Chalk talk #3
Different Shots for Different Situations
We introduce the mechanics of the three basic shots (wrist shots, slap shots and snap shots) as well as some modifications of these three shots (ie: one timers modified from slap shots). Then we discuss what situations are appropriate for each type of shot.
Supplemental Videos
Wrist Shot:
- Should be everybody’s first shot.
- Can be your ‘only’ shot - it is versatile enough for every situation
Slap Shot:
- Only when you have space!
Snap Shot:
- The snap shot is usually the last one learned, but I love it! If you want to learn how to shoot while skating, I recommend learning the snap shot. You keep your hips pointed towards the net, and load up only slightly
- The reason the snap shot or wrist shot is so nice is that the release point and timing are unpredictable (unlike a slap shot which the goalie can see exactly when the shot is going to leave the stick because there is a long lead up, the goalie can track your stick all the way through your backswing to the point of contact). The snap shot is also much quicker, so nobody can steal the puck off you as you get ready to take the shot.
- If any of you have ever seen my breakaway shot--it is a snap-shot, top shelf close side (yes, I have ONE shot). I do pull the puck back first, as he shows just under 2 min into the first video, but most of my power comes from skating full speed. (It is a much better shot as a break away during game play, with somebody chasing me, than on a shoot-out because I go faster...)
The 2nd video is basically the same exact thing as the first video, but they emphasize different pieces of it.
Lifting the puck:
Stick and Pucks:
- This is the most obvious topic to work on at SaP
- Work on any shot, from anywhere.
- Work on aiming! Don’t just try to hit the net (4x6 feet of open space), try to hit a particular corner, or aim for the post/cross bar. Pick your head up! I’m always amazed by the number of players who shoot without first looking to see where the open spot might be
- If you have a partner:
- Work on getting a pass then shooting, either as a 1-timer if you’re ready for that, or as a catch-loadup-release wrist shot. Pass from both the shooter’s left and right (1-timers never from the back of the shooter!!!!!)
Off-ice:
- Looking to improve strength/explosiveness
- Forearms/wrists: Attach a weight to a string (2-3ft) and tie it to the middle of a stick or broom handle etc. Hold it out in front of you and slowly twist the stick (keeping it even) to roll up the string and lift the weight and then lower it back down.
- Quads/Glutes--see my workout plans--pretty much everything in there builds explosive leg strength. It is counter-intuitive but anything that improves quad/glute strength will translate into a better shot, and if you’re doing the shot correctly, building leg/butt strength will have a bigger impact that whatever you do for your arms
- Core, Core, Core. Especially twisty core