...I live in Anaheim so I started going to KHS since they have public skate sessions on weekend for $5, can't beat it. After about a month I was able to get up and down the ice OK without falling. I bought a cheap pair of skates to get me started...some Bauer Nexus 100's for $45 at Hockey Giant, figured they would be good to at least start learning on.

I've also been taking "Learn-To-Skate" classes at the Anaheim Rinks. These are kind of iffy, basically it's a 30-minute group session once a week and then the rest of the time is public skate where you're supposed to practice what you've just learned. Usually it's too crowded to do any real practice though. Had I known I might have started with the Adult Beginner class, as it is I went for the Hockey Class which is slightly more advanced. Basic stopping, turning, cross-overs, backwards skating, etc. 5 weeks in and I'm still getting my hockey legs but the progress is there.

And, although it's purely visual I do think there are some good videos out there, the "How To Hockey" channel on youtube has really given me some good info on stopping when I was having trouble with that.

The in-person coaching of course is very valuable even though there's not a lot of time for 1-on-1 instruction. I'm very anxious to get my skill level up and actually be able to use it but it's a slow process and I know I'm nowhere near ready yet. I watched a few minutes of a rookie league game the other night and while the skill level varied there were definitely some skaters who were less than graceful.

Anyway not sure if anyone will read or give a crap but figured I'd add a little something. There definitely seems to be a lot of resources available out there for people of all ages and skill which is nice to see. I guess we'll see how it goes and maybe before too long I'll be posting in the Beer League thread...

AWESOME! The more ice time you can get the better and I wish you good journey, its worth it.

[Peggy_GKG]

Thanks. I'm certainly enjoying being on the ice when I can, even though it can be frustrating at times.

[Peggy_GKG]

So last night was the "evaluation" to see if we could move on to the stick-handling class. I'm not ready yet (most of the class isn't), so I have to take the skate class over again. I've got some good basic fundamentals but definitely need to work on a lot, specifically backwards skating and stopping then switching directions.

Sucks that I can't move on, and I'm definitely anxious to actually start playing some semblance of hockey, but I also realize that everything will be better and ultimately I'll get more enjoyment out of the whole process if I actually know what I'm doing on skates first. Looks like I won't even be able to get into a rookie league until Spring 2016 now. That's discouraging, but if it were easy then it wouldn't be worth doing, right?

[beedee]

Thats crazyness, but I can sort of understand their reasoning of building the skating foundation first. I highly recommend going to do "stick times" at rinks and you can skate with pucks all you want, ability level there doesn't matter.

[Nyssa42]

^^^what beedee said...keep going, Peggy!! you can do it! but it is good to have the solid skating foundation, because it is a million times harder when you get the stick in your hand. I figure skated my whole life, started playing hockey at 28, and it was the hardest thing I had ever done, even with the solid skating skills (although had to make some transitions from figure skating, too....I probably still skate wrong as I never actually took a hockey skating class).

[Peggy_GKG]

Thats crazyness, but I can sort of understand their reasoning of building the skating foundation first. I highly recommend going to do "stick times" at rinks and you can skate with pucks all you want, ability level there doesn't matter.

Yeah I'm definitely going to start doing this. I've been slowly acquiring gear little by little, now I have a hockey bag full of equipment and I'll be damned if it's going to sit there unused for a year. Plus I think it will be good just to get the feel of skating with everything on.

[jammer06]

I third the stick times, I think it's imperative to have a taste of the fun as a reward for all the hard work you're doing now. Keep it up!

[Peggy_GKG]

^^^what beedee said...keep going, Peggy!! you can do it! but it is good to have the solid skating foundation, because it is a million times harder when you get the stick in your hand. I figure skated my whole life, started playing hockey at 28, and it was the hardest thing I had ever done, even with the solid skating skills (although had to make some transitions from figure skating, too....I probably still skate wrong as I never actually took a hockey skating class).

I'm not giving up!! Coach basically said if you have to think about making turns, stopping, crossing over, transitioning, etc with a stick in your hand, it's not going to go well. Which makes sense. I'd rather be excellent at skating than jump into stickhandling-playing and have people staking circles around me, ya know?

Just gotta keep grinding...

[jammer06]

I'm not giving up!! Coach basically said if you have to think about making turns, stopping, crossing over, transitioning, etc with a stick in your hand, it's not going to go well. Which makes sense. I'd rather be excellent at skating than jump into stickhandling-playing and have people staking circles around me, ya know?

Just gotta keep grinding...


Nyssa makes a good point though, skating with a stick in your hand is entirely different than without. Be sure you get used to it cause your balance will be all over the place.

[Peggy_GKG]

Nyssa makes a good point though, skating with a stick in your hand is entirely different than without. Be sure you get used to it cause your balance will be all over the place.

I think you guys are all making good points and I appreciate being able to talk about what a n00b I am and get some realistic, usable advice from everyone.

[WingHater]

I think you guys are all making good points and I appreciate being able to talk about what a n00b I am and get some realistic, usable advice from everyone.

Tried to send you a PM but your inbox is full. What day of the week is your class? Looking for the exact same type of class as I would be a 40 year old beginner.

[Peggy_GKG]

Tried to send you a PM but your inbox is full. What day of the week is your class? Looking for the exact same type of class as I would be a 40 year old beginner.

PM sent.

In unrelated news, last night was some kind of publicity event for the Ducks. Place was over run with Quacks, and they dyed the ice orange. I wanted to vomit profusely, everywhere.

[beedee]

Nyssa makes a good point though, skating with a stick in your hand is entirely different than without. Be sure you get used to it cause your balance will be all over the place.

I am in a similar boat, I will be experiencing that Monday night with my first skate as a goalie!!! I am going public skating this Sunday to start the break-in process for my new goalie skates.

[Peggy_GKG]

I am in a similar boat, I will be experiencing that Monday night with my first skate as a goalie!!! I am going public skating this Sunday to start the break-in process for my new goalie skates.

Could probably bring this up in your goalie thread, but since you're here...

How long have you been skating before deciding to play goalie?
Are you currently in, or planning to join a league as goalie, or just playing pickup?
In your experience is there a shortage of goalies? What made you decide to make the switch?

[Peggy_GKG]

So who was at the 3:10 stick time at KHS this past Saturday? I know there were some LGKers there...HAD to be.

[beedee]

Could probably bring this up in your goalie thread, but since you're here...

How long have you been skating before deciding to play goalie?

I started playing ice hockey when I was 14, played Bantams (15years old) through Juniors (20years old). Then played beer league off and on for last 15 years or so.



Are you currently in, or planning to join a league as goalie, or just playing pickup?

The plan is to join a league for sure (most likely start off in rookie). Pick-up is fun, but from playing it as a skater, most every just tries to deke the goalies. I can see that getting very old now that I have played goalie a couple times. Sure it is great practice, but I'd rather do clinics with drills and then the scrimmage at the end over pick-up.


In your experience is there a shortage of goalies? What made you decide to make the switch?

It does seem like many times people are scrambling to find a goalie because theirs couldn't make it to the game. Countless times after our game a player who has a game after ours has poked his head in asking if our goalie wants to play for them.

The switch, well I have always wanted to play goalie on ice. I was taking a break from beer league this season and my wife casually said, you should play goalie, there will be no shortage of ice time. What she meant by that was that I would complain to her about getting dicked over during our games regarding ice time. If we had a full roster (13-14 players) the wingers would get screwed over. Meaning, we always had 4 defensemen no matter what, we always had 2 centers no matter what. The wingers were left to rotate through themselves which led to getting to skate every third shift or so....which got old, QUICKLY!!! Many times we would rotate someone through the line in the first period, then they would go to the next line in the second period, then back for the third period. It got messy that way too, and if someone took a penalty, forget about it, it was bedlam. So in a nutshell, that is what prompted me to make the switch sooner than later, as I'm not getting any younger.

[beedee]

So who was at the 3:10 stick time at KHS this past Saturday? I know there were some LGKers there...HAD to be.

I was at the Lakewood one this past Saturday. Does KHS have an online schedule of stick times?

[jammer06]

The switch, well I have always wanted to play goalie on ice. I was taking a break from beer league this season and my wife casually said, you should play goalie, there will be no shortage of ice time. What she meant by that was that I would complain to her about getting dicked over during our games regarding ice time. If we had a full roster (13-14 players) the wingers would get screwed over. Meaning, we always had 4 defensemen no matter what, we always had 2 centers no matter what. The wingers were left to rotate through themselves which led to getting to skate every third shift or so....which got old, QUICKLY!!! Many times we would rotate someone through the line in the first period, then they would go to the next line in the second period, then back for the third period. It got messy that way too, and if someone took a penalty, forget about it, it was bedlam. So in a nutshell, that is what prompted me to make the switch sooner than later, as I'm not getting any younger.

Yet you don't make the move to D

[Peggy_GKG]

I was at the Lakewood one this past Saturday. Does KHS have an online schedule of stick times?

KHS usually has several stick times during the day, and some of them are actually outside of normal working hours. I don't really understand the weekday noon and 2:00 pm sticktimes, as who can make those?! But I guess the later hours are filled up with games and clinics.

Here's the link to the KHS schedule, and looking at it, I see a clinic titled "THE COMPLETE HOCKEY GOALTENDER" which is definitely something I've never seen there before. Could be right up your alley. Also, that clinic that I posted about in the other thread (adult hockey clinic), says goalies are free!

http://www.khsice.com/#!facility-schedule-/cle6

Appreciate your responses to my other questions. I think I've always had the "goalie mentality", played goalie in soccer as a kid, always wanted to play safety in football even though I never did. We had a floor hockey tourney in college that I played goalie in but wasn't particularly good (might have had something to do with having to use pillows as leg pads and the cutout from a case of beer as a blocker). But it's definitely something I think I'd like to pursue once I get a little better (and hopefully a lot more flexible). I've seen stories about guys in their 50's and 60's deciding to start playing goalie, granted those are probably rare cases, but I figure why not?!

[Peggy_GKG]

Yet you don't make the move to D
As far as league teams, my hunch is that forwards are generally the better skaters and more skilled than defensemen (or defense-persons, since we're co-ed here!) Is this correct? In my learning of skating I'm getting better at going backwards but it's still a bit of a challenge as I have a hard time keeping momentum and seem to come to a stop after a few strides. I'm sure that's something I can improve on with a bit of work but I'm guessing that's a major emphasis when playing D.

Sound about right?

[jammer06]

As far as league teams, my hunch is that forwards are generally the better skaters and more skilled than defensemen (or defense-persons, since we're co-ed here!) Is this correct? In my learning of skating I'm getting better at going backwards but it's still a bit of a challenge as I have a hard time keeping momentum and seem to come to a stop after a few strides. I'm sure that's something I can improve on with a bit of work but I'm guessing that's a major emphasis when playing D.

Sound about right?

At the lower levels the best players are most likely D-men and centers. If you're on a team that puts all their crappiest players in the back you're gonna have a bad time.

Usually if a guy is playing below his level he'll probably line up at D since it's no fun for anyone when a guy goes out and scores 5 goals by himself.

Wing is generally considered the easiest position and least liable position on a team. It's also great fun since it's about 80% offense at the bottom end.

Higher levels everyone plays their positions correctly and there's loads of fun for everyone because passes go everywhere and it's not a 1-2 man show.

[Peggy_GKG]

At the lower levels the best players are most likely D-men and centers. If you're on a team that puts all their crappiest players in the back you're gonna have a bad time.

Usually if a guy is playing below his level he'll probably line up at D since it's no fun for anyone when a guy goes out and scores 5 goals by himself.

Wing is generally considered the easiest position and least liable position on a team. It's also great fun since it's about 80% offense at the bottom end.

Higher levels everyone plays their positions correctly and there's loads of fun for everyone because passes go everywhere and it's not a 1-2 man show.

http://cdn.meme.am/instances/500x/61496974.jpg

[beedee]

Yet you don't make the move to D

I thought about it, but the D on that team have been there since before I joined the team. :2smile:

[beedee]

Man, thanks for that KHS link! Its a bummer the COMPLETE GOALTENDER starts at 6:10pm, as I work until 6, in Irvine. It would be too hard to leave here at 5 to get over to Anaheim, geared up by 6:10. :(

[jammer06]

I thought about it, but the D on that team have been there since before I joined the team. :2smile:

Its one of the few perks of playing D on a team. Nobody wants to volunteer, but we get all the ice.