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SkatingAgility

Star Skating Agility Drill

This drill builds the edge control and change-of-direction skating that underpins nearly every on-ice skill, using a simple star-shaped cone pattern that works forward skating, crossovers, and tight turns in one continuous sequence.

Age RangeAges 7+
Duration6–8 minutes
Group SizeIndividual, in a line
SportHockey

Equipment Needed

  • 5 cones

Setup

  • Place one cone in the center and four more spaced evenly around it, roughly 8 to 10 feet out, forming a star pattern.
  • Skaters line up at the center cone to begin each rep.
Star Skating Agility Drill1234S5-cone star, points ~8–10 ft from centerSkate out, tight turn, return to center — repeat to each point

Instructions

  1. From the center cone, skate forward to point 1, execute a tight turn, and return to center.
  2. Repeat out to points 2, 3, and 4 in sequence, always returning to the center cone between points.
  3. Alternate turn direction (inside edge, outside edge) on different points to work both sides evenly.
  4. Run 2 to 3 full sets per skater, resting while others go through the pattern.
Coaching Points
  • Bend the knees deeply through every turn — an upright body position slows the turn and reduces control.
  • Keep the head and chest up, looking ahead to the next cone rather than down at the ice.
  • Push explosively out of every turn rather than gliding back to center.
  • Work both turning directions evenly so players don't develop a dominant-side habit.

Variation

Add a puck to stickhandle through the pattern once skating technique is solid, or turn it into a timed relay between two lines for a competitive finish.

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