Info & Tips

Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday are always a challenge to find the ultimate gift with each passing year.

The holidays are always a special time to share special memories.

And one of the biggest problems we face every year?

Stressing to find the perfect gift for your kids, relatives, and loved ones.

If you have some hockey-playing kids or relatives in your life, then you’re in luck.

This holiday gift guide for hockey lovers is right up your alley. 

This gift guide will cover the at-home essentials and some great stocking stuffers that will make anyone smile.

So keep scrolling so you can get some hockey gift-giving inspiration!

1. A Stick and a pair of skates.

What’s hockey without its two most essential tools?

Do you have kids raring to get into the sport?

Or a relative who needs an upgrade?

They’ll love a new stick or a pair of skates.

The right stick or skates could make a massive difference in power and performance.

In terms of both sticks and skates, Bauer and CCM are the most popular brands.

If you need some stick ideas, consider:

• STX Ice Hockey Surgeon RX3.1 brings the right mix of speed and power.

• Arsenal Envy Carbon Fiber Ice Hockey Stick withTechnology that “delivers consistent explosiveness and precision.”

• STX Stallion HPR2 Ice Hockey Stick with Composite Grip, has fantastic durability. 

And for skates:

• The Bauer Supreme S22 M1 Junior Ice Skates is a great, budget-friendly senior skate that promises comfort, flexibility, and support.
• The CCM Super Tacks 9350 Senior Ice Hockey Skates focuses on durability, stability, and protection while still being a comfortable fit.

• Tour Hockey Tr-750 Ice Hockey Skate that promises best-in-class fit and comfort.

Make sure to get the right size and fit, so you don’t have a disappointed loved one on Christmas Day!

2. A Sweet Grip Stocking-Stuffer

Having a good grip on your hockey stick is crucial for performance.

Tape has always been the go-to for professional hockey players and squirts alike.

While taping is almost synonymous with hockey, it can be a painstaking process.

Taping can also get dirty, smell, and lose its luster, needing continual replacement. Investing in a grip not only makes the process faster, but it lasts much longer.

Companies like Sniper Skin allows you to customize your grip in the color and style of your choice.

Get your loved one a sweet hockey stick grip that gives the user a consistent performance, even when wet.

3. A Shooting Pad or Stickhandling Pad.

Do you know a hockey lover looking to improving their skills but has no access to a rink? Get them a Pro-Skill Infused Shooting Pad.

Shooting pads are large solid panels made of high-quality polyethylene material that feels just like natural ice.

It’s also infused, meaning it will always feel smooth like ice and won’t need future treatment.

The pad can be used on a flat surface to practice their stick control or shooting. 

4. Slip Slide Board

The Slip Slide Board by PolyGlide Ice offers a premium surface that simulates the slickness and glide of real ice, perfect for training and recreational activities.

Its durable design and superior performance ensure a realistic skating experience, whether for practice or play.

5. A Hockey Net with shooting targets.

The future Maurice Richard Trophy winner in your life will need a net to practice their shooting.

Gift them an at-home hockey net complete with shooting targets.

Most goals come with targets in the lower and upper corners to become excellent scorers, preparing them for their next game.

The EZ Goal steel goal with net backdrop is a perfect example of a hockey net they can use to practice indoors and outdoors.

 

If they already have a hockey net, the Franklin Shooting Targets can strap on to any corner of your goal.

Or try the Forza Hockey shooting tool that wraps over any net and provides five scoring zones. 

6. Give the gift of agility.

What you do off the ice is just as important as what you do on it.

The great hockey players know that agility, speed, and acceleration can give them an advantage.

Learning those fundamentals is as simple as performing consistent agility drills.

A set of agility cones will be a perfect gift for the person ready to level up with some simple agility drills in their back yard or driveway.

You can also gift a set of agility ladders, which helps with improved footwork and balance. 

7. Maintain your Edge with the "Re-Edger"

Features a Handheld Multi-Function Skate Blade Sharpener that includes Ceramic Steel and Replaceable Honing Stone.
Perfect for "On-the-Fly" Skate Blade Repairs during practices and games.
From A&R Sports, the leading brand in sports accessories for over 20 years

 

8. Grit HTFX Hockey Tower Equipment Bag

 

Who wants hockey sticks, gloves, skates, and training equipment scattered everywhere?

To keep everything organized, you can gift a hockey equipment bag or ice skating duffel bag.

After training at home, kids or professional athletes can keep all their equipment in one place.

And when it’s time to head to the actual rink, they can just grab and go.

Try the Grit HTFX Hockey Tower Equipment Bag !

 

9. Synthetic Panels For Their Own Rink

What's hockey gear without ice?. So why not gift a hockey rink?

While it sounds crazy, it’s possible with synthetic ice panels.

Synthetic ice panels are made of durable polyethylene that connects like puzzle pieces to cover any flat surface.

These panels feel like real ice as you skate on them with your metal skates.

Gifting a few of our panels will be enough to set up their basement, driveway, garage, or spare room with their own rink.  

10. Passing Aid or Rebounding Dasher Curb.

Wit their synthetic ice rink installed, your kid or loved one would be eager to practice. But who will pass the puck?

Adding The Bounce Bar’s Rebounding Dasher Curb keeps the puck contained while using special rebounding foam to help them play off the walls.

Besides curbs to fit your rink, you can also gift stand-alone passing aids so they can practice shooting off of quick passes.

11. Give the Gift of Hockey Classes.

Does the hockey enthusiast in your life need some extra help?

Why not gift some coaching classes? Coaching can help youth and adult players alike improve their skills.

More importantly, a coach holds them accountable!

While others are slacking off, they will be making an immense progress.

You can gift one or a bundle of classes so they can get expert advice and training.

With the pandemic, training has become increasingly difficult.

So make sure the trainer or coach can provide online classes.

12. Rep Your Favorite Team!

This year’s NHL was unlike any we’ve experienced.

For the hockey fan in your life, gift them with a Team Tee or an authentic hockey T-shirt from their favorite team to get ready for any season.

 

13. For The Hockey Gamer

If the hockey lover in your life is a gamer, you can’t go wrong with NHL 2K21 for PS4 or Xbox.

The Great Eight, Alex Ovechkin, has both his face and fingerprint on the game.

Players get to follow Ovechkin’s career, play NHL ‘94 in Past Meets Present, and create the next superstar in Be A Pro mode.

They’ll enjoy learning the game and skills while having fun with their favorite NHL players.

Help them have a hockey Christmas!

These gifts are sure to make the hockey lover in your life happy.

Sure to make it a special one to remember for years to come!

Throughout the last few years, more and more persons were not getting to enjoy the ice sports they love.

Gifts like synthetic ice panels, rebounders, and our infused training surfaces can help them train at home at their will.

If you need ideas on some of our products to help with your holiday shopping, don’t hesitate to contact us today.

 

 

Figure skating is more than putting on a pair of skates and gliding across the ice.

It’s much more than looking pretty and graceful to elicit the crowd's ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’.

As you progress, you'll quickly learn that there's more to it than meets the eye. 

It’s commitment, grit, and learning the inner workings of every move, down to how you should use your blades on the ice. 

For instance, you’ll learn your ice skate blades contain two edges with a hollow in between that can be sharpened to your preference.

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Here's the 10 Best Figure Skates For Under $200 To Get You Started! 

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And to perform certain moves, like jumps, you'll need to use the inside and outside edges.

The ability to control these edges at will is one of the keys to elevating your jumps. 

Let’s break down the importance of edges, how they help your jumps, and what you can do to gain more edge control.   

What is an edge?

Figure skates contain sharp blades (not as sharp as a high-quality knife but still sharp enough to cut you) with two edges.

Think of the blade being split in two.

The inside edge is the side of the blade that faces the inside of your foot, between the legs.

The outside edge faces away from the body. 

In between those edges is the hollow, a groove that’s carved into the middle of the blade.

The deeper the hollow, the sharper the edge.

This also determines the skater’s speed and the edge’s ‘bite’, which is how much the edge connects to the ice.

In other words, the deeper the edge, the faster, sharper, and cleaner your turns. 

When you skate in a straight line, you’re using both edges.

Curves, turns, spins, and backward and forward movements all require leaning the blade, boot, leg, and hip to use the inside or outside edge, respectively.

In fact, the blade has 8 possible edges when you consider the skater’s feet, edges, and direction.

It must be noted that these are subtle shifts inside and outside rather than large, exaggerated movements.  

Over time, as you generate speed and learn more moves, your edges get deeper as you lean more to one side or the other. 

The edge also determines the skater’s control while being more efficient on the ice.

For instance, a coach will tell a skater to “hold on to their edge” to get more power or to move faster into a spin or jump.

Learning edge control is the next step in your skating journey that can take some time to master.

However, when you do get them under control, elevating your skating, including jumps, becomes easier.

Inside vs outside edges: How do you do it?

When you learn how to use edges, it can feel that you’ve been lied to with skating and edges are all you use.

Coaches will introduce the concept of edges from an early stage, especially if you get the basics covered.

In many cases, learning edges quickly and early is necessary if young skaters want to compete in tournaments or move up the ranks.

Adult figure skaters can learn edges, too if they're going to take their recreational skating up a notch. 

Forward outside edges

You can skate forward using the outside edge of one of your skates.

The best way to do this on the ice is to use an imaginary line or find a hockey line on the ice to act as your center axis.

Start from one end of your imaginary axis.

The goal is to skate on one leg and create a semi-circle until you reach the other end of your line with the skate perpendicular to that line. 

Start with skates in a ‘T’ position with the left leg, the long part of the T.

It should be at right angles to your line. (IF you’re using your right leg, you’ll need to turn your body in the opposite direction).

Your left arm should be extended straight ahead of you and your right arm away from you, forming an ‘L.’

Lean the left skate away from your body, bend your knees slightly, then push off with your right skate.

As you glide, you’ll be using the outside edge of your left skate.

When you make the half-circle, place the right skate down, turn your gliding foot open and push off again, switching to the other foot while switching arms. 

Keep this rhythm to skate on your outside edge.

As you improve, you’ll do this faster, making curves and turns on the outside edge. 

Forward inside edges

The inside edge takes on the same mechanics with some minor changes.

The right skate now comes forward with the inside edge leaning toward the axis.

The left skate will now be at right angles to this one.

Your arms do not change, meaning your body now establishes a cross pattern.

With the right skate leaning toward, push off with the left foot, bend your knee and push off with the left skate.

When you’re ready, or you begin to lose speed, put your right foot down, switch arms, and push off with the left skate.

Repeat this action, and you’ll be skating forward on the inside edge. 

Backward outside edges

Now it’s time for backward inside and outside edges.

With all edges, you’ll be learning to move in a circular pattern (a lobe) with an axis as your guide.

It’s best to have your forward edges mastered before moving on to your backward edges.

The setup for backward edges starts with the gliding leg (your outside leg), perpendicular to the line.

Bring the other skate in front of you, less than shoulder width apart, turning the skate toward your outer leg, forming a ‘V’.

Turn the upper body slightly to face the direction you want to go, establishing the same arm position as the forward edges. 

To skate, you’ll be leaning the outer leg away from you to establish an outside edge with the blade.

Bend both knees and push off the opposite leg away from the body, which propels you backward.

Once you start moving, keep your arms open to maintain balance.

Once you make your half circle, bring your feet and hands close to the body, switch feet, and push off again to establish a smooth skating rhythm backward on the outside edge.

Backward inside edges

Backward inside edges use similar starting positions with a few changes.

The starting position shifts the standing skate slightly into the body to establish an inside edge.

Place the opposite skate in front of you and turn it inward to form that inverted ‘V’ position.

Push away off the inside edge using the opposite to generate power by pushing that foot forward.

Shift your weight over to the gliding foot while your glide backward in the half-circle direction.

Switch your weight and foot over to continue skating. Backward inside edges can be tricky, so keep practicing. 

Edge control tips

• Your ankle, hip, arm, and head positions are vital when you’re on edges. They should all be in a straight line so you don’t end up in another direction or lose your balance.
• Don’t swing your arms quickly or vigorously when switching legs. The upper body plays a big role in figure skating and swinging uncontrollably can cause falls.
• Once you take off and begin gliding, you must lean into your desired edge with the right body alignment. Over time, you can even do deep edges with a more exaggerated lean.
• Use the rink walls to practice your inside and outside edge positioning.
• Figure out which arm positioning feels natural so you can maintain your edges.
• When skating forward, try to get your weight on the middle back of the blade, switching it for backward skating. This is all about feel and comes with practice and experience.

Jumps: A crucial stage of figure skating

Once you have your edge work down, you’ll likely move on to learning the basic and advanced jumps of figure skating.

Jumps require the skater to leap off the ice, perform a revolution in the air, and land on one foot gracefully in a ‘check’ position.

There are 6 recognized jumps in competitions of all levels:

1. Loop
2. Toe Loop
3. Lutz
4. Salchow
5. Axel
6. Flip

 The best figure skaters master these jumps.

They can also do double, triple, and even quadruple turns in the air while performing these jumps.

Each jump has specific technical moves for it to be landed successfully.

What you’ll learn is that all jumps end with the skater landing on the inside edge or outside edge of a skate.

So learning to control your edges is a vital part of this sport. 

What are edge jumps?

These 6 jumps can be split into toe jumps and edge jumps:

• Toe Jumps: These jumps use the toe pick of the opposite foot to generate the power to launch into the air. The Toe Loop, Flip, and Lutz are toe jumps.
• Edge jumps: The skater generates power by bending the knee and launching off the edge of the skate. The trailing foot cannot make contact with the ground at the point of the jump. The Loop, Salchow, and Axel are edge jumps.

 The key to elevating your jumps is to have great edge control, even for the toe jumps as skaters perform jump combinations – two jumps performed back to back – and sequences that require nimble edgework.

How can you elevate your edges?

Great edge control when skating and jumping require practice.

Getting the basics right can take you a long way in your career. To get better edge control, consider the following:

Use a line in the ice

When we described how to do edges, everything started from an imaginary line.

However, if you can use an actual line in the ice, like a hockey line or curling line, you can improve your edge accuracy.

The line will also encourage you to hold your edge for as long as possible, which comes in handy later.   

Consider ice dance

Is ice dancing different from figure skating?

Absolutely.

Think of ballroom dancing, but on ice.

There is no triple axels or crazy overhead lifts.

Ice dancing is all about rhythm, grace, speed, and skating skills.

Most of the moves require you to have fantastic edge control, so it’s a terrific way to strengthen your edges for figure skating. 

Off-ice drills

The work you do off the ice is as important as what you do on it.

You must schedule some time to strengthen your core and explosiveness.

Plyometric exercises are great for figure skaters.

Balance exercises using Bosu balls or other tools ensure you strengthen your ankle, quads, and glutes for those deeper edges.

As an ‘off-ice’ drill, you can also invest in a slideboard or synthetic ice to practice individual foot positioning. 

Do Power Pulls (aka Edge Pulls)

This move constantly challenges you to change your edges while moving in a straight line along the ice.

They are typically done covering the entire length of the rink and can be performed forward and backward on two legs or one leg.

Try them on two feet first.

As you build up speed, keep your feet as close together as possible.

Then bend your knees and push into the ice while twisting your hands and upper body in the opposite direction.

Eventually, you can do this on one leg. It’s a great exercise to improve your edges. 

You've got the edge

The better your edge control, the easier it will be to perform technical moves like jumps.

Edges challenge you to be precise and consistent, that’s why practice is important.

Once your edges are mastered, you can move on to jumps, taking your skating to the next level.

If you’re having difficulty improving your edges, talk to your coach about exercises you can do at home or consider extra lessons focusing on edge drills.

With patience and consistency, you’ll elevate all parts of your skating.

Then you can move on to all the other great figure skating jumps!

 

 

We know that art, in its many forms, imitates life.

This statement is especially true in the art form of cinema. 

For decades, we’ve enjoyed movies that relate to our lives and passions.  

Sports movies are a typical example:

If you’re a football player, you would love Rudy, Friday Night Lights, or Any Given Sunday. 

Baseball?  Field of Dreams or 42. 

The list goes on.  

But what about ice skating

Yep, there are some classics there too. 

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As we’ve been deeply involved with ice skating for years, we’ve watched our fair share of the best ice skating movies ever produced. 

If you’re looking for some ice skating content or you’re planning for a movie night, you’re in luck!  

Below (in no particular order) are the 10 best ice skating movies you need to see this year.  

1. Ice Castles (1978) 

We start the list off with an ice skating classic. Ice Castle stars Lyn-Holly Johnson as figure skater Alexis Winston, a young skater who dreams of being a professional.

She’s filled with talent and ambition, but catastrophe strikes when she’s blinded by an accident. 

Not to be deterred, she works tirelessly to regain her skills and compete again.

With the help of her coach and her boyfriend, Nick, played by Robby Benson, Alexis makes an inspiring comeback. It’s a great story of overcoming adversity and thriving in a competitive sport. 

Watch Ice Castles On Amazon Prime Video

2. The Cutting Edge (1992) 

The Cutting Edge is arguably one of the greatest ice skating movies of all time.

The show revolves around Kate Moseley (Moira Kelly), a talented skater with a bit of a ‘tude, and Doug Dorsey (D.B. Sweeney), a macho former hockey player. 

Both get sidelined due to injury but come together to form an unusual and unlikely figure skating pair.

They struggle to get along at first but soon begin to turn things around and transform their fortunes.

Experience what turns from personality clashes to trust and eventually love in this fantastic romance on the ice. 

Watch The Cutting Edge On Amazon Prime Video

3. The Mighty Ducks (1992) 

The Disney movie, The Mighty Ducks, focuses on ice hockey but is a family favorite.

Gordon Bombay, a lawyer played by Emilio Estevez, has to do community service for drunk driving by coaching a peewee hockey team. 

Bombay himself is a former junior hockey player with some past demons on the ice.

He eventually teaches the ragtag youth team how to win (The Flying V!) while getting the chance to exorcize some devils of his own. 

Fun Fact: The success of The Mighty Ducks led Disney to found their own NHL team, The Mighty Ducks of Anaheim.

Disney sold the team in 2006, which then went on to win the 2007 Stanley Cup.  

Watch The Mighty Ducks On Amazon Prime Video

4. The Ice King (2018) 

This riveting and well-received documentary chronicles the skating career and life of John Curry.

A generational talent on the ice, Curry mastered the art of ice dancing, winning multiple World Championships and Olympic Gold in 1976. 

The Briton had challenges both on and off the ice, facing prejudice as an openly gay skater.

The pain and hurt for his sexuality were soothed by a welcoming underground gay community. 

The Ice King Dives into Curry's rebellious yet enthralling life that comes to a bitter, unfortunate end. 

Watch The Ice King On Amazon Prime Video

5. Miracle (2004) 

Miracle is often mentioned under any list of the best ice skating movies ever and for good reason. 

It’s a true story based on the 1980 USA Men’s Ice Hockey Team. 

Coach Herb Brooks (Kur Russell) is tasked with assembling a team of amateur college players good enough to compete in the Winter Olympics.

At the time, hockey was dominated by the Soviets. In the 1980 Olympics, the Soviets were the number 1 seed, with Team USA a lowly seventh seed.

They defied all odds through coaching, determination, teamwork, and belief, completing the “Miracle on Ice,” a semi-final 4-3 win over the number one ranked Soviets.  

This game had historical relevance, as the US and the Soviets had opposing ideologies and were in constant geopolitical battles.

This game was seen as a victory for the US in more ways than one. 

If this movie does not hype you up, we don’t know what will. 

Watch Miracle On Amazon Prime Video

6. Blades of Glory (2007) 

Now for a bit of comedy on ice. Will Ferrell is known for his comedic, satirical takes on popular sports, and in 2006, ice skating was soon in his crosshairs.

Blades of Glory revolved around Chazz Michael Michaels and Jimmy MacElroy, who were stripped of their Olympic medals (after fighting on the podium) and banned for life. 

However, their dislike for each other did not trump their need to return to the limelight.

Through a loophole, they re-enter, competing as a male-male pair to regain their *cough* blades of glory. 

If you’re into crude, slapstick comedy, this one’s for you. 

Watch Blades Of Glory On Amazon Prime Video.

7. I, Tonya (2017) 

It was ‘The Whack Heard Around The World.” Figure skating phenom Nancy Kerrigan is attacked by Tonya Harding’s ex-husband in a plot conspired by him and Tonya’s bodyguard.

The movie, however, centers around the life of Tonya Harding, played by the fantastic Margot Robbie.

We learn about her rough upbringing, physical and psychological abuse from her mother, and difficulty to conform in a sport that obsesses about prestige and classism. 

Despite her initial success, the events of 1994 led to Tonya being banned for life from skating.

We get to see fantastic perspectives from Tonya and many players leading up to the incident. 

It’s a must-see. 

Watch I, Tonya on Amazon Prime Video

8. Kiss and Cry (2017)

Kiss and Cry is based on the true story of Canadian skater Carley Allison. Carley is an ascending skater who is suddenly faced with a rare form of cancer. 

Despite the illness, Carley fights through thanks to the love of her family and boyfriend, played by Luke Bilyk. She also finds solace in music.

With a determined spirit, she becomes a success in more ways than one. 

Fun Fat: Carley Allison developed a strong bond with her show’s counterpart Sarah Fisher.

They became best of friends, and much of Carey’s real clothing and home were used in filming the show.

Watch Kiss and Cry on Amazon Prime Video

9. Ice: The Movie (2018) 

In Ice: The Movie, a single father is approached by a famed Russian skating coach with an offer; let me train your talented daughter.

Bailey begins to hone her skills alongside ice skating prodigy Payton Shaw.

The movie explores the complexity of ice skating, rivalries, competition, and friendship.

Through ups and downs, the skaters learn the values it takes to be a great skater and an even better person.

Watch Ice The Movie on Amazon Prime Video

10. The Petrichor (2020) 

Last on our list is  The Petrichor, a Canadian film written and directed by Junga Song.

It’s a story of redemption and a lesson that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams.

Maya is a talented figure skater whose career is cut short by an abusive home and personal tragedy. 

Despite the setbacks, the fire to skate and compete still burns bright inside her. Her age becomes a big obstacle in a sport that favors the young.

Through numerous trials and rejections, Maya picks herself up to compete at an age and time when many thought it to be impossible. 

If you need a pick-me-up or some motivation before your next competition, check out The Petrichor.

Watch The Petrichor on Amazon Prime Video

Honorable Mentions 

There were too many to choose a top ten, but we have to give an honorable mention to the few movies below.

If you run out of ice skating content, feel free to give these a go:

Ice Angel (2000) 

An ice hockey player dies, goes to heaven, and is reincarnated as a figure skater who also dies the same day.

Stars ice skaters Tara Lipinski and Nancy Kerrigan. 

Go Figure (2005)

A 14-year-old ice skater Kaitlyn is determined to get trained by a renowned coach that’s working at a nearby school. 

Ice Girls (2016) 

After an injury, a chance encounter with a coach allows teenage figure skater Mattie to jumpstart her dreams of becoming a skating champion.

Which will you pick first?

There you have it, some of the best ice skating movies you can find. 

Which of these have you seen?

Which of these will you skip?

If you’ve missed any, feel free to get comfy and binge-watch some wholesome ice skating content this weekend or on your off-season.

At the very least, you'll appreciate some of these stories if you’re a figure skater or hockey player. 

The dedication and skill that goes into ice skating are undeniable in some of these examples, even in some of the lighthearted ones. 

So get entertained, inspired, and motivated by watching the best ice skating movies ever!

 

 

You just finished your latest training session on the ice.

You put down your stick, slap off your gloves, and take off your skates.  

Being an aspiring hockey player is hard work, but you’re determined to get better.  

It’s your dream to become the best hockey player you can be and even make it to the big leagues.  

To achieve this, you have to become better than the competition, and that means preparing yourself ... mind and body ... whenever you can.  

 You want to leave nothing to chance. 

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GET THE EDGE ON THE COMPETITION BY TRAINING AT HOME WITH POLYGLIDE SYNTHETIC ICE

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Putting in the Work

It’s important to maximize your skill level and leave no doubt in the judge’s mind that you’re the best on the ice. 

The best hockey players do as much work – if not more – off the ice than on it.  

Now, there are multiple hockey off-ice training equipment to support your journey.  

Your goal is to choose the best equipment available to improve your performance come game time. 

Here are some must-have off-ice training equipment for aspiring players.  

1. Get Stronger Off the Ice 

As you progress in your hockey career, you’ll realize that strength plays a vital role in your performance.

Your leg strength determines how fast and how long you can move across the ice.  

Powerful forearms increase the speed of your shots.  

And a strong core and upper body keep you upright as you run into your opponents.  

It’s essential that you build a strong body off the ice through exercise and nutrition, especially as you move from teen to adult.

Some must-have off-ice training equipment for strength includes: 

• Kettlebells: These versatile weights can be used to exercise almost any body part, taking them through a range of motion that standard dumbbells cannot do.A pair of adjustable kettlebells can help you build muscle off the ice.   
• Forearm Strengthener: For powerful slap shots and a stronger, longer grip on your hockey stick, consider strengthening your forearms. These muscles are often overlooked for the biceps and shoulder workouts. A device like the Fitarc Grip Strength Trainer helps build your forearms and improve your grip strength.  
• Pull-up Bar: Install a pull-up bar in your room, garage, or as part of your home gym. Pull-ups are an excellent compound exercise that targets your back, shoulders, and arms. It also improves your overall functional strength more than dumbbells or most exercise machines. A multi-grip pull-up bar helps you to build your strength off the ice in the comfort of your own home.  

 

2. Get Faster Off the Ice 

Speed plays a crucial part in hockey, with the average hockey player going between 12 and 20 miles per hour.  

The faster you are on skates, the faster you can get to the puck, intercept a winger’s advance, or block a shot if you’re a goalie.  

Improving your speed requires you to increase your reaction time, enhance your skating mechanics, and build a powerful lower body.  

Here is some essential off-ice training equipment that can help build your speed. 

• Slide Boards: Slideboards are long, rectangular boards that allow you to slide from one end to the next. You put on socks or special sliders and practice your skating technique while simultaneously increasing lower leg strength. High-performance slide boards are made of a self-lubricating synthetic ice polymer blend that gives that smooth skating feel, essential for improving your speed and stability.  
• Speed Chute: Become faster and more explosive by incorporating sprinting into your weekly training. Studies show that sprinting can improve testosterone production and increase muscle mass while increasing your speed. Attaching a speed chute adds resistance to your sprinting, making you even faster over time.  
• Speed Ladder: Amazing footwork translates into amazing blade work on the ice. Get a speed ladder, place it on the ground, and perform many drills that improve your speed and agility. 

 

3. Improve Your Balance 

At its core, hockey players need to balance on thin blades and move in sometimes unnatural positions.

Hockey players can be strong and fast, but if you have poor balance, it won't be easy to perform as you progress.

Spend at least one day in the week improving your balance and pushing the limits of balance on and off the ice.

Some great off-ice training equipment includes: 

• Wobble Board or Balance Board: The 3-in-1 balance board training system by Revbalance helps you to improve upper and lower body balance. Place the board on the roller or air cushion, then practice standing or other balance exercises.  
• Bosu Ball: A Bosu ball is a large exercise ball cut in half with a flat side. It sounds simple, but it’s a powerful exercise tool to improve your balance. Stand on the rubber side while practicing squats or one-legged deadlifts. Flip the ball over to improve your balance or strengthen your upper body.  
• Plyometric Box: Get jumping with a plyometric box. Box jumps help with explosion but also balance as you do one-legged Box jumps. 

 

4. Build Your Endurance 

How long are hockey games? Including intermission, a professional hockey game can last 2.5 to 3 hours.  

While you won’t be playing the entire game, hockey becomes a war of attrition. 

The longer you can play and wear down your opponents, the better your chances of winning.  

Off-ice endurance training improves your cardiovascular health and increases your endurance. Some helpful training equipment includes: 

• Weighted Jump Rope: Jump rope is one of the best ways to improve your endurance. Weighted jump ropes make the activity even more complex and can be up to 10 times more effective than non-weighted ropes.  
• Stationary Bike: Riding on a stationary bike allows you to build your endurance and improve your cardiovascular health. You can easily add a bike session before or after your workout.  
• Row Machine: Like stationary bikes, row machines provide significant endurance benefits. However, these machines double as a full-body exercise, strengthening your core, legs, arms, and back. 
• Smart Watch: A smartwatch is an underrated tool to help improve your endurance. You can track distance, time, and heart rate zones during cardio. Recording and monitoring your performance is a great way to increase your endurance over time.  

Agility ladders and cones also help build your endurance. 

 

5. Improve Your Shooting and Puck Handling Skills 

Are you ready to shoot your shot?  

Getting better with the puck is going to be your bread and butter.  

Practicing close control and shooting can instantly make you a better hockey player, especially if you’re a winger or center.  

It’s also the fundamental training new hockey players lean on, using a small ball and hockey stick. 

However, at any stage, stick handling is essential to your success. Here are some hockey off-ice training equipment:  

• Shooting Pad: A surface for practicing your puck handling and shooting is a must-have for aspiring players. These are often made of high-quality polyethylene, like PolyGlide’s Pro Skill Infused Shooting Pad, so you get the same feel as the ice. These shooting pads are especially useful in the off-season, like summertime, allowing you to work on your fine motor skills. While others are relaxing, you return better than ever.  
• Puck Rebounder: Innovative stick handling aids, like PolyGlide's BounceBar Rebounder help you to improvise puck reaction drills with creative rebounder placement for "one-timers".
• Synthetic Ice Starter Kit: Instead of using your stick and a training ball, you can lace up your skates and use a puck on synthetic ice. A large synthetic ice pro glide panel made of high-quality polyethylene allows you to practice your essential moves off the ice in the comfort of your home.  

  

6. Rest and Recovery Matters 

Hockey is demanding on the body.  

It’s a full-body endeavor that also has a high injury probability.  

One of the best ways to avoid injury is to have a solid rest and recovery process. 

It’s not just about sleep, which is extremely important for athletes, but also how you care for yourself and your muscles immediately after practice or competition.  

Several scientific studies confirm the benefits of recovery for athletic performance.

Now, there are must-have tools you can use to improve recovery even more. Here are some examples: 

• Cold Plunge Barrel: It sounds counterintuitive to go from skating on ice to diving into a tub of ice. However, ice has been shown to reduce the inflammation and soreness of athletic performance. It can also help boost essential hormones naturally to help with future performance. Try the Artic Therapy Tub, an affordable cold plunge barre.  
• Massage your sore muscles: Your legs and arms become sore after hockey. You’re also likely to develop micro-tears, cramping, and inflammation. Foam rolling lengthens the muscle, breaks up scar tissue, and improves circulation. This 4-in-1 set targets your back, feet, and legs. Take things up a notch with the handheld Theragun Prime Deep Tissue Massage Gun. This will get to the areas your foam roller cannot. 
• Track your sleep: High-quality sleep does play a role in recovery and future performance. The body gets time to heal and energize itself with restful sleep. Use a smartwatch or an app on your smartphone to keep track of your sleep, or invest in a smart ring that can track your sleep quality.  

 

7. Invest in Hockey Off-Ice Training Equipment 

Hockey is a physically and mentally demanding sport.

You must keep up with and beat the best to become the best.  

The time you invest in hockey goes beyond training on the ice. 

Your off-ice training matters as much, if not more.  

The more disciplined and consistent you are, the faster, stronger, and more accurate you become.  

These are just some hockey off-ice training equipment that can take your game to the next level.  

Some are already accessible to you, while others require a small investment. 

You can create a training plan that focuses on improving each part of your performance on a specific day of the week.  

Thanks to technology, innovative tools like slide boards, and a wealth of information, it’s easier than ever to become better in the sport.  

Are you willing to do what it takes to win? 

 Conclusion

These training tips are designed to enhance not just your physical abilities but also your mental agility, essential for on-ice success.

Consistency in practicing these exercises is crucial for boosting performance and preventing injuries.

The versatility of off-ice training means it can be adapted to various settings and skill levels, making it accessible for all players.

Improvement in hockey comes from this additional effort, setting apart the good from the great.

As you integrate these exercises into your routine, they become powerful tools in developing your speed, strength, and stamina, crucial for hockey success.

Embrace these training methods as key components of your hockey journey.

Stay motivated, challenge yourself, and enjoy the process of becoming a more skilled, confident player.

Here’s to your continued growth and success in the sport!

 

 

 

The holiday tradition of ice skating has a rich history, symbolizing joy, and community spirit.

Ice rinks turn cities into winter wonderlands, attracting people of all ages.

The sound of blades gliding over ice evokes a nostalgic excitement.

Ice skating is a popular winter activity often associated with worldwide winter holiday celebrations.

However, technological advancements have significantly transformed the tradition we all love.

Nothing beats the feeling of skating and training on real ice.

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 OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE BEST SYNTHTEIC ICE

Best Overall Commercial Panel
PolyGlide Pro-Glide Infused Panels

Best Portable Commercial Panel
PolyGlide Pro-Glide Infused "CUBE" Panels

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Synthetic ice rinks are a modern alternative to traditional ice, providing a skating experience that is both efficient and eco-friendly.

Synthetic ice rinks are a modern alternative to traditional ice, providing a skating experience that is both efficient and eco-friendly.

Unlike natural ice, these rinks can be installed almost anywhere, providing greater accessibility to the joy of skating.

They have become more popular due to their eco-friendliness and ability to be used all year round.

Synthetic ice rinks provide a practical solution in areas without natural ice.

This innovation has created more sustainable and inclusive holiday skating traditions.

Create the Right Holiday Ambience

If you're thinking about going synthetic, here are some things you can do to make your holiday ice skating rink magical and unforgettable.

It is essential to have creative and festive decorations to turn a synthetic ice rink into a winter wonderland.

String lights and lanterns help create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the magical experience.

Themed decorations, such as snowflakes and holiday motifs, enhance the festive spirit.

A beautifully decorated skating rink can become a scenic location, drawing in visitors, and resulting in unforgettable experiences.

The right combination of lights and decor can transform an ordinary rink into a holiday spectacle.

Holiday Music Selecttion

Holiday Music Selection for Ambiance

Music plays a vital role in creating the perfect atmosphere for holiday ice skating.

A well-curated playlist of classic holiday tunes can elevate the moods of skaters and onlookers alike.

Combining different genres and tempos is essential to cater to a diverse crowd, keeping the energy lively and engaging.

Live music performances have the potential to be a unique and special attraction that can offer a one-of-a-kind experience.

The sensory experience of a winter wonderland is complete, with music echoing across the rink.

Making it a Beginner-Friendly Environment

Synthetic ice rinks are ideal for beginners as they provide a less intimidating environment to learn skating.

For new skaters, the slower surface can be beneficial in building confidence.

Skating beginners can benefit from using support aids like penguins or seals.

Offering beginner classes and workshops encourages people of all ages to try skating.

A friendly and welcoming environment can encourage individuals who have yet to try skating to develop a passion for it.

Inclusive design for Special Events

Synthetic ice rinks can be designed with inclusivity, making them suitable for various special events.

Rinks can be made more accessible by installing wheelchair-friendly entrances and providing adaptive skating equipment.

Hosting themed skating nights such as costume or retro music nights can attract a diverse range of people.

Private event bookings provide an excellent opportunity for hosting birthday parties, corporate events, or community gatherings.

An inclusive design ensures that everyone, regardless of age or ability, can enjoy the magic of ice skating.

All the Benefits of Synthetic Ice

Synthetic ice is created using high-density polymers designed to imitate the characteristics of natural ice.

The purpose of these polymers is to provide a surface that is both durable and smooth, allowing for easy gliding.

The interlocking panels provide a versatile and adaptable installation option for various spaces.

Advances in polymer technology have enhanced synthetic ice to resemble natural ice more closely in terms of glide and feel.

As technology advances, synthetic ice rinks become more sophisticated, offering an experience that closely mimics natural ice.

Advancements in materials lead to low maintenance and higher glide surfaces for skaters.

Innovations in eco-friendly and energy-efficient materials are emerging to align with the growing demand for sustainability in recreational options.

Integrating innovative technologies can enhance user experience through interactive elements such as LED lighting and responsive sound systems.

These advancements suggest synthetic ice rinks will be more prevalent and enjoyable during holiday celebrations.

 

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Environmentally Friendly Materials

Synthetic ice has a lower environmental impact than traditional ice rinks.

It eliminates the need for refrigeration systems, which consume large amounts of energy and water.

The materials used in the product are often recyclable, which reduces waste and promotes sustainability.

We here at PolyGlide Ice are continuously working to make the most realistiic synthetice ice surface that is also eco-friendly.

Synthetic ice reduces carbon footprint, making it a responsible choice for rinks.

Corporate Sponsorship and Brand Integration

Synthetic ice rinks offer exceptional opportunities for corporate sponsorship and brand integration while providing a unique experience.

Companies have the opportunity to sponsor rinks or specific events, which can provide them with increased visibility among a broad audience.

They can integrate their brand logos into the rink's design or display them around the perimeter.

Additionally, they can sponsor events or themed nights that align with their brand's messaging or campaigns.

The partnership between the rink and the sponsors benefits both parties by creating mutually beneficial marketing opportunities.

Personalized Themes for Events

Ice Rink Themes

Synthetic ice rinks are versatile and can be customized to suit different events with personalized themes.

The rink's appearance can be altered for various events using customizable panels and dasher boards for logos.

The event's theme can be matched with themed decorations and music.

Additionally, special lighting effects can transform the rink, giving each event a distinct experience.

Ice Skating Shows and Performances

Hosting ice skating shows and performances can turn a synthetic rink into a significant attraction.

Skilled skaters, whether they are professionals or local talents, can display their abilities, attract audiences, and create excitement.

Themed performances, such as holiday shows or story-based spectacles, can captivate audiences of all ages.

Adding special effects such as lighting and music can significantly improve the experience.

Holiday-themed competitions and challenges

Holiday themed challenges

Adding holiday-themed competitions and challenges to the skating experience creates an engaging and interactive element.

Participation in costume contests, speed skating races, or figure skating exhibitions is encouraged.

Engage visitors of all ages with family-friendly relay races and skill-based games.

Participants can be awarded prizes and certificates, which help foster a sense of achievement.

These activities create a spirited and competitive atmosphere, transforming the rink into a dynamic and captivating destination.

Supporting local businesses

Synthetic ice rinks can significantly boost local economies during the holiday season by increasing foot traffic in nearby areas.

These rinks create a vibrant marketplace that showcases regional talents and products by collaborating with local vendors and artisans.

The presence of a skating rink often attracts a diverse crowd, leading to increased sales for neighboring businesses.

Such partnerships can foster a sense of community as visitors associate their favorable experiences with local businesses.

Fundraising events and charity initiatives

Synthetic ice-skating rinks set up during the holiday season can be a creative platform for hosting charity events and fundraisers.

These events can have holiday themes, attracting a more extensive crowd eager to participate in seasonal activities while supporting a good cause.

Collaborating with local charities can raise awareness and drive donations through ticket sales or fundraising, enriching the holiday experience and giving back to the community.

Integration with Technology

Integrating the latest technology, like virtual reality, for instance, into synthetic ice rinks is an exciting prospect for the future.

Imagine being transported to a winter wonderland or famous skating rink with a VR headset.

This technology can enhance the skating learning and entertainment experience with personalized coaching sessions and various simulated environments.

VR technology can transform ice skating rinks into unique attractions.

With increasing accessibility, it can revolutionize the way we experience holiday ice skating by making it more interactive and engaging.

Conclusion

Building a Winterfest skating rink with synthetic ice offers an exciting and practical solution for winter enthusiasts and communities looking to celebrate the season.

Remember, the beauty of a synthetic ice rink lies not just in its aesthetic appeal or its ease of installation, but in the magical moments it creates, be it a family gathering, a community event, or a personal hobby.

By embracing this innovative approach, you're setting the stage for unforgettable winter memories, all while ensuring a sustainable and versatile skating experience.

Be sure to check out all of our synthetic ice packages that can be utilized for any WInterfest experince big or small.