![]() When they reach the point where if they fall anymore, then they may fall to the ground, we will then cross the right foot over the left and push off of the right foot. ![]() For example, if we want to go left, we will have them lean to the left and actually shift their weight to the outside of their left foot. In our crossover acceleration drills, we are incorporating a body lean to the side that we want to go. I've noticed that the further our players lean, the better the drill is for them. In our acceleration drills, this is very similar to the lean fall and run where we coach our athletes to be tall, lean, fall, and run straight. As a result, we are now incorporating a crossover step to the beginning of our sprints on lateral movement/speed days.įrom a coaching and technical aspect and what's important to note is that when the crossover is taught on the ice, one of the most important aspects is the ability to shift your weight and lean in the direction you want to go. I now think it would be more beneficial to add crossover movements into our lateral speed program. Now, since I have been exposed to the importance of the crossover step and observing our guys and their frequent use of the crossover in games and practices, I have changed my thought process. Drills such as 1-knee side starts, shuffles, 1-2 cuts, and pro-agility drills have always been part of our lateral speed program. For our lateral speed progressions, we have always performed drills where we push off the outside of our foot to create enough force to push off the ground and go in the other direction. Since hockey is a multi-directional sport, we've always done acceleration drills to improve both linear and lateral speed. ![]() Drills such as lean fall runs, ball drops, and push up starts to sprints, have always been part of our linear speed program and will continue to be. As a result, in our off-season program, we have always done acceleration drills where we emphasized the first 2-3 steps instead of running longer sprints. The first 2-3 steps are more important than the ability to skate at top speed- which rarely happens in a hockey game. ![]() In hockey, the ability to accelerate is something every player should look to improve. Since it is such an important aspect of the game, I felt it was important to develop some progressions and strategies to help us improve in this area. Many times I have heard our players refer to “blasting off” when referring to the crossover. It is a movement that is necessary for turning, stopping, and changing direction. The crossover step in hockey is an important component of skating for any hockey player at any level. Video of the Week- Incorporating The Crossover Step In Speed Training For Hockey Sean Skahan ![]()
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