I love it!

I just completed my 4th roller derby class on Thursday last and I LOVE IT!

My back is finally healed enough that when I lay on the damaged part it just hurts a little. I can now move around normally without wincing in pain or crying out. So I guess I didn't break my pelvis after all!

This week was the most fun so far. Instead of breaking into two groups (veterans and new girls) we all stayed together and literally skated around the track non-stop for over 2 hours. It is a really good work out, more than you would expect.

First we did a time test. We had to skate 25 laps and see how long it took. Eventually we have to do it in under 5 minutes, to pass the minimum skills test. I came in last place at 8+ minutes. I would have been really embarrassed but everyone is so freakin nice that they all cheered for me the last lap. Everyone is very supportive and encouraging, it's really great.

Next off we paired up and took turns pushing each other around the track like shopping carts. Imagine the front person (cart) crouched into derby stance (see derby stance photo) and the rear person pushing them around by their hips.

Next we learned how to whip each other around corners. I was so scared but it turned out to be doable and really fun. Whenever the teachers tell us we are going to do something I immediately think "there is no way I can do that!" But then, I try it and am amazed that I actually CAN. The whipping was really fun.

Lastly we all got in a line and started skating, fairly close to each other. The front person had to skate really fast around the track to catch the back of the line and then weave in and out of every person and then skate around to the back again and the new front person would do the same. It seemed like it took forever! By the time we were done I was so tired I couldn't skate anymore and it was almost 10:00 (class is supposed to be over at 9:30). Some people stayed a while longer to do the exercise again but this time with some hip checks thrown in. I'm glad I didn't stay for that because I saw a lot of falling down going on.

All in all it was great and I can't wait for next week. I am hoping to get some good practicing in this week so I can get better.

Here are some pictures from last week and this week:

This is derby stance. We practice this for hours, until our legs are jelly. Wanton Rebellion has no mercy!

More of the stance. It really is amazing how much more stable you are while skating with this posture.

Our team logo which was artfully designed by one of our teachers "England's Glory". Love it!

Last weeks practice. Not sure what I am concentrating so hard on, probably just not falling!

This weeks practice. The track is bigger than it looks in this picture. Trust me.

I really need to get some cool derby clothes. (It's just sooo cold in there!)

**Oh yeah, I was going to ask: if anyone can think of a good derby name for me I am taking suggestions. I have a couple of ideas but I am not sold on them yet. The one I really wanted is already taken (you can't have the same or similar name to any other derby girl in North America).