Mastering Edge Control in Power Skating

When people talk about elite hockey players, you’ll often hear words like smooth, balanced, or explosive. What ties all of those qualities together? Edge control.

Whether you're making tight turns, exploding off the line, or pivoting under pressure - your ability to control your edges can be the difference between a missed play and a game-changing moment. That’s why edge control is a cornerstone of power skating and essential for player development at every level.

What is Edge Control in Hockey?

Edge control refers to how effectively a player uses the inside and outside edges of their skate blades to maneuver on the ice. It's what allows players to:

• Make sharp turns at full speed

• Stop on a dime

• Transition smoothly between forward and backward skating

• Stay balanced through physical contact or tight puck battles

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Great edge control = maximum control, agility, and efficiency in every movement.

Why Edge Control is Crucial in Power Skating

Fluid Movement & Transitions

Hockey is a game of constant change - direction, speed, and momentum. With strong edge control, players can transition quickly and cleanly, making it easier to keep up with the flow of the game.

Better Game IQ Execution

When you’re confident on your skates, your mind is free to focus on strategy, passing lanes, and puck control - not on staying upright. That’s why edge control directly impacts decision-making and situational awareness.

Balance Under Pressure

Players with strong edge control are more stable in contact, more efficient in movement, and better able to recover after quick stops or tight turns. This skill also helps reduce injury risk and boost overall performance.

Drills to Improve Edge Control in Hockey

Whether you’re new to power skating or looking to reach elite levels, these edge control drills are a great way to build confidence and agility on the ice:

Figure 8 Edge Work

Skate in tight figure 8s using cones. Focus on deep knee bends and using your inside and outside edges equally. This drill builds balance, stride control, and sharp turning ability.

Tight Turns Around Cones

Set up cones in a straight line and practice making tight, controlled turns around each one. Emphasize staying low and pressing into your edges without over-rotating your upper body.

Inside Edge Circles

Skate tight circles using only your inside edges - first clockwise, then counter-clockwise. Stay balanced over your skates, keep your chest up, and focus on smooth edge contact.

Quick Stops & Starts

Practice quick stops using both your inside and outside edges. Alternate directions and repeat for reps. This improves edge response time, balance, and agility under pressure.

Balance Glide Drill

Push off and glide on one foot using your outside edge, then your inside edge. This challenges your balance and forces precise edge activation.

Build Better Edge Control with Kombeitz Power Skating

At Kombeitz Power Skating, we believe that mastering edge control is one of the fastest ways to elevate your entire game. Our on-ice training programs focus on stride technique, edge mastery, and game-ready skating drills that help players of all levels become more confident, agile, and explosive.

Whether you're in youth hockey development or pushing for the next competitive tier, edge control training is essential - and we’re here to guide the way.