Edges
The sideways hockey stop is the proper and most efficient way to stop on while skating. As mentioned in the previous article, the snowplow stop (the beginner’s stopping technique) uses the outside edge of both skates to slow down the skater.
In contrast, the sideways hockey stop uses inside edge of the leading (front) skate blade and the outside edge of the trailing (back) skate blade. For example when stopping to the right, you’ll need to use the inside edge of your left blade and the outside edge of your right blade.
One final and important point: stopping involves scraping across the top layer (s) of the ice, not digging directly into it. Even very quick stops have a small amount of slide across the top of the ice.
Balance and Momentum
The greatest obstacle to overcome with stopping is the mental aspect. Most people are worried about falling and therefore are hesitant to turn their feet 90 degrees while stopping. However by using a low centre of gravity and shifting weight, it is possible for anyone to learn how to stop. Bending the knees and spreading the feet further apart while stopping will lower one’s centre of gravity and gives the skater more stability and balance.
It may seem very difficult to turn the skated 90 degrees while digging into the ice but this can be overcome by leaning back together with bending your knees and ankles. Use the leverage from the knee bend to help turn your skates while remembering to lean back. The momentum from the stop will bring your body back to the upright position after stopping.
Remember to always practice stopping on both sides!