Tips for Women Ice Hockey Players to Improve Their Skills

Women's hockey is a fast-paced, exciting sport that requires hand-eye coordination, balance, speed and strength. However, a lot of women tend to be intimated of the idea of playing ice hockey. By following these four valuable tips, you will learn how to excel in the sport.

First of all, it is key to have proper gear that fits correctly. Women wear the same gear as men, even though the rules for the women's checking game are slightly different than the men's rules. The equipment includes a helmet, mouth guard, shoulder and chest pads, elbow pads, padded gloves, padded shorts, socks, garter belt (to hold up the socks), jersey, and hockey stick. Oh, and don't forget the skates. It is important to visit a retailer that knows how to properly fit the equipment for your body. Women's hockey is a physical sport; it is your responsibility to make sure that your body is protected. Remember that not all ice skates are created equally.

This brings us to the second tip, learning the difference between figure skates and hockey skates. Hockey skates are wider and are usually made out of a thicker material than figure skates, which are normally made out of leather. The laces are generally wider on hockey skates. There are differences in the blades as well. Figure skates have a serrated front end that hockey stakes do not have. You're going to be playing women's hockey, make sure to purchase hockey skates.

Tape has numerous uses in ice hockey that you should be familiar with. This tape is either cloth or plastic and is approximately one-inch wide. It is used around socks to help them hug your legs better and not slide. It is used around the blade of your hockey stick to improve your handling of the puck. It is used to protect hands. Really it is used wherever you feel that you need reinforcement of your equipment - use it liberally and use it to your advantage.

Additionally, it is important to remember that women's hockey is a team sport. The final tip is to get to know your teammates. Learn about each other's likes and dislikes. Trust each other. Once you become a women's hockey player, you will enjoy wonderful workouts, the pleasure of challenging yourself to become quicker and faster, and the joy of making friends for life.

Sources:

USA Hockey
Ice Hockey Helmet