Learn to Skate for Derby Wannabes

Are you a derby wannabe in Adelaide?

Join me for learn-to-skate classes, specifically run for derby wannabes. The 90 minute classes cover everything you need to make it into a fresh meat group:

• stops
• derby stance
• stability
• transitions (turning backwards)
• jumps; and
• how to fall

The classes are non-contact and adults only.

The next block of classes will run mid year. Register your interest by emailing EveYllanside@gmail.com

FAQs

How can you teach derby when you’re so new yourself?

These classes do not teach derby. If you’re a skater who’s interested in derby please join a fresh meat intake. Australian league contact details are available on the Roller Derby AU website. These classes teach skating to people who have derby in mind. My background is in ice figure skating and I’m here to teach you skating skills that will help you through derby raw meat training (raw meat focuses on safe skating rather than the contact aspects of derby).

Which league are you affiliated with?

None! This class is completely independent of any particular roller derby league.

When are the classes?

They are currently run on Saturdays

Where are the classes?

At the Parks Recreation Centre, Cowan St, Angle Park

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What time do the classes run?

From 12:45 until 2:15pm. Please arrive between 12:30 and 12:45. The first and last 15 minutes are off skates warm up and cool down to prevent injury.

What should I wear?

Whatever you feel comfortable in and can move around in. If that’s trackies and a baggy T-shirt then go ahead. If that’s fishnet tights, booty shorts and a tank, feel free.

Do I need my own skates?

Yes and no. The Parks does have some hire skates available but they look like they are from the 60s. I highly recommend getting some of your own. If you need advice on buying skates let me know and I’ll give you my contacts. Having said that, if you can’t afford some just yet or you’ve ordered some but they haven’t arrived, don’t let that stop your derby journey – the hire skates will do for now.

Do I need safety gear? How about a mouth guard?

Short answer: no you don’t. More complicated answer: derby girls wear padding and some of the exercises we’ll practice need padding. You won’t need a mouth guard as we won’t be doing any drills involving hitting/contact but if you have some fancy veneers you want to protect then go ahead. Similarly, as classes are non-contact, a helmet is not necessary but no one will point and laugh if you want to be safe rather than sorry. I recommend knee pads, elbow pads and wrist guards as a minimum. I did raw meat in 2010 without padding so it is feasible. If you’re worried, contact me.

Am I too amateur?

No! These classes are for women who are attracted to derby but don’t have skating experience. They are a safe space for learning how to skate.

Am I too advanced?

Perhaps. If you’ve already passed raw meat then you’ve got a head start. I am happy to run exercises for different ability levels. You are welcome to attend if you want to work on a particular selection of raw meat skills – let me know ahead of time so I can modify my lesson plans. If I think you’re too good for the class, I will have a chat with you about your options.

Can this training help me achieve my 25-in-5?

Yes!

Will this improve my fitness?

Depends – how fit are you already? We will work on achieving 25 laps of a the derby track in 5 minutes so if you can’t already do this then, yes, this class will improve your fitness.

After the six week block, will I be able to pass raw meat?

I can’t guarantee that. Hopefully, yes. Let me know if you have a critical try out date that you’re working to and I will give you honest feedback as we go about your likelihood of passing.

Can ref wannabes join the class?

Yes, ref raw meat training is similar (often exactly the same) as roller girl raw meat.

Can someone under 18 take part?

This class is not for children. It is a place for adults to learn to skate without children whizzing around them. If you have kids you want to bring while you have your class, contact me. If you’re an older teenager wanting to join the class and think you can mix well with the adults, contact me.