Speed Skater vs Hockey Player – Compare the Skating Techniques

When it comes to ice sports, speed skating and hockey are two of the most popular disciplines. Both require excellent skating skills, but the techniques used by speed skater vs hockey player differ significantly. In this blog post, we’ll compare the skating techniques of speed skaters and hockey players and explore the differences between them.

Skating Technique of Speed Skaters

Speed skaters are known for their remarkable speed and agility on the ice. They use a technique called the “speed skating stride,” which involves pushing off the ice with the inside edge of the blade and gliding on the outside edge. This technique allows them to maintain a steady pace and achieve maximum speed with each stride.

Speed skaters also use a crouched posture to reduce air resistance and maintain balance. They keep their arms bent at the elbows and close to their bodies, which helps them generate more power with each stroke. Speed skaters also use long blades that extend beyond the length of their feet, which allows them to maintain a longer glide and achieve higher speeds.

Skating Technique of Hockey Players

Hockey players, on the other hand, use a different skating technique designed for quick turns and sudden stops. They use a technique called the “hockey stop,” which involves digging the inside edge of the blade into the ice and turning the body to come to a quick stop. This technique is essential for players to change direction quickly and avoid opponents on the ice.

Hockey players also use shorter blades than speed skaters, which allows them to make quick turns and sudden stops. They keep their upper bodies straight and use their arms for balance and to generate power. Hockey players also use a more upright posture than speed skaters, which allows them to see the ice and react quickly to changing situations.

Comparison Table: Speed Skater vs Hockey Player

Skating Technique You should Know

• Use the “speed skating stride” technique
• Push off the ice with the inside edge of the blade and glide on the outside edge
• Keep their feet close together and parallel
• Use a crouched posture to reduce air resistance and maintain balance
• Use long blades that extend beyond the length of their feet
• Use the “double push” technique to generate more power with each stride
• Often use drafting to conserve energy and maintain speed
• Compete in races on oval tracks

Hockey Players

• Use the “hockey stop” technique
• Dig the inside edge of the blade into the ice and turn the body to come to a quick stop
• Position their feet at a slight angle, with one foot in front of the other
• Use a more upright posture to see the ice and react quickly to changing situations
• Use shorter blades for more agility and maneuverability
• Use the “power stride” technique to generate more speed and power with each stride
• Need to be able to skate backward and use the “backward crossover” technique
• Often use the “pivot” technique to change direction quickly
• Compete in games on a rectangular rink

Training and Conditioning

Speed Skaters

• Focus on endurance and speed training
• Train at high altitudes to improve endurance and oxygen uptake
• Compete in long-distance races, such as the 5000m or 10,000m
• Need to maintain a high level of speed and energy for a longer period of time

Hockey Players

• Need to develop strength, agility, and quick reflexes
• Need to practice stickhandling, passing, and shooting skills, in addition to skating skills
• Need to be able to stop and change direction quickly
• Play in shorter games with periods of 20 minutes each
• Need to be able to perform quick bursts of activity followed by periods of rest

Pros and Cons : Speed Skater vs Hockey Player

Equipment

Speed Skaters

• Use long blades that extend beyond the length of their feet
• Wear skin-tight suits to reduce air resistance
• Wear helmets, gloves, and shin guards for protection

Hockey Players

• Use shorter blades for more agility and maneuverability
• Wear skates with ankle support and blades that are curved at the ends
• Wear helmets, gloves, shoulder pads, elbow pads, shin guards, and a mouthguard for protection

Strategy and Tactics

Speed Skaters

• Need to maintain a steady pace for a longer period of time
• Use drafting to conserve energy and maintain speed
• Often use the slingshot to overtake their opponents
• Compete in races on oval tracks

Hockey Players

• Need to make quick decisions and react to the movements of their opponents
• Use the pivot to turn on one foot and change direction quickly
• Often use the toe drag to deceive their opponents and create scoring opportunities
• Compete in games on a rectangular rink

Skating Surface

Speed Skaters

• Compete on indoor or outdoor oval tracks made of ice
• The ice surface is smooth, flat, and free of obstacles
• The ice temperature is kept at a constant -5°C to -10°C to maintain the quality of the ice

Hockey Players

• Compete on indoor or outdoor rinks made of ice or synthetic materials
• The rink surface is divided into zones, with different markings for face-offs, goals, and penalty boxes
• The ice temperature is kept at a constant -5°C to -10°C to maintain the quality of the ice

Physical Demands

Speed Skaters

• Require excellent cardiovascular endurance and muscular strength
• Need to maintain a high level of speed and energy for a longer period of time
• May experience muscle fatigue, dehydration, and hypothermia during long races

Hockey Players

• Require excellent cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and agility
• Need to perform quick bursts of activity followed by periods of rest
• May experience muscle soreness, injuries, and fatigue during games and practices

Mental Demands

Speed Skaters

• Require focus, concentration, and mental toughness
• Need to maintain a steady pace and avoid distractions during long races
• May experience anxiety, stress, and pressure during competitions

Hockey Players

• Require quick decision-making, strategic thinking, and teamwork
• Need to anticipate the movements of opponents and teammates
• May experience pressure, stress, and frustration during games and practices

Popularity and Accessibility

Speed Skating

• Is a popular sport in countries such as the Netherlands, Russia, and Canada
• Has a smaller fan base and less media coverage compared to other sports
• May be less accessible due to the need for specialized equipment and facilities

Ice Hockey

• Is a popular sport in countries such as Canada, the United States, and Russia
• Has a large fan base and significant media coverage
• May be more accessible due to the availability of ice rinks and equipment rental options

Cultural Significance

Speed Skating

• Has a long history and cultural significance in countries such as the Netherlands and Norway
• Is often associated with winter sports and the Olympic Games
• May be viewed as a niche sport in other parts of the world

Ice Hockey

• Has a strong cultural significance in countries such as Canada and the United States
• Is often associated with national identity and pride
• May be viewed as a violent or aggressive sport by some people

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, speed skater vs hockey player use different skating techniques to excel in their respective sports. Speed skaters use the speed skating stride to achieve maximum speed and maintain a steady pace, while hockey players use the hockey stop to change direction quickly and avoid opponents. While both techniques require excellent skating skills, they are distinct and suited to the specific demands of each sport.

Both speed skater vs hockey player are skilled skaters, their techniques and training are tailored to the specific demands of their respective sports. Whether you prefer the speed and grace of speed skating or the fast-paced action of hockey, both sports require a high level of skill and dedication to excel.