What is charging in hockey?

Charging in hockey is a penalty called when a player intentionally runs into another player with excessive force or momentum, without allowing for them to move or avoid the hit. It is considered a dangerous play that typically results in a two-minute minor penalty. If a player injures their opponent during a charging penalty, they may receive a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct. The charging rule was introduced to make the game safer for players and to discourage body checking that was deemed too aggressive or dangerous. It is important for players to adhere to the charging rule and understand the limits of legal body checking in hockey.