The ability to stop on command is crucial for both safety and technique when ice skating. Stopping allows you to avoid collisions, control your speed, and execute turns and other maneuvers. Mastering different stopping techniques will improve your overall skating skills.
This article will cover basic stopping methods for beginners, more advanced techniques like the hockey stop, tips for stopping when skating fast, how to teach kids to stop, and off-ice exercises to help improve stopping ability.
Proper stopping technique takes time and practice to develop, but this guide will help you understand the various methods and progress in your ice skating stopping skills.
1. How to Stop Ice Skating for Beginners
When first learning to ice skate, the focus is on gaining balance and confidence on the slippery surface. Beginners will need to master basic stopping techniques to control their speed and avoid running into obstacles or other skaters. Here are some beginner methods for stopping:
Snow Plow Stop
The snow plow stop, also called a wedge stop, is one of the easiest techniques for beginners. To perform a snow plow stop:
- Keep knees bent and lean slightly forward
- Turn your toes out and angle your heels together to form a wedge shape with your feet
- Apply pressure on the inside edges of the skates to dig them into the ice
- Slowly glide and use the wedge shape to gradually shave off speed
- To come to a complete stop, increase the pressure and width of the wedge
This is a safe and stable way for new skaters to control speed and stop. It provides a wide base of support while slowing down.
One-Foot Glide Stop
Once beginners start gaining balance on one foot, the one-foot glide stop can help gradually slow down and stop. To perform this technique:
- Keep weight on one foot, with this foot under your body
- Lightly glide on this foot while lifting the other foot just off the ice
- To decrease speed, apply pressure onto the edge of the gliding foot
- Slowly set the other foot down to come to a complete stop
This teaches balance on one foot while gradually controlling speed. The one-foot glide allows for a smoother stop compared to the snow plow wedge technique.
Two-Foot Glide Stop
Similar to the one-foot version, this stop uses a smooth gliding motion on both feet to gradually slow down. To execute a two-foot glide stop:
- Keep knees bent with weight balanced evenly on two feet
- Lightly glide on two feet, pressing down slightly to decrease speed
- Slowly increase pressure on the edges of both skates to shave off speed
- To fully stop, press down hard through the feet while maintaining balance
The two-foot glide is great for controlling speed gently without an abrupt or jerky stop. It helps develop steadiness when stopping straight ahead.
These basic techniques provide new skaters with safe and effective options for stopping. While beginner methods are focused on stability over quick stops, they lay the foundations for more advanced techniques down the road. With practice, stopping can become almost second nature.
2. How to Turn When Ice Skating
In addition to stopping, developing the ability to turn while ice skating is important for control. Here are some tips for beginner and advanced turns on the ice:
Beginner Turns
- Keep knees bent and focus weight on the inside edge of the foot you want to turn onto
- Lean your body in the direction of the turn
- Turn your head and shoulders first, then the hips and feet will follow
- Glide through the turn on one foot after shifting weight to the new edge
- Repeat the weight transfer to turn back in the other direction
This teaches new skaters how to link turns together and change direction.
Advanced Turns
- Gain speed before the turn by powerfully pushing off with each stride
- Lean aggressively into the turn and deeply bend the knee of the turning leg
- Dig the new turning edge into the ice using the inner thigh and buttocks muscles
- Swing arms around to generate momentum through the turn
- Accelerate out of the turn by straightening the turning leg and striding diagonally
Advanced skaters can link faster, tighter turns together using crossovers. This involves crossing one foot over the other between turns. Weight shifts from the outside foot to the inside foot with each crossover.
Practicing both types of turns will help improve balance, coordination, and control on the ice.
3. How to Stop When Skating Fast
As skating skill improves, the ability to stop effectively from higher speeds is needed. Hockey and figure skaters must control their speed to perform jumps and tricks. Here are some advanced techniques to stop quickly:
Hockey Stop
This is the fast, abrupt stop popularized by hockey players. To hockey stop:
- Skate at the desired speed leading with one foot
- Rotate the lead foot outward, turning the toes to the side
- Dig the edges of this foot into the ice at an angle
- Transfer weight to this outside edge to slow down and stop quickly
Positioning the stopping foot at an angle allows for maximum friction to slow momentum. This is one of the quickest and most effective ice skating stops.
T-Stop
Similar to the hockey stop, this uses the blade perpendicular to the direction of travel to rapidly shave off speed. To perform a T-stop:
- Glide on one foot and lift the other foot behind with the knee bent
- Turn the back foot so the blade faces perpendicular to the glide direction
- Sit into a low squat position and press the back foot blade hard into the ice
- Keep pressure on the digging edge as it carves out a "T" shape to stop
Executed correctly, the T-stop can provide stability and quick braking power.
Power Slide
This advanced technique combines fast turning with dynamic stopping. To execute a power slide:
- Gain momentum while approaching the stop
- Rotate the lead shoulder in the direction you want to turn
- Bend your knees and lean aggressively into the turn
- Dig in the new edge and kick up some ice with the trailing foot
- Continue the sharp turn to bleed speed and control the slide
Power slides allow experienced skaters to maintain flow from fast stops directly into rapid turns. They are commonly seen in hockey games and high-level figure skating.
Mastering advanced stops takes time, but allows next-level performance. Always build up gradually to higher speeds when learning new techniques.
4. Hockey Stop Instructional Lesson
The hockey stop is a key technique for ice skaters looking to develop quick-stopping ability. Follow these steps to learn:
Gear Needed
- Ice skates
- Helmet
- Padded gloves
- Knee/elbow pads recommended
Rink Setup
- Start in the corner of the rink with boards for stability
- Clear area without obstacles
- Can place small cones to practice stopping at specific points
Learning Progression
- Warm up with easy skating around the rink
- Position skates in a "V" shape and practices digging inside edges into the ice
- Start gliding on one foot, rotate the lead foot outward to the side
- Lightly drag the edges at first, increasing pressure as you progress
- Use the boards for support if needed
- Stop gliding and return the lead foot parallel once you start slowing
- Repeat, turning the lead foot in both directions
- Practice with both feet
- Progress to doing hockey stops without any hand support
- Increase speed before stopping as you get more comfortable
- Practice circling back after stopping to repeat
- Use cones to mimic stopping at blue lines or nets
- Combine hockey stopping with other skating maneuvers
With dedicated practice time, the hockey stop can quickly become second nature. Always ensure proper control before attempting high speeds. Master this versatile technique to elevate your ice skating abilities.
5. How to Teach Kids to Stop on Ice Skates
Here are some tips to help teach kids how to stop when ice skating:
- Start on a beginner rink with barrier supports they can hold onto
- Demonstrate proper stopping technique so they understand the mechanics
- Explain slowing down first before trying full stops
- Try "games" having them stop before reaching you or markers
- Use a snow plow stop at first which is wide and steady
- Make sure their skates have proper ankle support
- Have them bend their knees to the lower center of gravity
- Practice gliding on one foot to increase balance
- Give positive reinforcement when they succeed at stopping
- Consider teaching them to fall safely just in case
- Advance to faster stops like hockey stops or T-stops as skills improve
- Enroll them in lessons to learn in a structured environment
- Make it fun by playing tag and other games that require stopping
The key is being patient, providing support, focusing on control first before speed, and giving them simple, achievable goals. Celebrate the small achievements to keep them confident and advance their skills.
6. General Ice Skating Tips
Here are some additional useful ice skating tips to improve your comfort, safety, and abilities:
Safety Tips
- Wear a helmet, even as an experienced skater
- Check that skate laces are not loose but still allow ankle flexibility
- Avoid overcrowded rinks where crashes are more likely
- Stand up slowly if you fall, using guards to avoid slipping again
- Know your skill limits and don't try risky moves too soon
Clothing Tips
- Dress in thin, breathable layers you can shed once warmed up
- Thermal leggings and athletic tops help regulate temperature
- Choose gloves that allow finger flexibility and grip
- Wear tall socks that protect ankles from abrasion
Equipment Tips
- Get skates professionally sharpened regularly for optimal glide
- Ensure skates properly support ankles and avoid lace bite
- Consider padding like knee/elbow guards for extra protection
- Pick clothing that allows free movement and won't restrict
Technique Tips
- Keep knees bent and center of gravity low for stability
- Maintain posture stacked over hips for balance
- Lean forward slightly when gaining speed
- Extend your arm in the direction you want to turn
- Tighten core muscles and look ahead for confidence
Following these tips will lead to more secure, comfortable, and skillful ice skating.
7. How to Ice Skate Backwards
Skating backward is a challenging but useful skill for hockey and figure skaters. Here are tips to learn:
- Start stationary, turning your toes inward and heels outward
- Lean forward to balance as you would move forward
- Walk backward off the ice to get a feel for the motion
- Focus on using edges to push off straight back
- Progress to gliding backward with both feet
- Turn your head and shoulders in the direction you want to skate
- Use a slight upper body twist to initiate backward stroking
- Practice gliding backward to stops and basic turns
- Enroll in back skating lessons for proper technique
It takes time to get comfortable skating backward. Go slow, have patience, and work on balance and edge control first before trying speed. Mastering this unlocks new possibilities on the ice.
8. How to Teach Kids to Ice Skate
Teaching kids the basics of ice skating can create lifelong skaters. Here are some methods for success:
Safety First
Ensure proper helmets and pads. Support them with skating aids at first. Teach them how to fall safely. Check skates for the correct fit.
Make It Fun
Incorporate games and challenges. Play your favorite songs to skate to. Try skating races and relays. Use props like cones and hula hoops. Provide rewards for achievements.
Focus on Balance
Start on training skates or double-bladed beginner skates if needed. Have them glide on each foot. Practice one-foot squats off-ice to improve strength. Assist them with hands-on support at first.
Build Confidence
Start on beginner rinks with rails. Celebrate small successes. Advance skills slowly. Remind them falling is part of learning. Avoid comparison with other skaters.
Proper Technique
Demonstrate key skills. Explain edging. Keep sessions short to retain focus. Enforce consistent practice for muscle memory. Break skills into components before combining.
The secret is making skating fun rather than frustrating. Investing the time early creates joyful skaters for life.
9. Finding the Best Way to Stop Skating
Determining the ideal stopping method depends on your skating level and goals. Here are key factors in choosing the best way to stop:
Quickness
If you need to stop rapidly from high speeds for hockey or racing, the hockey stop or power slide offers the fastest stopping power.
Stability
For beginning or casual skaters, the wedge snow plow or T-stop allows stable stopping options with a wide base of support.
Smoothness
To gradually bleed speed in figure skating programs, the one-foot or two-foot glide stops provide the most controlled, seamless deceleration.
Power
Advanced techniques like the power slide and hockey stop allow aggressive transfers of energy to carve into the ice for abrupt stops.
Versatility
The hockey stop can be performed both forward and backward, providing versatile utility across ice sports.
Environment
On indoor rinks, blade edges can grip well for fast stops. Outdoors on rough ice, and wedge plows give more control.
Considering these elements will guide you toward the optimal stopping method. Then it just takes practice to master the technique and improve your overall skating.
10. Stopping on Skates for Beginners
As a beginner learning to ice skate, it’s important to start with a safe and effective method to control your speed. Here are some tips:
- Bend knees and keep center of gravity low
- Perform “snow plow” stops by turning toes inward
- Press down on the inside edges of the skates to stop
- Use barrier walls or cones for support if needed
- Try one-foot glides, lifting each foot slightly to shave off speed
- Stopping will be slow at first, don’t get discouraged!
- Focus on balance over speed when learning to stop
- Consider taking group lessons for hands-on instruction
- Widen your stance for more stability as you reduce speed
- Practice falling safely to avoid injury if you lose control
- Upgrade to faster hockey or T-stops as skills improve over time
- Duration and practice are key - don’t expect mastery immediately
Gradually developing solid stopping skills as a beginner skater provides the foundation for versatility and confidence on the ice. Patience and persistence will pay off over time.
11. How to Teach Kids to Skate
Here are some tips for teaching kids how to skate:
Set the Scene
Start them on a beginner rink with rails they can hold. Play fun, upbeat music to skate to. Keep the first lessons short to retain interest. Provide proper safety gear - helmets are essential.
Nail the Basics
Focus first on standing, balancing, and walking on the ice. Bend knees to find their center. Then have them glide on each foot to improve balance. Offer hand support at first if needed.
Make It a Game
Incorporate games to make learning fun. Skate follow the leader. Freeze dance to work edges. See who can glide one-footed the farthest. Offer small rewards for achieving skills milestones.
Break It Down
Demonstrate skills like marching or scooting before full strides. Explain edges. Separate components like pushing out before recovery. Build up proper technique piece by piece.
Stir Up Motivation
Celebrate the small wins. Remind them falling is part of the journey. Focus on individual progress rather than comparison. Schedule consistent practice times so skills become a habit.
Mix It Up
Vary activities to keep it lively. Include off-ice conditioning for strength and balance. Try obstacle courses. Change drills each session to retain interest. Allow free play time too.
Keeping lessons fun, rewarding achievements, and promoting steady practice will build lifelong skating skills. Patience, positive encouragement, and creativity are key.
12. Key Terms for Ice Skating Stops
Depending on where you skate, certain terms are used for different stopping techniques on the ice. Here are some key phrases:
- Snow plow - Turning toes to form a wedge shape and gradually stop
- Hockey stop - Rotating one-foot perpendicular to stop abruptly
- T-stop - Using the back foot perpendicular to stop quickly
- Power slide - Carving the ice in a quick turn to shave speed
- Magic slide - Sitting on the back leg and extending the other to stop
- Wedge stop - Another name for the snow plow technique
- Open hip stop - Rotating the hip outward along with the foot to stop
- Spin stop - Rapidly turning all the way around to stop the momentum
While the basics are similar, terminology differs by region. Having an awareness of the various phrases used for stopping methods allows you to apply the skills confidently anywhere in the world. The next time you skate abroad, you’ll know exactly how to successfully “snow plow” to a stop!
13. How to Slide Stop on Ice Skates
The slide stop is an advanced ice skating stopping technique that allows rapid deceleration through friction between blades and ice. Here is how to perform a slide stop:
Build Speed
Approach the stop with the momentum gained by powerful strides. Focus on driving from your hips.
Transition Edges
Progressively shift weight from the outside edge to the inside edge of the lead foot to initiate the stop.
Sit Back
Drop into a low, athletic stance with your body weight shifted back.
Extend Free Leg
Straighten the trailing leg behind you at an angle, pressing the edge into the ice.
Press and Slide
Dig the lead edge into the ice, allowing friction to slow you rapidly.
Stand Up
As speed decreases, begin standing up while maintaining edge pressure.
Key Tips
- Keep your head up and shoulders square in the direction of travel.
- Maintain balance centered over your hips.
- Concentrate pressure on the inside edge of the lead foot.
- Allow the trailing leg to carve broadside to stop the momentum.
- Start upright, get low, and stand up as you stop.
- Practice first at slower then faster speeds.
Mastering the slide stop takes time and practice. Nail-down edge control and proper weight transfer. Absorb the stop through your knees and hips, keeping your upper body quiet. This impressive move can rapidly shed speed with skill and stability.
14. Off-ice conditioning for Skating
Improving your overall fitness, balance, and leg strength will translate to enhanced skating skills. Try these off-ice exercises:
Balance Training
- Stand on one leg on a soft foam pad, holding for a duration
- Close your eyes during one-leg standing to increase the difficulty
- Practice controlled squats while standing on one leg
Core and Leg Strengthening
- Squats, lunges, calf raises without weights
- Leg lifts lying on your side or back
- Planks and side planks to tighten the core
- Yoga poses like warriors, downward dog, and tree pose
Plyometric Training
- Jumping rope drives explosive leg power
- Lateral hops over cones or ropes
- Bounding leap exercises with controlled landings
- Jump squats to build strength and stability
Footwork Drills
- Ladder footwork like hopscotch patterns
- Quick feet shuffle forward/back and lateral
- Cariocas and other multi-directional steps
Consistency is key for off-ice training to translate onto the ice. Train year-round to continually develop fitness.
Start the Journey
Learning proper techniques for stopping when ice skating provides a critical foundation for safety and control. From basic snow plows to advanced power slides, mastering stops makes skating more enjoyable and expands skill possibilities.
Remember to slowly build up footwork, balance, edge awareness, and leg strength. Patience and regular practice are the keys to successfully progressing. Take lessons if needed to receive hands-on guidance. Proper gear, especially an approved helmet, is a must.
Work within your limits and don't get discouraged by falls - they are part of the learning process for every skater. With the right mindset and determination, gradually integrating the various stopping methods covered will elevate your skills across ice sports. Now get out there, enjoy the ride, and stop with confidence!