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An adult pushes a field hockey ball towards two flat markers on outdoor turf

Sports hobbies

How to start field hockey with a gentle push pass

Cost to start
Protective kit + pitch access

Borrow a stick and ball; check kit and venue fees locally

Difficulty
Beginner

Learn a basic grip and a controlled push pass

First result
Five pushes through a gate

Allow 20–30 minutes for warm-up, practice and rests

Try field hockey with a borrowed stick, learn the basic grip and push a ball through a wide marker gate while keeping it on the ground.

What you need to know

  1. A borrowed field-hockey stick and ball

    Ask a club for a stick that fits you and a ball for practice. Use a field-hockey stick with its flat playing face, not the rounded back.

  2. Mouth, shin and ankle protection

    Bring a well-fitting mouthguard and shin and ankle protection, even for gentle practice. Ask a club what kit it can lend and what it requires.

  3. Permission for a clear turf area

    Use level hockey turf with no one in the ball path and room beyond your target. Bring two flat markers; avoid a crowded park or roadside.

  4. Suitable shoes and water

    Wear grippy shoes for the surface and comfortable clothes. Bring water and postpone if the ground is slippery.

Field hockey is an outdoor stick-and-ball sport. Practise gentle ground-level pushes on permitted hockey turf. If you cannot get suitable kit or clear space, book an adult beginner session instead.

Set a safe target

Walk gently and loosen your legs and shoulders before handling the ball. Put two flat markers about a metre apart, roughly three metres from your starting spot; adjust as needed. Check the space beyond the gate. Stop whenever someone enters the area.

Learn the grip and push

Place your left hand near the top of the stick and your right lower on the grip, comfortably separated. Keep the lower hand relaxed and bend your knees. Use the flat face for this exercise. Nudge the ball gently once to feel where the stick touches it.

Stand side-on with your left shoulder towards the gate and the ball near your right foot. Start with the stick touching the ball. Push forward without a backswing, transferring weight towards your left foot, then follow through low towards the gate. Keep the ball rolling on the ground. Retrieve the stopped ball with the stick low, then reset. Leave hits, scoops and tackles for coaching.

Record five separate pushes

Count a success when the ball rolls through the gate without lifting. Aim for five, but note how many attempts you needed even if you finish with fewer. If the ball misses, move closer or widen the gate. If it lifts, use less force and check that the flat face stays behind it; ask a coach if it keeps happening. Stop if a movement hurts. Next time, ask an adult beginner group to check your grip and teach you how to receive and move with the ball.

Prepare for your first practice

Beginner Sports Field Hockey