Roller derby is an exhilarating sport known for its fast-paced action and dynamic gameplay. However, it also prioritizes safety and injury prevention. At Mid-State Roller Derby, we believe that proper training, adherence to safety rules, and cross-training are crucial to ensuring that our skaters enjoy the sport while minimizing the risk of injury.
Here’s how we keep our players safe and promote a healthy roller derby environment:
Comprehensive Training Programs
Before our skaters even step onto the track for a game, they undergo extensive onskate training. This training period is essential for developing the skills necessary for safe gameplay. New recruits participate in a rigorous training program that includes:
- Basic Skating Skills: Skaters learn fundamental skating techniques, including stops, falls, and agility drills. Mastery of these skills is crucial for maneuvering safely during games.
- Derby-Specific Skills: Beyond basic skating, players are taught derby-specific moves such as blocking, jamming, and pack strategies. Understanding these techniques reduces the risk of accidents during gameplay.
- Safety Protocols: Our training emphasizes the importance of safety gear, proper falling techniques, and communication on the track. Skaters are drilled on how to protect themselves and their teammates during intense moments.
Rules Designed for Safe Gameplay
The rules of roller derby are meticulously crafted to ensure the safety of all participants. Here are some key aspects of our rule set that contribute to a safer game:
- Contact Zones: The rules specify where skaters can legally make contact with each other and what parts of their bodies they can use to make contact, known as legal target and blocking zones.
- Penalty System: Those who engage in potentially unsafe behavior, such as making contact outside legal blocking and target zones, are immediately penalized and sent to the penalty box. This system encourages adherence to safe play rules and fosters a safer environment for all skaters.
- Game Structure: Roller derby games are structured with regular intervals and breaks to prevent fatigue-related injuries. This structure allows skaters to rest and recover, reducing the risk of overuse injuries.
Cross-Training for Overall Fitness
Cross-training is an integral part of our injury prevention strategy. By engaging in a variety of physical activities, our skaters build overall strength, flexibility, and endurance, which are vital for injury prevention. Our recommended cross-training regimen includes:
- Strength Training: Building muscle strength, particularly in the core, legs, and upper body, helps skaters withstand the physical demands of roller derby and reduces the risk of injuries.
- Cardiovascular Fitness: Activities such as running, cycling, and swimming improve cardiovascular health, which enhances a skater’s stamina and recovery time.
- Flexibility and Balance: Incorporating yoga and pilates into our training helps improve flexibility and balance, which are crucial for avoiding falls and maintaining control on the track.
Creating a Culture of Safety
At Mid-State Roller Derby, safety is a core value embedded in our culture. We encourage open communication about injuries and wellness, ensuring that skaters feel supported and heard. Our coaches and medical staff are always available to provide guidance on injury prevention and management.
We’re lucky to have a wonderful partnership with Advanced Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine, which helps keep our team healthy and safe.
Joining a Safe and Supportive Community
We understand that potential new members may have concerns about the safety of roller derby. Our commitment to comprehensive training, strict adherence to safety rules, and emphasis on cross-training should alleviate these concerns. By joining Mid-State Roller Derby, you become part of a community that prioritizes your well-being while allowing you to enjoy the thrill and camaraderie of this fantastic sport.
Injury prevention and safety are paramount in roller derby, and we take pride in our measures to ensure our skaters can enjoy the sport with confidence. Through rigorous training, adherence to safety rules, and comprehensive cross-training, we create an environment where skaters can thrive while minimizing the risk of injury. So, lace up your skates, join us at Mid-State Roller Derby, and experience the excitement of roller derby in a safe and supportive setting.