This is the unofficial starter guide to learning how to play adult hockey as a beginner, or even a returning player. All the information I wish I had when I began.

Is Adult Hockey Right for You?

What to Expect

• Physical demands and fitness requirements
• Time commitment (practices, games, open hockey)
• Financial investment overview
• Social and community aspects

Common Concerns Addressed

• "I'm too old to start"
• "I can't skate"
• "I'm not athletic enough"
• "I'll be the worst player"
• "It's too expensive"

Different Paths to Playing

• Learn-to-play programs
• Beginner leagues
• Drop-in/stick-and-puck sessions
• Adult hockey camps

Getting Started: First Steps

Before You Buy Anything

• Try a learn-to-skate or learn-to-play program
• Rent equipment for your first few sessions
• Attend a public skate or stick-and-puck
• Talk to local players and rink staff

Setting Realistic Goals

• Timeline expectations (6 months to basic competency, 1-2 years to league play)
• Skill progression milestones
• Balancing hockey with other commitments

Finding Local Resources

• Nearby ice rinks and facilities
• Adult hockey programs in your area
• Online communities and forums
• Local hockey shops and fitting services

Essential Gear Guide

The Absolute Essentials

• Skates (most important investment)
• Helmet with cage/visor
• Gloves
• Stick
• Athletic supporter/jock
• Shin guards
• Elbow pads
• Shoulder pads
• Hockey pants
• Socks and base layers

Budget Breakdown

• Starter package (~$300-500)
• Mid-range setup (~$500-1000)
• Higher-end gear (~$1000+)
• Where to save vs. where to invest

Buying Tips

• New vs. used equipment
• Getting properly fitted
• Online vs. local hockey shop
• Seasonal sales and deals

Gear Maintenance

• Drying and storing equipment
• When to replace items
• Basic skate maintenance
• Dealing with smell

Learning to Skate

Skating Fundamentals

• Finding your balance
• Forward skating mechanics
• Stopping (snowplow, hockey stop)
• Backward skating basics
• Crossovers and turning
• Edge work fundamentals

Practice Progression

• Week 1-4: Balance and forward skating
• Week 5-8: Stopping and direction changes
• Week 9-12: Backward skating and crossovers
• Month 4+: Refining technique and speed

Learning Resources

• Group skating lessons
• Private instruction
• Online video tutorials
• Practice drills you can do alone

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skates too big or poorly fitted
• Looking down at your feet
• Not bending your knees
• Rushing progression

Positional Play Basics

• Understanding positions (forward, defense)
• Basic offensive concepts
• Defensive responsibilities
• Playing without the puck

Finding the Right League/Program

Types of Adult Hockey

• Instructional/learn-to-play leagues
• Recreational leagues (C, D divisions)
• Competitive leagues (B, A divisions)
• Drop-in/pick-up hockey
• 3-on-3 leagues

Evaluating Your Skill Level

• Honest self-assessment
• Most beginners start at lowest division
• It's better to be a strong player in a lower division

League Considerations

• Competition level
• Time commitment
• Cost (league fees, ice time)
• Season length
• Travel requirements

Questions to Ask

• What's the skill range in the division?
• How many games per season?
• Are there playoffs?
• What's included in fees?
• Is there a practice component?

Your First Season

Pre-Season Preparation

• Off-ice conditioning
• Open hockey/stick-and-puck sessions
• Getting comfortable in full gear
• Learning basic rules

First Game Expectations

• Pre-game jitters are normal
• You will make mistakes
• Focus on effort, not perfection
• Introduce yourself to teammates

Hockey Etiquette

• Locker room protocol
• On-ice communication
• Respecting officials
• Sportsmanship expectations

Common Beginner Challenges

• Keeping up with play speed
• Knowing where to be
• Managing nerves and fatigue
• Building confidence

Building Team Chemistry

• Being a good teammate
• Communicating on the ice
• Post-game socializing
• Contributing to team culture

Continuing Your Development

Off-Ice Training

• Skating-specific exercises
• Strength and conditioning
• Flexibility and mobility
• Stick skills practice at home
• Stick-and-puck sessions
• Open hockey, also called "rat hockey"
• Skills clinics
• Private lessons

Advancing Through Divisions

• When to consider moving up
• Tracking your progress
• Setting new goals
• Joining multiple leagues

Long-term in the Game

• Beer leagues and social hockey
• Tournament play
• Outdoor/pond hockey
• Giving back (coaching, mentoring)

Resources for Continued Learning

• YouTube channels
• Hockey training apps
• Books and guides
• Online communities

Final Thoughts

Starting adult hockey is an incredible journey. You'll gain fitness, learn a new skill, and join a fantastic community. The key is to start, be patient with yourself, and enjoy the process.

Remember: every hockey player started as a beginner. The best time to start was yesterday. The second best time is today.