One of the biggest differentiators between ELITE skaters and everyone else is their ability to use their ankles… Specifically, their ability to relax and bend their ankles! As it stands being “an ankle bender” has a negative connotation in hockey. However, being able to bend your ankles is a key factor in becoming an elite skater. The best players leverage and use their ability to bend their ankles as an asset with complete control, and thus, the best players can be considered ankle benders!
