Game version
Skate-or-run follow-the-leader: one person leads a movement and the group copies. Swap the leader each time.
Gap Stance Backward Steps
In shoes: hold a low defender stance, take small backward steps and pivot, the footwork of keeping a good gap.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Get low: knees bent, back flat, chest up.
Core: As written. Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time.
- Ages
- 7 and up
- Time
- 8 min
- Players
- Just you
- Space
- Small room
- Bring
- None
- Level · skill
- Beginner · Defense
The steps
How it works
- Get low: knees bent, back flat, chest up.
- Take 3 small steps backward.
- Pivot your hips to one side and freeze.
- Do 10 each way.
Coaching point
Low and square, then pivot.
Safety: Land softly with knees over toes on a non-slip floor. Stop if your knees or ankles hurt.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (slower or smaller), Core (as written), More (one extra twist). Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time.
Story
You are an explorer crossing the ice like a frozen lake.
My best
Beat your own count
Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
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