WORK IT
Whipped on wheels
October 2, 2009
Paola Loriggio
SPECIAL TO THE STAR
If you want to play roller derby, get ready to train like an athlete.
"Fresh meat," as novices are called, train up to three times a week, doing push-ups, sit-ups, sprints and drills, says Jeff Brabant, a.k.a. Jeffro Speedwagon, coach for the Toronto Roller Derby league. Seasoned players usually practise twice a week.
The league, whose next bout is on Oct. 17 at Downsview Park, has been flooded with calls from wannabe players as buzz grows for Whip It!, Drew Barrymore's film about a Texas league. The movie premiered at TIFF in September.
You don't have to be young or fit to try out, Brabant says. The rigorous training program will whip you into shape.
The hour-long games require sustained effort. In each "jam," or round, players skate at breakneck speeds, trying to get ahead or block others' paths. (For complete rules, check out www.wftda.com/rules.)
Brabant stresses the need for a strong lower body and core. "You activate those muscles as soon as you put skates on."
A full-contact, high-intensity sport, roller derby is as tough and exhausting as hockey, says Brabant, a former hockey player and coach.
Despite the helmets, mouthguards, knee and elbow pads, injuries occur, though most are of the pulled muscle variety, he adds.
The coach recommends the standing hurdle stretch, to loosen the quadriceps and develop balance.
Stretches are best done once your muscles are warmed up. Players perform the stretch in skates, but start in sneakers if you feel unsteady. You can lean on a wall for added support.
Standing hurdle stretch
1. Stand up straight. Bend your right knee, bringing your heel towards your butt.
2. Grab your right ankle or foot with your right hand. Try to keep your knees close together.
3. Hold the stretch at least 10 seconds, then switch sides.
Toronto Star