DIY "Fast Hands" Stickhandling Training Aid

The Fast Hands Stickhandling Training Aid is very cool and allows a lot of creativity and variety as you practice.  In the video below, Mark Ivan shows how you can build your own version using 3/4" PVC.  His instructions are clear and simple, and you'll see step by step how to proceed.

I sat in my living room with a PVC cutter and parts, and created my own (just slip fit for now) in about a half hour.  Time well spent.



Mark gives all dimensions in the video, but here it is all listed out.  All the pieces are 3/4" PVC.

1 - 12" long
2 - 11" long
2 - 10" long
6 - 3 1/2" long
4 - 1" long

4 - "T" joints
4 - 45 degree elbows
2 - 90 degree elbows

Primer and solvent (optional)
Spray paint (optional)

A note about the primer and solvent, you'll find that you don't need much, so buying a can of each will give you enough for many, many projects.

Here's a great video showing you twenty five different drills you can do with your new training aid, and each drill is shown at full speed, then slowed down so you can see what's going on.  One thing to remember is that you don't have to stand still in front of it.  Try standing to one side or the other as you practice.  Move around it as you move the puck.  You can also pop the puck or ball over the top of the bar, so you can get used to thinking in 3D as you stickhandle.



Each flat side is numbered, with 1 on the left, going to 5 on the right.  This becomes helpful when you write down your favorite drills, so you can note which openings you're using.  I can see this becoming a kind of "HORSE" game with stickhandling sequences instead of shooting too.  Think Simon with a puck instead of flashing lights.

Finally, here's a video with stickhandling wiz Pavel Barber.  He stresses creativity and getting out of your comfort zone as you practice for maximum benefit.  The key here is not trying to go too fast for your skill level.  Speed will come as you improve, so don't frustrate yourself needlessly by trying to do too much too soon.