💥 All in the Details — Master the Explosive V-Start
Most players rely on crossover starts out of stops — and leave a ton of power on the ice.
This drill forces players to focus on the details: loading through one leg, opening the hips, and exploding into a V-start for max acceleration.
From: Cassidy Hilworth of Total Speed Hockey
⛸️ Skating Skills Targeted:
Starts
Explosive power
Hip mobility
💡 What You’ll Learn:
How to load your single leg for maximum push power
How to open your hips and transition efficiently into a V-start
How to eliminate wasted motion coming out of a stop
🧠 Why Work On This:
Most players default to crossover starts, limiting first-step power.
Learning to open your hips and push from a loaded leg builds speed and explosiveness in tight spaces.
Mastering small details like this separates smooth skaters from elite ones.
🛠️ Equipment Needed:
Nothing beyond ice + a puck if you want to end with a shot
*Full drill description, tips, and optional variations below the video.
VIDEO: ABC Drill
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💥 All in the Details — Master the Explosive V-Start
✍️ V-Start from a Stop Drill Description:
Start players on each blue line (or just one or two lines depending on group size).
Skate to the red line and perform a single-leg stop facing the middle of the ice.
Balance on that leg, load it, open your hip, and explode into a V-start back toward your original blue line.
Turn smoothly (no deep cuts — stay balanced and efficient).
Explode out of the turn with a crossover.
Receive a pass from your line and take it down to shoot.
Coaching Point: DETAILS! Don’t rush the reps — focus on loading the leg, opening your hips, and driving into a clean V-start.
💭 Tips for Success:
Keep transitions smooth — avoid choppy stops or overcutting.
Stay loaded over your working leg with chest over knee.
Open your hips early before initiating the V-start for maximum power.
🔁 Optional Changes or Add-Ons:
Add an extra turn to reverse direction mid-rep.
Incorporate a glide start at the blue line for variety.
Add puck control or back-pressure once players master the pattern.
🧩 Final Takeaway:
It’s all in the details — this drill builds first-step explosiveness and reinforces strong mechanics out of stops. Load, open, and explode — that’s how elite skaters separate from the pack.