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Blocking Shots the Right Way: Proper Technique and Injury Prevention

  • Writer: Kevin Geist
    Kevin Geist
  • 6 days ago
  • 3 min read

Blocking shots is one of the most selfless and game-changing plays in hockey. A

well-timed block can kill momentum, save a goal, and energize the bench. But when done incorrectly, shot blocking can also lead to bruises, broken bones, or long-term injuries. The key is technique, positioning, and preparation—not just courage.


Why Shot Blocking Matters


Shot blocking isn’t about throwing your body in front of the puck at all costs. It’s about:

  • Taking away shooting lanes

  • Forcing rushed or altered shots

  • Supporting your goalie by keeping pucks to the outside


When done correctly, shot blocking becomes a controlled defensive skill, not a reckless act.

Proper Shot-Blocking Technique


1. Close the Gap Under Control


Great shot blocks start before the shot.

  • Close space quickly but under control

  • Stay balanced and square to the shooter

  • Keep your stick active to influence shot direction


The closer you are, the less power the puck carries—and the more predictable the release becomes.


2. Square Up and Take Away the Middle


Always try to face the shooter head-on.

  • Chest and hips square

  • Stick flat on the ice, blade angled toward the shooter

  • Hands tight to the body


This positioning maximizes coverage while minimizing exposed areas.


3. Knee-Down Block (The Most Common Technique)


This is the safest and most effective block for point shots.

  • Drop the inside knee (closest to the puck)

  • Skate blade stays flat on the ice

  • Shin pad faces the shooter

  • Stick covers the ice to eliminate low shots


Avoid spinning or turning sideways—this exposes ankles, calves, and backs of the legs.


4. Stick-First Mentality


Your stick is your first line of defense.

  • Lead with the stick, not your body

  • Force shots into shin pads or wide of the net

  • Deflect pucks when possible instead of absorbing them


Many “blocks” should actually be deflections.


5. Angle the Block, Don’t Absorb It


You’re not trying to stop the puck dead.

  • Slightly angle your body

  • Let the puck glance off shin pads

  • Direct rebounds to the corners


This reduces impact force and prevents dangerous rebounds in the slot.

Common Shot-Blocking Mistakes

  • Turning sideways at the last second

  • Dropping too early and sliding out of position

  • Reaching with the stick while leaning forward

  • Blocking when a goalie has a clear sightline


Smart defenders know when to block—and when to let the goalie see the puck.

Injury Prevention: How to Protect Your Body


1. Wear Properly Fitted Equipment


Ill-fitting gear is the #1 cause of shot-blocking injuries.

  • Shin pads should fully cover knees and ankles

  • Tongue of the skate must sit behind the shin pad

  • Pants should overlap the top of the shin pads

  • Elbow pads and gloves must be snug


No gaps = no broken bones.


2. Strengthen the Right Areas


Strong muscles absorb impact better.

  • Quads and glutes (for knee-down blocks)

  • Core (for balance and stability)

  • Ankles and hips (to prevent awkward twists)


Off-ice strength training directly reduces injury risk on the ice.


3. Avoid Over-Blocking


Not every shot needs to be blocked.

  • Trust your goalie

  • Maintain defensive positioning

  • Prioritize sticks and angles first


Over-blocking leads to fatigue—and tired players get hurt.


4. Practice Shot Blocking


Shot blocking should be trained, not improvised.

  • Start with tennis balls or soft pucks

  • Progress to controlled drills

  • Emphasize positioning and timing


Confidence comes from repetition, not fearlessness.

Teaching Young Players the Right Way


For youth players especially:

  • Teach blocking from the knees first

  • Never encourage diving or spinning

  • Reinforce “stick first, body second”

  • Praise positioning, not just sacrifice


The goal is long-term development, not short-term heroics.

Final Thoughts


Blocking shots is a skill built on anticipation, positioning, and trust in technique—not just toughness. When players learn how to block shots the right way, they become more effective defenders while protecting their bodies for the long season ahead.


The best shot blockers don’t just stop pucks—they stay healthy, stay reliable, and stay in the lineup.

 
 
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