Ice hockey is a physical and intense sport that requires players to skate, pass, shoot, and score. One of the most crucial elements of ice hockey is checking, which is a defensive tactic used to gain possession of the puck or stop an opponent from scoring. For those who are new to the sport, understanding the different types of checks in hockey and the rules that govern them can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you understand what gets checked in hockey.
In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of checks, including body checks, hip checks, and poke checks, and explain when and how to use them. We’ll also cover the penalties associated with illegal checking, such as boarding and charging, and discuss the protective gear that can help prevent injuries from checking. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about checking in hockey.
So, whether you’re a player, coach, or fan, dive into this comprehensive guide and discover the ins and outs of checking in hockey. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how to use checking to your advantage and avoid penalties. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why checking is a crucial part of hockey
Checking is one of the most important skills in hockey, and it’s essential to the game. It’s a technique used to separate an opponent from the puck and can be the difference between winning and losing a game. In this article, we’ll explore why checking is so crucial to hockey and what players need to know to be successful at it.
There are several types of checking, and each has its own purpose. Body checking is the most common and involves using your body to separate the opponent from the puck. Stick checking involves using your stick to disrupt your opponent’s play. Poke checking is when you use your stick to poke the puck away from your opponent. Learning how to check properly is essential to be successful in hockey, and it takes practice and dedication to master.
Understanding the Different Types of Checking
Body checking is the most common type of checking, and it involves using your body to separate your opponent from the puck. It’s essential to learn proper body checking techniques to avoid injuries and penalties. Stick checking is another type of checking that involves using your stick to disrupt your opponent’s play. It’s an effective way to take the puck away from your opponent without causing a penalty. Poke checking is when you use your stick to poke the puck away from your opponent. It’s an excellent way to disrupt your opponent’s play and regain control of the puck.
Mastering the Art of Checking
- Proper body position is essential when checking. You need to be low to the ground with your knees bent and your weight forward to have the most power and control.
- Timing is critical when checking. You need to time your check correctly to avoid getting a penalty and to be effective at separating your opponent from the puck.
- Learning to read your opponent’s movements and anticipate their next move is crucial to checking effectively. Understanding your opponent’s tendencies will give you an advantage when trying to separate them from the puck.
The Importance of Checking in Hockey
Checking is a crucial part of hockey, and without it, the game wouldn’t be as exciting or as competitive. It’s a skill that takes time and dedication to master, but it’s essential for players to learn if they want to be successful in the sport. It’s also a way to show your opponents that you’re not intimidated and that you’re there to compete. Overall, checking is a vital component of hockey that players at all levels need to understand and master to be successful.
The different types of checks in hockey
Checking is a crucial aspect of hockey that requires players to use their bodies to gain control of the puck or disrupt the opposing team’s play. There are various types of checks that players can use during a game, and each type requires different skills and strategies. Here are the most common types of checks in hockey:
Body check
Body checks are one of the most common types of checks in hockey, where players use their bodies to hit an opposing player and separate them from the puck. Body checks can be executed along the boards, in open ice, or behind the net, and require proper timing, positioning, and physical strength.
Stick check
Stick checks are another type of check in hockey that involves using the stick to disrupt an opposing player’s play or take the puck away. Stick checks can be executed by poke checking, sweeping, or lifting an opposing player’s stick and require quick reflexes, timing, and stickhandling skills.
Hip check
Hip checks are a type of check that involves using the hip to hit an opposing player and separate them from the puck. Hip checks can be executed along the boards or in open ice and require proper timing, positioning, and physical strength. Hip checks are not as common as body checks but can be effective when used correctly.
- Conclusion: Understanding the different types of checks in hockey is crucial for players to succeed in the sport. By mastering these checks, players can gain control of the puck and disrupt the opposing team’s play, leading to more scoring opportunities and ultimately, more wins. Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll cover some tips for mastering these checks and taking your game to the next level.
How to execute a proper body check in hockey
Hockey is a high-contact sport, and a well-executed body check can make all the difference in gaining possession of the puck. However, it’s important to note that body checking is a dangerous move if not done properly, and can result in serious injury. Here are some tips on how to execute a proper body check in hockey:
First and foremost, make sure you are in a good position to execute the check. Keep your knees bent, your head up, and your body in a low stance. This will give you stability and balance when making contact with the opponent.
Proper Timing
- Timing is key in executing a body check. You want to hit your opponent when they least expect it, catching them off guard and forcing them to lose control of the puck.
- Make sure you have a clear path to the opponent, and avoid making contact from behind, which can result in a penalty or even an ejection from the game.
Correct Technique
Proper technique is essential to executing a safe and effective body check. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and your body centered. This will help you maintain balance and control during the check.
- Take a few quick strides toward your opponent and bend your knees to lower your center of gravity.
- As you approach your opponent, shift your weight onto your back foot and pivot your hips in the direction of the check.
- Extend your arms and make contact with your opponent’s body, aiming for the chest or shoulder area.
- Follow through with the check, using your legs and hips to generate power and momentum.
Safety First
While body checking is a necessary part of hockey, safety should always come first. Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind:
- Never check an opponent from behind, as this can result in serious injury.
- Avoid hitting opponents in the head or neck area, as this can cause serious injury or even concussion.
- Always keep your elbows tucked in and avoid throwing them out during a check, as this can cause injury to yourself or your opponent.
By following these tips, you can execute a proper body check in hockey while minimizing the risk of injury. Remember to always prioritize safety and play within the rules of the game.
Penalties associated with illegal checking in hockey
Hockey is an intense and physical sport, and checking is a vital part of the game. However, there are rules and penalties associated with illegal checking that players should be aware of to avoid getting penalized.
Illegal checking can lead to several types of penalties, including minor penalties, major penalties, and game misconduct penalties. The severity of the penalty depends on the severity of the infraction.
Minor Penalties
- A minor penalty can be assessed for illegal checking when a player makes contact with an opponent using their elbow, knee, or head.
- A minor penalty can also be given if a player checks an opponent from behind or if they make contact with an opponent’s head or neck area.
Major Penalties
- A major penalty can be assessed if a player delivers a check with excessive force, resulting in injury to the opponent.
- A major penalty can also be given for checking from behind with excessive force or for hitting an opponent with the stick.
Game Misconduct Penalties
A game misconduct penalty is the most severe penalty that can be assessed for illegal checking. This penalty is given when a player’s actions are deemed dangerous or reckless and pose a significant risk to their opponents. It results in the player being ejected from the game and potentially facing further disciplinary action.
Protective Gear That Can Help Prevent Injuries from Checking
Ice hockey is a contact sport that comes with a certain level of risk for injuries. However, wearing the proper protective gear can help minimize the risk of getting injured from checking. Here are some of the essential protective gear that every hockey player should have:
Helmets
A helmet is one of the most important pieces of protective gear in hockey. It protects the head and brain from concussions and other head injuries. Make sure to choose a helmet that fits properly and is certified by a recognized safety standard organization.
Shoulder Pads
Shoulder pads provide protection for the upper body, including the chest, back, and shoulders. They can help prevent injuries from body checking and other types of collisions. Make sure the pads fit properly and cover the vital areas.
Mouthguards
Mouthguards are essential for protecting teeth, gums, and the mouth from impact injuries. They also help prevent concussions by cushioning the jaw and absorbing shock from hits to the head. Make sure to choose a mouthguard that is comfortable and fits properly.
- Conclusion
Wearing the right protective gear can help prevent injuries from checking in ice hockey. Helmets, shoulder pads, and mouthguards are just a few of the essential pieces of gear that every player should have. By prioritizing safety and protection, hockey players can enjoy the game without putting their health at unnecessary risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is getting checked in hockey?
Getting checked in hockey refers to a legal body contact made by a player against an opponent who is in control of the puck or has just passed it away. The purpose of checking is to disrupt the opponent’s play or take the puck away from them, and it can happen along the boards or in open ice. Checking is an integral part of the game, and it requires a player to use their body to knock their opponent off balance.
Is checking legal in hockey?
Yes, checking is legal in hockey, but it is subject to specific rules and regulations set by the league. Any violation of these rules can result in penalties, such as roughing or boarding, and can even lead to suspensions or fines. Checking can be a dangerous aspect of the game, so it is essential to ensure that players use proper techniques and wear appropriate protective gear to prevent injuries.
What are the types of checking in hockey?
There are two types of checking in hockey: body checking and stick checking. Body checking involves using one’s body to knock an opponent off balance, while stick checking involves using one’s stick to disrupt the opponent’s play or steal the puck. Both types of checking require different techniques and are subject to different rules.
What is a clean check in hockey?
A clean check in hockey is a body check that is legal and executed within the rules of the game. A clean check should not target an opponent’s head, neck, or knees, and should not be made from behind. A clean check should also not use excessive force, and the player delivering the check should not leave their feet.
What protective gear can help prevent injuries from checking?
Wearing appropriate protective gear can help prevent injuries from checking in hockey. Helmets, face masks, mouth guards, shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, shin guards, and skates are all essential pieces of equipment that can help protect a player’s body from the impact of a body check or a fall. Ensuring that protective gear is correctly fitted and in good condition is also critical in preventing injuries.
How can players avoid getting injured from checking in hockey?
Players can avoid getting injured from checking in hockey by using proper techniques when delivering a check and wearing appropriate protective gear. Players should also avoid making dangerous hits, such as those to the head or from behind, and should not use excessive force when delivering a check. Staying aware of one’s surroundings and maintaining good balance can also help prevent injuries from checking.