What Is Tripping in Ice Hockey?

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IHM Knowledge Center

What Is Tripping in Ice Hockey?

What is tripping, and how do officials determine when a player illegally causes an opponent to fall?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 21, 2026

Short Answer

Tripping is a penalty assessed when a player uses stick, body or leg to cause an opponent to lose balance and fall.

Full Explanation

Tripping commonly occurs when a player places their stick between an opponent’s skates or extends a leg to disrupt balance.

Even accidental contact can result in a penalty if it clearly causes a fall.

Officials focus on whether the defender’s action directly led to the opponent losing skating control.

Tripping is typically penalized with a two minute minor.

Why Tripping Is Penalized

The rule protects skating integrity and prevents dangerous falls at high speed.

Key Takeaways

  • Stick or leg causes opponent to fall.
  • Accidental contact may still be penalized.
  • Focus is on loss of balance.
  • Usually a two minute minor.