Tag: #RollerDerbyLife

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Why Do I Always Freak Out Before a Bout?

A brain spiral in three acts.

Every single bout day, without fail, I go through it.

I’m driving to the rink. Gear packed, playlist blasting, probably already late. And my whole body is like nope. Full-body dread. The intrusive thoughts start spinning:
Why do I do this? I don’t wanna do this. I wish I wasn’t doing this.
Even though I’ve been looking forward to it all week. Even though I love Roller Derby. Even though I’m proud to wear my team colors and skate with my crew.

But for whatever reason, game day flips a switch in my brain and I start second-guessing everything. My skills. My role. My place. Myself.

And then… I start skating.
And suddenly, I’m fine.

More than fine. I’m alive in a way I forget I can be. Focused, feral, free. All the noise in my head falls away the second my wheels hit the track. It’s like flipping a light switch in the middle of a thunderstorm. Everything calms down, sharpens up, and makes sense again.

So what the hell is that about?

Turns out, I’m not alone.

That pre-bout spiral? It’s a thing. A super common thing. Here’s why it happens (and why it doesn’t mean you’re broken or secretly hate Derby):

1. Anticipatory Anxiety Is Loud AF

Before the game even starts, your body and brain are prepping for a big-deal event. Your nervous system doesn’t care that it’s fun. It knows stakes are high, people are watching, and you’re about to get hit and hit back. Cue adrenaline dump. Cue doubt. Cue panic.

2. Fight-Or-Flight Kicks In Early

On bout day, you’re basically gearing up for battle. That pre-skate feeling of dread? It’s your body trying to get ready. But with nowhere to funnel that energy yet, it just sits there and simmers into anxiety. The second you start moving, though? It finds its purpose. Game on.

3. Your Brain’s Just Being a Jerk

It throws every single insecurity at you on game day. “You’re not good enough. You’re not strong enough. You’re gonna let your team down.” Lies, all lies. But in the quiet moments before the whistle blows, those lies can get loud. Once you’re skating, they don’t stand a chance.

So what can you do about it?

Besides just riding it out (which, let’s be real, works), here are a few things I’m learning to try:

  • Pre-bout brain break: Listen to something dumb. Watch a funny reel. Talk about anything but the game. Get out of your own head for a minute.
  • Name it: When the spiral starts, I remind myself this is just the usual pre-bout freakout. That simple recognition actually helps calm it down.
  • Ground yourself: Before you gear up, take a few minutes to breathe. Touch your skates. Stretch. Feel your feet. Remind yourself you’re about to do something badass.
  • Anchor phrase: I like, “We hit people on purpose. Hell yeah.” But you do you.

This sport is intense. It asks a lot of you. And it gives a lot back. But not before your brain tries to trip you on the way out the door.

You’re not weird if you freak out before a bout. You’re just a skater.

And if you need someone to remind you of that before your next game, I’m right here. Freaking out in my car. Sipping electrolytes. Wondering why I do this.

And then lacing up.
And doing it anyway.

xoxo
-S

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The Aftermath of the Heel Hustle

My Toenails Have Entered Their Villain Era

Remember when I talked about surviving Firehouse Fatales in high heels? Yeah. Well. Turns out the story didn’t end when I took my shoes off.

I went to take off my toenail polish so I could redo it (because cute feet are forever, bruises be damned), and surprise: both of my big toenails were bruised. On one of them, the top layer of the nail peeled off completely with the polish.

I’ve lost these toenails before, so I know what that feels like. This isn’t that. Not yet, anyway. This is more like a horror short film called “Beauty Queen Feet: The Sequel You Didn’t Ask For.”

What actually happened?

It was the perfect storm.

High heels and a long day on my feet meant nonstop pressure. My feet slid forward in my shoes all day, pressing my big toes into the front of the toe box. That constant impact bruised the nail beds underneath.

Add to that the fact that I skate regularly. Between derby drills, edge work, and toe-stop starts, my feet take a beating even without the heels. Roller derby puts a ton of stress on the forefoot, and when you combine that with already-compromised nails, they don’t exactly stand a chance.

And I’ll be honest. I almost never let my toenails breathe. I always have polish on. So they were already dry, probably brittle, and definitely not ready for a 100-degree concrete catwalk moment.

The trauma pushed them over the edge, and when I went to remove the polish, the top layer of the nail peeled right off like it had been waiting for its final act.

Why this happens

This kind of injury is called a subungual hematoma, which is a bruise under the nail caused by pressure or repeated impact. When you cram your toes into tight shoes or take hard hits at the front of your foot (hello, skating and high heels), tiny blood vessels under the nail can rupture, causing a deep bruise. If the nail is already weakened from polish, trauma, or dehydration, it’s even more likely to lift, peel, or flake.

What I’m doing now

  • No polish for a bit. I’m giving my toes a chance to recover before I dress them back up.
  • I’m using a clear keratin nail repair treatment to reinforce the nail plate and protect new growth.
  • Epsom salt soaks and nail oil are officially part of my daily routine.
  • I’ve got open-toed shoes on deck for the foreseeable future and zero shame about it.

What might help next time

  • Rotate out of polish once in a while to let your nails breathe.
  • Trim your toenails short and smooth before any long day in heels or on skates.
  • Use anti-friction balm or even a small strip of moleskin on your big toes to reduce rubbing.
  • Look for heel grips or gel inserts that keep your foot from sliding forward in your shoes.
  • And if you’re skating on top of everything else, ice and magnesium are your friends.

Lessons from the battlefield

If you’re going full glam in vintage heels all day and also asking your feet to skate, sprint, squat, and recover, give them some credit. And give them a break. Especially if you, like me, have a long history of sacrificing your nail beds in the name of pinup glory.

Pain is temporary. Pretty feet are a full-time job.

xoxo
-S

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Beyond Hydration

How Electrolytes Support Skin, Anti-Aging, and Overall Wellness

When someone says “electrolytes,” what do you think of? If you’re like most people, your mind probably goes straight to sports drinks and hydration. I used to think of electrolytes only in terms of quenching thirst or getting through a tough workout. But in the last few years, I’ve discovered how essential they are for so much more than just hydration – especially when it comes to aging gracefully, caring for my skin, and feeling my best each day.

If you’re curious (like I was) about what electrolytes really do for us, here’s a look at why they’re worth more than a casual thought.

Electrolytes and Hydration – But It’s Not Just About Thirst

Yes, electrolytes are essential for hydration. They help your body absorb water effectively, so every cell can function at its best. Think of electrolytes as your body’s hydration management team – sodium, potassium, and magnesium all working together to keep your body’s water levels balanced. But here’s where it gets more interesting: by keeping every cell hydrated, electrolytes also play a role in the long game of skin health and aging.

Electrolytes and Skin Health: The Inside-Out Glow

Dehydrated skin is often one of the first signs of imbalanced electrolytes, and it’s not just about looking “dry.” When our skin loses moisture, it can feel tight, sensitive, or even start to lose its bounce. Personally, I noticed this most when my skin started looking dull despite all the serums and moisturizers I’d been using religiously. Adding electrolytes into my daily routine felt like a missing puzzle piece – like my skin was finally getting that deep, lasting hydration it craved.

Electrolytes help to maintain that delicate balance by allowing our cells to hold onto moisture. Potassium, for example, works to keep fluid inside the cells, while magnesium helps with water retention at a cellular level, so skin stays hydrated and smooth. So now, rather than feeling like I’m chasing a glow with products, I’m actually nourishing it from within.

The Anti-Aging Secret: Electrolytes for the Long Run

Now, I’m not saying electrolytes are the secret to eternal youth – but they do support some of the processes that keep us looking and feeling youthful. Magnesium, one of the superstar electrolytes, is a natural antioxidant that helps fight oxidative stress (the culprit behind those fine lines and wrinkles). Over time, supporting your body with a steady intake of magnesium and other electrolytes means you’re giving your skin the tools to combat daily stressors.

It’s like I’m investing in the future of my skin – staying hydrated, keeping cells happy, and supporting natural elasticity that otherwise tends to fade with age. While I’ll always love a good serum, there’s something empowering about knowing I’m nourishing my skin from the inside out.

Beyond Beauty: Electrolytes for Energy and Muscle Health

I started paying attention to electrolytes initially to support my energy levels, especially after long days or workouts. But over time, I’ve realized just how much they impact muscle health and recovery. If you’re someone who loves staying active, you know how frustrating it can be to feel sore and sluggish the next day. Electrolytes reduce muscle cramping, fatigue, and help prevent that “burned-out” feeling. I’ve noticed that on days when I’m consistent with electrolytes, I feel sharper, more energetic, and just… better.

Finding My Go-To: Why I Love LMNT

Not all electrolyte supplements are created equal, and after trying more than a few, I found LMNT. What really drew me to LMNT was their no-nonsense approach – no sugars, no fillers. It’s just pure electrolytes, in a balance that works. It’s great for a hot day, a tough workout, or even just those days when I need a little extra boost. And honestly, the flavors are surprisingly good, which doesn’t hurt!

So, if you’re on the fence, or maybe like I was, just assuming electrolytes are only for sports drinks, try it. I think of electrolytes as my little daily investment in feeling good, looking fresh, and keeping my body balanced from within.

Final Thoughts: Electrolytes are more than a quick fix. They’re a way to support yourself, to keep each cell in your body happy, and to feel your best, no matter what the day brings. Whether it’s for skin, energy, or just taking care of yourself, they’re worth a spot in your routine.

And if you’re curious, I wholeheartedly recommend giving LMNT a try. I actually reached out to LMNT personally about a potential sponsorship for my roller derby team, and they were incredibly generous. They sent my team a big batch of their product, completely free, to keep us hydrated and ready for every practice and game for quite a while. Knowing a brand like LMNT is willing to support grassroots communities like ours just made me trust them even more. It’s one small change that can lead to a world of difference – both on and off the track!

xoxo
-S

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The Importance of Keeping Your Derby Gear Clean and Sanitary

Roller derby is a high-intensity, full-contact sport, and we all know that with full contact comes sweat, tons of it. Whether you’re jamming, blocking, or taking hits, your gear gets drenched in sweat, making it the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. While the smell of your gear may seem like a badge of honor, regularly cleaning it is crucial, not just for odor control but also for health and longevity. Let’s break down why maintaining your derby gear is so important and explore different methods to keep it clean, fresh, and functional.

Why You Need to Keep Your Gear Clean

When you think of your gear as armor, it’s easy to focus on the protection it offers from falls, hits, and bruises. But dirty gear can cause more harm than you might realize. Here are a few key reasons why regular cleaning is non-negotiable:

Health Risks: Sweat left to dry inside your pads, helmet, and gear can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria. This bacteria can cause skin irritation, rashes, fungal infections, and even more serious conditions like staph infections or MRSA. Given the close physical contact in roller derby, it’s essential to ensure your gear is not contributing to spreading harmful germs among teammates or opponents.

Odor Control: That signature “derby funk” is not just annoying, it’s a sign that bacteria has taken over your gear. Funky smells mean bacteria are thriving in your sweat-soaked pads. The stench can become overwhelming, especially if you stuff your gear into a bag after practice and forget about it. Keeping things clean helps eliminate the bacteria causing the smell, giving you fresher gear and a happier nose.

Extending Gear Life: Sweat, dirt, and grime break down the materials in your gear over time. By regularly cleaning and maintaining your pads, helmet, and skates, you’ll extend their lifespan, saving you money in the long run.

How Often Should You Clean Your Gear?

The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you skate and how sweaty you get during practice or games. As a general rule, aim to air out your gear after every session and wash it at least once a month. If you’re skating several times a week or participating in intense training, you might want to increase the frequency.

Different Ways to Clean Your Derby Gear

Now that we understand why clean gear is important, let’s dive into different cleaning methods. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for cleaning derby gear. Different skaters have different preferences based on convenience, materials, and how much time they want to spend. Here are a few methods that work well:

1. The Washing Machine Method (my favorite; though I’ve been known to put them in the dishwasher as well)

One of the easiest and most effective ways to clean your gear is by tossing it in the washing machine. Pads (elbows, knees, wrist guards) and helmet liners can generally handle a wash, though always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before doing this.

Here’s a simple step-by-step:

Step 1: Place your gear (pads, guards, and liners) in a laundry bag or, as I like to do, in an old pillowcase. Knot the end to keep everything contained, and it prevents unnecessary wear and tear from the machine’s spin cycle.

Step 2: Use cold water and a mild detergent, and set your machine to a gentle cycle. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can affect the breathability and material of your gear.

Step 3: When it’s time to dry, avoid tossing the gear into the dryer. Instead, I prefer to knot the end of the pillowcase and shut it in the dryer door. This way, the heat from the dryer helps dry the gear without it being tumbled around. If you don’t want to use a dryer, air drying in a ventilated area is always a good option.

2. The Hand-Washing Method

If you’re concerned about machine washing, or your gear has delicate components, hand washing is a more controlled and gentle method. This approach is perfect for when you need to clean specific items like helmet liners or skates that require more care.

Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Fill a tub or sink with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent or a sports-specific cleaner.

Step 2: Submerge your pads and gently agitate the water to remove dirt, grime, and sweat. Pay extra attention to straps, Velcro, and high-contact areas.

Step 3: Rinse the gear thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.

Step 4: Squeeze out as much excess water as possible without twisting or wringing the material, which could cause damage.

Step 5: Air dry your gear by laying it flat or hanging it in a well-ventilated area.

3. Spray and Wipe Method

If you’re short on time or don’t want to fully wash your gear after every session, using a disinfectant spray can help keep bacteria and odors at bay in between washes. This method is convenient but should be used in conjunction with regular deep cleaning.

Here’s a quick process:

Step 1: After skating, immediately air out your gear. Don’t leave it trapped in your gear bag, as bacteria thrive in moist, dark environments.

Step 2: Use a sports-specific disinfectant spray or a homemade solution (mix equal parts water and white vinegar, and add a few drops of tea tree oil for its antibacterial properties).

Step 3: Spray down your pads, skates, and helmet, paying special attention to the inside of your helmet and the areas around straps.

Step 4: Let everything dry thoroughly before putting it back in your gear bag.

4. The Freezer Method

For those really trying to banish bacteria without water, the freezer method might sound unconventional, but it’s a favorite among athletes. This approach helps kill off bacteria that cause odor, and while it’s not a replacement for washing, it’s a great interim solution.

Here’s how:

Step 1: Place your gear (pads, wrist guards, and helmet liners) in a plastic bag or pillowcase.

Step 2: Put the bag in your freezer for 24 to 48 hours. The cold will kill off a significant portion of the bacteria causing the smell.

Step 3: Air out your gear once you remove it from the freezer.

This method is particularly effective for removing odor, though you should still wash your gear periodically.

Special Attention for Helmets and Skates

Helmets and skates are trickier to clean than pads, but they still need regular maintenance.

Helmets: Remove the liner and wash it according to the manufacturer’s instructions (most liners are machine-washable or hand-washable). For the helmet itself, use disinfecting wipes or a gentle cleaner to wipe down the interior and exterior. Ensure the helmet is fully dry before using it again.

Skates: Your skates can accumulate grime, sweat, and dirt, especially after outdoor sessions. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and clean the insoles regularly. If the insoles are removable, consider washing them in cold water and letting them air dry. Also, give the wheels and bearings some TLC. Cleaning and maintaining these components is essential for peak performance.

Long-Term Benefits of Clean Gear

Maintaining clean and sanitary gear has benefits that go beyond avoiding skin infections and foul odors. Clean gear:

  • Lasts longer: Regularly removing sweat and bacteria prevents the materials from breaking down prematurely.
  • Performs better: Dirty gear can stiffen, making it less comfortable and less effective. Clean, supple gear moves with your body, offering better protection and flexibility.
  • Keeps you focused: When you don’t have to worry about discomfort or irritation from dirty gear, you can stay focused on the game.

Final Thoughts: Clean Gear, Clean Mind

Skating in fresh, clean gear gives you the peace of mind to focus on the track, knowing you’re protecting your health and the health of your teammates. Whatever cleaning method works best for you, the key is consistency. Keep your gear clean, and you’ll not only stay safer, you’ll perform better and feel more confident every time you hit the track.t only stay safer, you’ll perform better and feel more confident every time you hit the track.

So, #DoItDerby: Clean your gear, and roll into your next practice with confidence!

xoxo
-S
aka Your Royal Thighness Scrapperella