Youth Inc. Recommends: Four Resources for Hockey Players to Get Faster on the Ice

Speed is often considered one of the most important skills for hockey players. Some pros are famous for their explosive speed—and it’s easy to see how it gives them an edge. Improving skating speed involves more than just going fast in a straight line. It’s also about quick directional changes, stride efficiency, and good form. 

Below are four resources to help players get faster in every aspect of their game. 

Training Speed at All Ages

What it is: An article from USA Hockey explaining why speed is such a key skill and how to build it at different ages. It emphasizes good form for young players, introduces off-ice training for older ones, and then circles back to perfecting technique.

Why we like it: It breaks down how speed training should evolve as players get older—but keeps the focus on mastering the fundamentals at every level.

An In-Depth Guide to Speed Training

What it is: A comprehensive guide to building speed and agility for all on-ice situations. It covers power per stride, increasing stride frequency, and quick directional changes.

Why we like it: It addresses every part of becoming faster—not just straight-line skating. The guide breaks down technique, form, and strength in a way that’s actionable and complete.

Breakaway Speed

What it is: An article focused on improving breakaway speed, featuring a variety of off-ice drills with video instruction.

Why we like it: Breakaways are all about explosive speed and are critical for both forwards and defenders. This resource includes excellent video examples that help players find drills to improve every part of their breakaway game.

Skating Form

What it is: A video guide on proper skating form for speed, covering cadence, leg angles, and more. 

Why we like it: It features NHL comparisons for inspiration and takes a deep dive into the often-overlooked technical details that can make a huge difference in maximizing speed.