Unlocking the Mystery: What Does Checking in Hockey Really Mean?

Ice hockey is a sport that is full of physical contact, with checking being one of the most crucial components of the game. Many hockey fans, players, and enthusiasts are left wondering, what does checking in hockey really mean? In this article, we aim to unlock the mystery surrounding the art of checking in hockey and provide you with an in-depth understanding of this crucial element of the sport.

Before diving into the world of checking in hockey, it is essential to understand the fundamental rules that govern this skill. From the legal areas on a player’s body that can be targeted, to the different types of checking, such as body checking and stick checking, understanding these rules is vital to effectively perform and defend against checks.

Checking in hockey is not only about physical strength and power, but also about strategy, timing, and positioning. We’ll explore the art of checking in hockey and provide tips on how to develop your own skills in this area. We’ll also examine the different types of checking, such as boarding, charging, and cross-checking, and discuss the impact of checking on player safety and injury prevention.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, unlocking the mystery of checking in hockey is crucial to mastering this skill and taking your game to the next level. So, strap on your skates and let’s dive into the exciting world of hockey checking!

Understanding the Fundamental Rules of Hockey Checking

Hockey checking is a crucial component of the game that involves using physical contact to gain control of the puck. However, it’s important to understand the rules surrounding checking to ensure the safety of all players on the ice. Physicality, speed, and momentum are all factors that contribute to the potential danger of checking, which is why the National Hockey League (NHL) has implemented specific guidelines regarding checking.

The NHL rulebook outlines several guidelines that players must follow when engaging in checking, including only being allowed to check opponents who have possession of the puck or are the last player to touch it. Interference, charging, and boarding are all prohibited, and a player may not make contact with an opponent from behind. Additionally, the NHL has implemented new rules in recent years to protect players from dangerous hits to the head and neck area.

It’s important to note that while checking is an integral part of hockey, it’s not the only way to gain possession of the puck. In fact, some of the most skilled players in the NHL are known for their ability to outmaneuver opponents and create scoring opportunities without relying on physical contact. However, understanding the fundamental rules of checking is still a crucial aspect of the game.

Whether you’re a seasoned hockey fan or a newcomer to the sport, it’s essential to understand the fundamental rules of checking in order to fully appreciate the game. By following these guidelines, players can engage in physical play while still ensuring the safety of all those involved. Now, let’s dive deeper into the art of checking and explore the various techniques and strategies players use to gain control of the puck.

What constitutes legal checking in hockey?

1. Body Contact: Checking in hockey involves legal body contact between opposing players. A player may use their body to separate an opponent from the puck or to gain possession of the puck.

2. Timing: The timing of a check is critical in determining whether it is legal or not. Players must not make contact with an opponent after the puck has been released, and checks from behind are strictly prohibited.

3. Location: A legal check can only be made against an opponent who has possession of the puck or is within reach of the puck. A player cannot make contact with an opponent who is not involved in the play.

4. Force: A check must be made with reasonable force and within the boundaries of fair play. Illegal checks that can cause injury, such as boarding or cross-checking, are strictly prohibited and can result in penalties or even suspensions.

5. Equipment: Players must use their body and stick to check opponents, and the use of other equipment, such as elbows or knees, is strictly prohibited.

It is important to note that the rules and regulations surrounding checking in hockey may vary depending on the level of play, with stricter rules often enforced at the youth and amateur levels. By understanding what constitutes legal checking, players can play the game safely and within the boundaries of fair play.

How are penalties assessed for illegal checking?

Penalties for illegal checking can be severe and impact the outcome of a game. Referees are responsible for determining if a check is legal or not, and if they determine that a player has committed an illegal check, a penalty will be assessed.

Most often, illegal checking results in a minor penalty, which means the offending player must sit in the penalty box for two minutes. However, more severe checks, such as boarding or checking from behind, can result in major penalties, game misconducts, or even suspensions.

Players can also receive penalties for checking after the whistle or for targeting an opponent’s head, neck, or spinal area. These penalties can result in fines and suspensions in addition to on-ice penalties.

It’s important for players to understand the rules and consequences of illegal checking to ensure player safety and fairness in the game.

The Art of Checking in Hockey: Body Positioning and Timing

Body positioning and timing are key elements of effective checking in hockey. A well-timed check can disrupt the opponent’s offensive play, create a turnover, and energize the defending team. Proper body positioning is essential for preventing penalties, avoiding injuries, and maximizing the impact of a check.

One important aspect of body positioning is keeping your feet moving. Stationary checking makes it easier for opponents to evade your check or draw a penalty. By keeping your feet moving, you can maintain balance, track the opponent’s movement, and generate power for the check.

Timing is also critical for effective checking. A poorly timed check can result in a missed opportunity or a penalty. To time a check correctly, you need to anticipate the opponent’s movement, adjust your speed and angle, and use your body weight to deliver a powerful, legal check.

Finally, it’s important to remember that checking is not just about physicality. Good checking also involves mental preparation and discipline. You need to stay focused, read the game situation, and make smart decisions about when and where to deliver a check.

What is the proper body positioning for effective checking?

Proper body positioning is crucial when it comes to effective checking in hockey. Players need to keep their feet shoulder-width apart and knees bent, with their weight evenly distributed over both legs. The player’s chest should be facing the opponent, with the player’s arms and stick extended in front of them.

The player should aim to hit the opponent with their shoulder, not their elbow or stick. The player should also try to avoid hitting the opponent from behind, which is a dangerous and illegal move known as boarding.

Timing is also crucial when it comes to body positioning. Players need to read the play and anticipate where the opponent will be, then move in quickly to deliver the check.

Effective body positioning can help players deliver strong, legal checks while minimizing the risk of injury to themselves and their opponents.

How can timing impact the effectiveness of a check?

Timing is a crucial component of effective checking in hockey. It involves understanding the movements of your opponent and anticipating when and where to deliver the check.

One common mistake players make is to rush the check, leading to a poorly timed and ineffective hit. Waiting too long can also be detrimental, as it can give your opponent the opportunity to avoid the check or make a quick pass.

The key is to time your check properly, taking into account the speed and direction of your opponent and positioning yourself to make the hit at the right moment. This requires quick thinking, good vision, and strong skating skills.

Timing is also important when defending against a check. A well-timed sidestep or body movement can avoid a hit altogether or minimize its impact, allowing you to maintain possession of the puck and control of the game.

Types of Checking: Boarding, Charging, Cross-Checking, and more

Boarding: A boarding penalty occurs when a player violently checks an opponent into the boards. The penalty is assessed when the opposing player is in a vulnerable position and the checking player shows no regard for the opponent’s safety.

Charging: A charging penalty is called when a player takes more than three strides before checking an opponent. This penalty is meant to prevent dangerous collisions that can result in injury.

Cross-Checking: A cross-checking penalty is assessed when a player uses their stick to hit an opponent with both hands, without making contact with the puck. This can cause injury and is considered a dangerous play.

Slashing: A slashing penalty occurs when a player swings their stick at an opponent with the intent to injure. This can result in injury and is often called in retaliation for a perceived wrong committed by the opposing player.

Interference: An interference penalty is assessed when a player makes contact with an opposing player who is not in possession of the puck. This can slow down the opposing team’s momentum and is considered a dangerous play.

Understanding the various types of checking in hockey is crucial for both players and fans alike. By knowing the rules and penalties associated with each type of check, players can ensure they play within the bounds of the game, while fans can better appreciate the skill and athleticism required to execute each type of check effectively.

What is boarding and when is it called?

Boarding is when a player violently pushes or body-checks an opponent into the boards (the wall surrounding the rink). Boarding can be called when the player being checked is too close to the boards or if the check is done with excessive force.

Boarding penalties are typically given for checks that result in an injury. A player can receive a minor, major, or game misconduct penalty for boarding, depending on the severity of the infraction.

It’s important for players to recognize when a hit may result in a boarding penalty and to adjust their body positioning and force accordingly. Proper body control and awareness of one’s surroundings can help prevent dangerous checks and keep players safe on the ice.

Referees have a responsibility to protect players from dangerous hits, and boarding penalties are an important tool for enforcing player safety. Understanding the rules and guidelines for boarding can help players and fans appreciate the importance of fair and safe play in hockey.

How does charging differ from other types of checking?

Charging is a type of checking that involves taking several strides or jumping into a hit. It is illegal because it can result in serious injuries, especially if the victim is caught off-guard. The key difference between charging and other types of checking is the distance traveled before the hit. A player who runs into an opponent from a distance is considered to be charging, whereas a player who hits an opponent while remaining stationary or taking only a few strides is not.

Players who charge are typically assessed a major penalty and game misconduct, which means they are ejected from the game and may receive additional discipline from the league. Additionally, the victim of a charging penalty may be injured and unable to continue playing, which can impact the outcome of the game and the player’s career.

Charging penalties can also occur when a player checks an opponent while traveling too fast or from too far away. Officials are trained to make the distinction between a legal check and a charging infraction, but it can be difficult to determine in real-time, especially at high speeds.

What are the consequences of a cross-checking penalty?

Cross-checking is a dangerous move that can cause injury to an opponent. As such, it is penalized severely in hockey. If a player is caught cross-checking, they will be sent to the penalty box for two minutes or more, depending on the severity of the infraction. Additionally, if the cross-checking causes injury, a major penalty and game misconduct may be assessed, resulting in the player being ejected from the game.

A cross-checking penalty can also have significant consequences for the team, as they will be shorthanded for the duration of the penalty. This can be particularly problematic if the penalty occurs during a key moment in the game, such as during a power play or late in the game when the score is close.

Players who are repeat offenders or who commit particularly egregious cross-checking infractions may also face further disciplinary action from the league, such as fines or suspensions.

It is important for players to understand the serious nature of cross-checking and to avoid this move whenever possible, focusing instead on legal checking techniques that can be just as effective without putting opponents at risk of injury.

The Impact of Checking on Player Safety and Injury Prevention

Checking is an integral part of hockey, but it also poses a significant risk of injury to players. Concussions, broken bones, and spinal cord injuries are all potential consequences of checking.

There are several measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of injury, including stricter penalties for dangerous checks, improved equipment to protect players, and better education on safe checking techniques.

In addition to reducing injury risk, proper checking techniques can also improve player performance. A well-timed check can disrupt an opponent’s play, leading to turnovers and scoring opportunities.

Ultimately, it is important for players, coaches, and officials to prioritize safety on the ice and to work together to create an environment that promotes both physicality and responsible play.

What are the most common injuries resulting from checking in hockey?

Concussions: One of the most common injuries in hockey resulting from checking is a concussion, which is a type of traumatic brain injury. This occurs when a player’s head hits the boards or ice after a hard check, causing the brain to move within the skull.

Spinal cord injuries: Another potential injury resulting from checking is a spinal cord injury, which can occur when a player is checked from behind or into the boards. This can cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or other long-term effects.

Broken bones: Checking can also result in broken bones, particularly in the arms and legs, as well as in the face if a player is hit with a stick or puck.

Soft tissue injuries: Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and contusions, are also common in hockey due to checking. These injuries can occur in various parts of the body, including the shoulders, knees, and hips.

How have rule changes impacted player safety in recent years?

Rule changes have been implemented in an effort to reduce the number of injuries resulting from checking in hockey. One of the most significant changes is the introduction of the concussion protocol, which requires players who may have suffered a concussion to undergo a medical evaluation before returning to the game.

Another important rule change is the elimination of the two-line pass, which has led to a faster pace of play and fewer collisions in the neutral zone. Additionally, the clutching and grabbing that was once common during play has been penalized more heavily, resulting in a decrease in the number of obstruction-related injuries.

The NHL has also made significant changes to the equipment worn by players, including stricter regulations on the size of goalie pads and the introduction of lightweight helmets that provide better protection against concussions.

Overall, these rule changes have had a positive impact on player safety, with a decrease in the number of serious injuries resulting from checking in hockey.

What can players do to protect themselves from injuries resulting from checking?

Wear proper protective equipment: Players should wear all the necessary protective gear like helmets, mouthguards, shoulder pads, elbow pads, shin guards, and gloves to prevent injuries from checking.

Improve their physical conditioning: Players who are in better physical shape are less likely to get injured. Improving their strength, flexibility, and balance can also help players absorb hits better.

Learn proper techniques: Players should learn the proper techniques for taking and giving checks to avoid injury. Coaches should teach players to keep their head up, to hit with their shoulder, not their elbow, and to avoid hitting from behind.

Be aware of their surroundings: Players should always be aware of their surroundings and keep their head up to avoid collisions with other players or the boards. They should also keep an eye on the opposition’s players to avoid dangerous hits.

Report injuries: Players should report injuries to their coaches, trainers, or team doctors. Playing through an injury can make it worse and may lead to more severe injuries.

Mastering the Skill: How to Improve Your Hockey Checking Technique

Practice makes perfect: As with any skill, mastering checking requires consistent practice. Work on your footwork, timing, and body positioning to ensure you are making the most effective checks.

Focus on technique: Proper technique is crucial to both maximizing the effectiveness of your checks and reducing the risk of injury to yourself and others. Focus on keeping your head up, leading with your shoulder and hips, and keeping your elbows and stick close to your body.

Watch and learn: Pay attention to the techniques of skilled checkers in both professional and amateur games. Analyze their footwork, positioning, and timing to identify areas where you can improve your own technique.

Build strength and endurance: Checking requires both physical strength and endurance. Incorporate strength training exercises, such as squats and lunges, into your workout routine, and work on improving your cardiovascular fitness through activities such as running or cycling.

What are some effective drills for improving checking technique?

Drill Name	Description	Objective
Shadowing	Follow a partner around the rink and mimic their movements while focusing on your checking technique.	Develop muscle memory and improve body positioning for effective checking.
Angle Drills	Set up cones in a line and approach them at different angles, checking the cone before skating around it.	Practice proper body positioning and timing for checking opponents at different angles on the ice.
Gap Control Drills	Skate towards a partner and practice maintaining a safe distance while positioning your body for an effective check.	Develop awareness and timing for controlling space on the ice while preparing for a check.
One-on-One Drills	Set up a one-on-one scenario with a partner and practice checking while maintaining proper body positioning.	Develop game-like situations and practice timing, angling, and decision-making in checking an opponent.
Checking Bag Drills	Set up a bag or dummy and practice checking techniques with different approaches and body positions.	Develop technique and power in checking, while practicing with a variety of scenarios and positions.

Improving checking technique is crucial for hockey players looking to dominate in the game. Focusing on drills that improve body positioning, timing, and decision-making will make a significant difference in a player’s performance on the ice. Shadowing is a great way to develop muscle memory and body positioning. Angle Drills help players practice checking at different angles while maintaining their body position. Gap Control Drills help develop awareness and timing for effective checking. One-on-One Drills provide a game-like scenario for players to practice timing, angling, and decision-making while checking an opponent. Finally, Checking Bag Drills allow players to practice different checking techniques with a variety of approaches and body positions.

How can players work on their body positioning and timing off the ice?

As with any sport, ice hockey requires a combination of physical ability and mental agility. To improve their body positioning and timing off the ice, players can engage in a variety of exercises and drills. Here are some tips to help players work on these important skills:

Plyometric exercises: These exercises involve explosive movements that can help improve a player’s power, speed, and agility. Plyometrics such as jump squats, box jumps, and lateral bounds can help players develop the quick twitch muscles necessary for effective body positioning and timing on the ice.

Video analysis: Studying game footage can be a valuable tool for players looking to improve their body positioning and timing. By reviewing their own performance, players can identify areas where they need to improve and work on developing better habits and techniques.

Yoga: While it may not seem like an obvious choice for hockey players, yoga can help improve flexibility, balance, and core strength. By practicing yoga poses such as downward dog, warrior, and tree pose, players can develop better body control and balance, leading to more effective body positioning on the ice.

Reaction time drills: Improving reaction time is essential for effective body positioning and timing in ice hockey. Reaction time drills such as reaction ball drills, ladder drills, and cone drills can help players develop better reflexes and reaction time, which can lead to better body positioning and timing on the ice.

By incorporating these exercises and drills into their training regimen, players can improve their body positioning and timing off the ice, leading to better performance on the ice. Remember, practice makes perfect, so it’s important for players to stay committed and dedicated to their training in order to see results.

Frequently Asked Questions