What Is the Difference Between Charging, Boarding, and Elbowing in Ice Hockey?

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What Is the Difference Between Charging, Boarding, and Elbowing in Ice Hockey?

How do charging, boarding, and elbowing differ, and how do referees distinguish between these penalties?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: March 17, 2026

Short Answer

Charging involves excessive speed or distance, boarding involves dangerous contact into the boards, and elbowing involves illegal use of the elbow during a hit.

Full Explanation

These three penalties are all related to illegal physical contact but are defined by different types of dangerous actions.

Charging occurs when a player takes multiple strides or jumps into an opponent to deliver a high-force hit. The key factor is speed and distance traveled.

Boarding occurs when a player forcefully checks an opponent into the boards, especially when the opponent is in a vulnerable position. The danger comes from the impact with the boards.

Elbowing occurs when a player uses their elbow to make contact with an opponent, often targeting the head or upper body. The key factor is the use of the elbow as a point of contact.

Officials determine the correct penalty based on how the contact was delivered and the level of danger involved.

Why These Distinctions Matter

Different penalties exist to categorize types of dangerous contact and allow referees to apply the correct level of discipline.

Key Takeaways

  • Charging is about excessive speed or distance before a hit.
  • Boarding is about dangerous impact into the boards.
  • Elbowing involves illegal use of the elbow.
  • Officials assess intent, motion, and point of contact.