At this point you might be thinking something like there are still instances when a shoulder-to-shoulder block is effective. I've seen it!

Well, yes, so have I, but from what I've found those instances are when you are blocking a skater who 1) is just learning to block, 2) doesn't have a good sense of balance, or 3) is already off balance and near falling. And in those cases, any block would take down the skater. In fact, you could probably blow on her and she'll go down.

I don't see much reason to defend shoulder-to-shoulder blocking, because I view it as useless and sometimes dangerous to a skater's health (because of all the shoulder problems). I came to that opinion after analyzing why shoulder-to-shoulder blocking is used and how it could be replaced. I've come up with four reasons that I hope will be helpful to you!

1. Skaters are taught that way and it becomes a bad habit.

I'm not trashing on coaches/trainers. I think this happens because many of them are new to the sport and don't have enough information. Plus, some c oaches teach fresh meat skaters how pass an assessment, rather than how to block and play derby effectively. Though coaches will find they can pass more skaters in less time, they are developing a lower quality player. Take the time and give skaters the best training you can!

2. Skaters aren't fully seeing and taking advantage of all the target zones.