Figure of 8

Alternative names: --
Objective: To practice being mindful of what’s going on around you; to practice skating smoothly and in control in chaotic situations.
Typical length of drill: 5-10 mins
Materials needed: None
Skill level required: This is non-contact, open to all levels.
Description: To skate in a figure of eight around the hall avoiding other skaters in the middle. The skaters form a long line. Then the one at the front starts to skate in one big figure of eight around the hall. All the other skaters follow. As the skaters approach the middle of the hall they have to identify the gap in the skaters traveling across them in which they wish to pass. The skaters need to speed up or slow down accordingly. Ironically speeding up to go through a gap is usually the best option as you will spend less time in the middle and therefore spend less time in someone else’s way.

Video:



Additional notes: During the dynamic stretching series we're sprinkling in some on skates drills to keep things mixed up.  This drill and video were recently submitted to All Derby Drills by Reckless Rowly of Helsinki Roller Derby.