Equipment Needed
- Skates
- Open ice
Well-fitted skates matter most here
Properly fitted skates make the difference for a player still building basic balance on the ice.
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- Skaters spread out on the ice with enough space to move safely.
- Coach demonstrates each balance position before skaters attempt it.
Instructions
- Stand in a basic athletic stance, knees bent, hands out for balance, holding for 10 seconds.
- Practice a gentle forward rock (weight shifting toe to heel) without falling.
- March in place, lifting each skate slightly off the ice one at a time.
- Finish with a slow glide forward for a few feet, staying balanced in the athletic stance.
Coaching Points
- Bent knees are the foundation of everything in skating — repeat this cue constantly.
- Falling is a completely normal and expected part of this drill; teach players how to get back up safely, too.
- Keep hands and arms out for balance rather than down at the sides.
- This drill can't be rushed — comfort and confidence on skates come before any real skill work.
Variation
Add gentle partner hand-holds for extra support for the newest skaters, or turn balance holds into a fun "statue" game.