IHM Knowledge Center
What Is Holding in Ice Hockey?
When does using your body or stick to control an opponent become illegal holding, and how do referees identify it?
Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: April 19, 2026
Short Answer
Holding is a penalty that occurs when a player uses their hands, arms, or stick to restrain or slow down an opponent.
Full Explanation
Holding is called when a player restricts the movement of an opponent by grabbing, hooking, or wrapping them with arms or stick.
Unlike legal body positioning, holding involves physically limiting the opponent’s ability to skate freely.
This can happen during puck battles, along the boards, or when trying to stop an opponent from advancing.
The key factor is whether the player is controlling space legally or restraining the opponent illegally.
NHL vs IIHF Rule Differences
Both NHL and IIHF define holding as illegal restraint of an opponent.
The NHL may allow more physical battles for positioning, while IIHF typically enforces stricter interpretations.
However, clear restriction of movement is penalized in all leagues.
Legal Positioning vs Holding
Players are allowed to use their body to maintain position and protect space.
Holding becomes illegal when a player uses hands, arms, or stick to grab or control the opponent.
The difference lies in whether the opponent is free to move.
If movement is restricted, it is holding.
Why These Calls Are Controversial
Holding is controversial because it often occurs in tight physical situations where both players are engaged.
Fans may see a battle for position, while referees focus on restriction of movement.
Controversy usually arises from:
- Board battles
- Net-front positioning
- Use of arms or stick
- Consistency of enforcement
These calls depend heavily on judgment.
Edge Case: Brief Contact vs Continuous Restraint
A key edge case occurs when a player briefly makes contact but does not continue to restrain the opponent.
If the contact is momentary and does not affect movement, it may be allowed.
If the player maintains contact and restricts movement, it is usually penalized.
Duration of contact is an important factor.
IHM Signal System: How to Read the Situation
To identify holding, focus on these signals:
- Grip signal: Are hands or arms grabbing the opponent?
- Restriction signal: Is movement limited?
- Duration signal: Is the contact sustained?
Trigger-level rule:
If a player uses hands or stick to restrain an opponent’s movement, a holding penalty is almost always called.
If positioning is maintained without restriction, it is usually legal.
IHM Insight: Why This Rule Is Misunderstood
Holding is misunderstood because fans often focus on contact rather than control.
Contact alone is not illegal. Restriction is the key factor.
Two similar plays can be judged differently depending on whether movement is affected.
Understanding contact vs restraint is key.
Mini Q&A
What is holding in hockey?
Restraining an opponent using hands, arms, or stick.
Is all contact illegal?
No, only when movement is restricted.
Where does holding happen most?
Along the boards and in front of the net.
What is the key factor?
Restriction of movement.
Why is holding penalized?
To ensure fair play and freedom of movement.
Why This Rule Exists
The holding rule exists to prevent players from unfairly restricting opponents and disrupting fair play.
It ensures players can move freely and compete fairly.
Key Takeaways
- Holding restricts movement
- Hands, arms, or stick can be used illegally
- Contact alone is not enough
- Duration matters
- Fair movement is protected