This video explains the technique of faking a shot while skating in stride.
Coaching Points:
-
Body Positioning: Maintain your regular skating stride with shoulders over your knees and knees over your toes to sell the fake shot while still staying in control.
-
Stick and Puck Positioning: Begin by positioning the puck as if you're about to take a shot. Keep your hands in your regular shooting position to convince the defender or goalie that you're about to release the puck.
-
Deception through Body Movement: As you approach the moment where you'd normally shoot, drop your shoulders slightly and make a subtle motion with your stick. This simulates the initial part of the shooting motion without actually releasing the puck.
-
Stride Continuation: Without breaking your stride, continue skating forward. This will help you maintain momentum, allowing you to quickly execute another move, pass, or shoot after the fake.
-
Effectiveness of the Fake: The key to a successful fake shot is ensuring your body language fully commits to the shot, which can freeze defenders or goalies, giving you more space to create a play.
This technique is highly effective when executed with fluid movement and strong puck control, leading to more scoring opportunities.