Body checking in the NHL is allowed as a fundamental part of the game, but it must be delivered with the player's body and hip, not the elbow or shoulder, and only to an opponent who has possession of the puck or just released it. Illegal body checking includes checking from behind, checking to the head, and boarding.
What is Legal Body Checking
A legal body check in the NHL is when a player uses their body to separate an opponent from the puck. The checking player must use their body and hips, not their elbows, knees, or stick. The player being checked must have the puck or have just released it. The check must be delivered from the front or side, with the checking player keeping their hands and arms in a natural position.
Prohibited Checking Methods
Several types of body checking are illegal in the NHL. Checking from behind is forbidden because it puts the opponent in a vulnerable position. Boarding occurs when a player violently checks an opponent into the boards, which can cause serious injury. High sticking and elbowing use the upper body illegally. Checking to the head, whether intentional or not, is strictly prohibited under the league's rules to prevent concussions and head injuries.
Penalties for Illegal Checking
When a player commits an illegal body check, the referee can call different penalties based on how serious the infraction is. A minor penalty means the player sits for 2 minutes. A major penalty is 5 minutes. If the hit is especially dangerous or causes injury, the player can receive a game misconduct penalty and be ejected from the game. Repeat offenders may also face fines or suspensions from the league office.
Youth Hockey Differences
Body checking rules are different in youth hockey compared to the NHL. In most youth leagues, body checking is not allowed until age 12 or later. Even when body checking is permitted, the rules are stricter to protect younger players. This helps prevent injuries as young players are still developing their bodies and skills.
Player Safety Focus
The NHL has increasingly focused on player safety regarding body checking. The league has added rules against hits to the head and has increased enforcement and penalties for dangerous checks. Coaches and players are taught proper checking techniques that reduce injury risk while allowing the physical nature of the sport to continue. 
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