So. This was my second-and-a-half week of roller derby practice. I now understand why newbies are called fresh meat…because I feel like I’ve been beaten with a meat tenderizer.

I’ve had a few of you (LINDS) asking for an update. And I’m still here. We’re good?

No?

Okay, fine. Last night, there were a few of us (read: ME) who really needed a refresher on the basic skills. So we spend the first part of practice skating the diamond-which involves cutting in on the corners…for which you need crossovers.

Why Crossovers?

Here’s a quick science-filled video for all my nerdy girls out there to explain it:

…cross overs. They are currently the bane of my existance-and not the sexy Batman Tom Hardy Bane, either.

They are HARD! I feel like I’m going to fall-but not in a good way. I don’t mind falling on my super thick pads. But crossovers make me feel like I’m going to fall straight on my hip. Not.Good.

I understand that it’s all about weight transfer, and honestly, I thought I had a pretty good handle on my center of gravity…but apparently I don’t. So I’ll be crossing over all over the house until I can do this right.

That should entertain the boys at least. I also read somewhere that walking up stairs sideways crossing over can help your muscle memory-so I guess I will be squatting a whole lot this week.

10 Lap 4 Fall

Also, after watching her video I am so incredibly thankful that we only have to do a 10 lap 4 fall. I’m pretty sure that at this point anything more would kill me. Of course, I have a LONG way to go before I pass my laps-my time last night was 3:09…I need to skate those 10 laps (falling 4 times) in under 2:30. 

It’s going to take some work!

I am absolutely loving my lessons, the girls, and the atmosphere. I realize that it takes months (and years) of practice to get “there”….but dang it I am determined!

I want to be on my skates all the time, especially since Ish told me that my ankles are getting thinner. Why thank you, honey!

So I’m going to keep at it. I’m hoping to add a free skate on either Tuesday or Thursday nights so that I can work on my skills. Because it takes lots and lots of practice to be a kick ass derby girl, and y’all. I want it SO bad.

Got any skating tips for me? Share ’em below!