Skatemill
A treadmill-like machine for ice hockey skating practice.
A skatemill is a practice machine used by professional ice hockey players to improve their skating techniques. It resembles a standard runner's treadmill but is wider and longer, with a specially designed surface that mimics ice rather than a gripping rubber belt. Skatemills are notable for their role in helping players achieve the level of skating ability required to play on an NHL team.
- Maximum speed
- 20 to 30 miles per hour
- Number worldwide
- More than 100
Lore & Background
Skatemills have variable speeds, usually topping out between 20 and 30 miles per hour, and can be set to varying inclines to increase difficulty. They often include handgrips and a harness system to prevent falls during training. The machines are currently most commonly found in the training facilities of NHL teams; for example, there is a skatemill in Vancouver for the Vancouver Canucks and one in Troy, Michigan for the Detroit Red Wings. The skatemill has yet to be introduced widely to European hockey players.
Reader's Guide
Skatemills have become very common in hockey training centers across North America as well as in fitness centers. Some companies have created low-profile commercial fitness models, which can be found in fitness centers and gyms around North America. As of today, there are more than 100 skating treadmills around the world. Their significance lies in providing a controlled environment for players to refine skating techniques, a critical skill for NHL-level play, and in expanding access to such training beyond professional team facilities into public fitness venues.
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