Too Scared to Roller Skate!? Here is the deal ...

[@amyb2449]

You're our skating fairy godmother 💫

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

Awwww I love that!

[@LiccaLaNouba]

OMG exactly how I feel! Thank you Deborah! Love from a very fearful beginner from Brazil 🇧🇷 ♥️

[@caotyca]

Totally there, ty for what you do! Your videos are helping me to learn how to skate! Greetings from argentina!

[@alejandraespinosa9030]

Omg yess

[@Cory381]

Fr❤️

[@BewareOfKillerPie]

As someone who struggles with anxiety, its hard for me to tell when I really need to be afraid and when it's just my mind acting up. Thanks for sharing this advice! Its definitely important to not let your mind run wild. I was getting anxious at the park last week and it lead to an injury, I was defiently more in my head than my body. During my time off from skating I'm working on calming my mind so I can get back to the park and be safe and get even bettter!

[@Sarah-tr5je]

Hello fellow anxiety skater person!! That's always my challenge, just in life in general. When is it anxiety disorder stuff and when is it my intuition going "no this is a terrible thing for real"?

[@hollywood5703]

It seems if you’re anxious then perhaps you are pushing yourself too fast and aren’t ready. Maybe you don’t have the strength yet.

[@alilovesbeads1446]

My aim is to skate freely like that and I know with with perseverance we will get there

[@alilovesbeads1446]

I think you have to be positive and perserver there's been many times in the last 6 weeks I could of gone nope and gone sat down but I didn't and while skating that confidence does come back everytime for me just a little bit more and im not the best yet still mechanic but I feel pumped iv skated around the rink everyone at the rinks praises me and that uplifts me iv achieved something that 2 weeks ago i couldn't do

[@gamercat7004]

I have issues with anxiety and times i struggle with physical feelings like i feel dizzy and i get anxiously when moving and the feeling of being fast and get so tense of panic while in the rink.

[@mizbre989]

I was paying attention until I started watching her skates glide so gracefully and got hypnotized 😂

[@Ryan-my8wj]

lmao glad i wasn't the only one who thought that

[@mizbre989]

Yea i was gone lol!!!

[@Aranur]

Same I was like I wanna be on that level like she was floating

[@strothermartin5368]

@@Aranur Me too

[@mizbre989]

@Aranur exactly lol!

[@magnolia2]

Oh Dirty Deborah, how did you know we needed this right now?! My brand new skates have been in the box for over a month now untouched and unlaced. I’ve been trying to allegedly build up the courage to put them on and get out! I needed these words of encouragement because summer’s almost over!!! 🌞😌♥️✨

[@Aranur]

Honey skate in the fall and in the winter skating isnt just summer only and I dont know where your at but the rinks may or may not be open where your at if they are go skate in the rink. :D

[@miasma815]

You don't even need to go out to get started! I used to find it hard to skate when I thought I had to go somewhere to do it. So I arranged a small space in my bedroom that I use for skating on most days. I can have a 5-minute skate or a 45-minute skate in that tiny area but I've still learned so much! And now it's also easier to go out to skate, I usually go out one or two days a week and other days I skate in my bedroom.

[@magnolia2]

Aranur Thank youuu! I’m in Connecticut so the winters are harsh. We unfortunately just have a plethora of ice skating rinks here. I plan on skating at an indoor basketball court whenever I need more space. I put 4x4ft wooden mat in my living room. I just need to control the fears, put them on and skate. It’s been 15 years since I’ve skated.🙊🤣

[@magnolia2]

cesternino That is sooo true! That’s what I was hesitant about before, actually going out. I put 4x4ft wooden mat in my living room because it’s a carpeted apartment. I got it for working out and dancing and it’s been great. So I’m building up the courage to put them on and skate indoors and head out soon. Thanks so much for the encouragement!!!♥️

[@Crystal-dr2xi]

Put your skates on and see how fast your wheels are. Once you've got that tighten or loosen and get gear. I was a bit of the same and lost my stopper on my 2nd time out. Hadn't skated outside in over 25 yrs. It's doable but you gotta practice and I would recommend protective gear. I took a two falls thus far and the 1st left me bruised for 3 wks (it was without gear which made me get gear). Pray, practice and pray.

[@foolgazer]

I used to be interested in roller skating years ago but never got into it because I was afraid of injuries. but then last year I got ill and ended up losing my ability to walk and all quality of life, expecting to be in a wheelchair until I died. i promised myself if I ever miraculously got better, I'd take up skating as a gift to myself because life is meant to be enjoyed through risk taking. a couple months ago I regained the ability to walk, and a few days ago I started skating :) it feels like the start to a much more beautiful, freeing life. the fear of taking risks has dissipated after having experienced losing everything. because now I know that no matter how hard it gets, I can handle it!! go be silly and live adventurously yall, your life deserves it.

[@dragonmaster5983]

No, you don't ramble. Every word from you is helpful. Thank you for today's pep talk. Its very much appreciated.

[@TheNormalOddball]

This was the only thing holding me back. I was so tired of people saying just do it that's how I did it. That's doesn't work for me

[@ninathomson1735]

Yeah that isn’t helpful is it? I’ve managed to put skates on the last 3 days after owning my skates for about a year. Pushing past the anxiety and also accepting that even only doing a few minutes is ok but doing even that daily will help

[@Bones469]

Male Early 50s. Ok... I did it... I went skating yesterday. Over 50, overweight, have not skated at all in about 20 yeaes and not successfully for nearly 35 years. It was scary but the skate rental guys at the rink encouraged me when they I saw I could at least stand. Now after a wobbly and scary lap or two, I was done... I wanted to quit BUT the skate rental guy suggested I try the wheel-walker deal and simply told me to try not to rely on it too much. WOW! Within about three laps, I was cruising, way faster than I thought I would. I was loving gaining speed into the turns and finding that "edge", kind of like on a motorcycle, holding that walker thing out with a single hand more like a dance partner than a crutch as I tried to bank or lean into the turns. It felt like I was FLYING! Within about 15 or 20 minutes I was able to dodge wipeouts and kiddos that would carelessly dart out onto the floor. I did a few more laps without the walker deal but they were still pretty slow and clunky but did show some improvement. All in all with or without the walker, I did NOT totally fall, not even once, through I did have a few spastic close calls😂. My take away.... My first time back.. Though I have lost a freaking lot of weight since last July I still feel heavy on wobbly wheels. So even though I am 65 pounds lighter than what I was before, I still need to lose more. I'm guessing another 40 to 50 pounds and I will be in excellent shape for skating. The next thing is, skating is a damn hard workout when you do not know what you are doing! I do serious workouts in the gym about 3 to 5 times per week. I do weights and high intensity Zumba for cardio weightloss. The workout I got in my legs and even my core surpassed even my most serious 'leg-days' of lunges, squats curls and extensions. I think because the music and having fun - kind of.... or being distracted, the workout sneaks up on you. I can do serious laps swimming and not feel that zapped. SO.... if you are older and maybe a bit out of shape, make sure you hydrate, maybe even take a sweat rag because I was sweating from every pore. In all, I did about 2 hours and probably drank half a gallon of liquids to get caught up. Will I do it again? Well... I came home and ordered a pair of starter skates since I could not find men's 11s anywhere around here. My wife said she wants to try too so we went back out and bought a pair off Facebook Market Place that were a perfect fit and nearly brand new for 30 bucks. As for the wheely-walker deal... I am not sure if that is recommended or not BUT for someone that skated as a child, it gave me that little bit of extra confidence I needed to get some speed and have a blast. Don't get me wrong, it was still more scary than riding motorcycles for me but fun enough to allow the roller skating bug to bite. Once my new skates come I am hoping to supplement my gym and intermittent fasting to reach and maintain my health goals. I am pretty sure I have fallen out of that 'prediabetic' range but still have quite aways on the journey and now I realize more than ever the importance of "playing" for healthy weight maintenance. I have already been hiking and swimming, now if I can get some proficiency back skating, later I may also pick up decent bicycle and try that but it's cold here in the winter and Classic Skating could be really fun I think. They told me sometimes they do late night 80s music from 12 until 2... that is just my style... lol😅

[@gabriellls1145]

I must say, the camera-person is absolutely amazing! I could never follow Dirty Deb so perfectly the way they do!

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

@rollielocks is sooooooooooooooo good. I switch directions all the time without notice or reason. She is amazing at predicting the moves I will make. I tell her what I am going to do and then do something completely different!

[@karla9319]

My biggest fear in skating is falling flat on my face and breaking my nose/teeth 😔

[@smoran6579]

Me too I can't get over that

[@intellectualrebel5340]

Got my nose broken twice, once I fell as a kid and once I took that indoor rock-hard football in my face and I'm totaly alright. (Just wanna point out MY experience. I'm not trying to make fun of you or invalidate your fear, just saying that getting your nose broken is like totaly not the end of the world, so don't stress about it and don't let it hold you back. It's totally ok to be scared. Just here to tell you that it actually doesn't hurt that bad, it bleeds some and your eyes water A LOT, but you'll be alright real soon-pretty much as soon bleeding stops). On the side note, contrary to the popular belief, if you hurt your nose don't lay on the back, it doesn't make the blood "dissapear" it makes it flow backwards and you can choke on it. Lean forward until it stops! Yeah, it doesn't look cool, but you'll be safe!

[@user-xn3rs7tu5w]

I’ve hit my nose real hard before, it mainly stings a bit and your eyes start watering, but overall it’s not the worst thing! You can’t let that hold you back one bit! Also, I skate, and I can tell you as long as you play your cards right, it’s very unlikely you’ll fall flat on your face. I’m not gonna tell you it won’t happen, because it’s possible, but you should be prepared for this scenario mentally and do it anyway! You’ll find your fears are much more manageable the more you let your body explore! PS: the nose injury was not from skating, it was during a basketball game 😉

[@hollywood5703]

Snowboard padded shorts, wrist guards, and a football helmet with mouth guard. Now you can learn in peace! 🙂

[@karla9319]

@@hollywood5703 you’re so right

[@aaronbruceladner1983]

When the Corona Virus Stuff is Over, The Fountain Valley Skating Center Shall Return with More Power than Any Other Skating Rink in the Universe! ❤️

[@ectovampz]

I so wish to visit there but here in texas is so small but really soon I'll be that place soon!

[@1980keu]

Aaron Ladner agreed, I want to come from Wisconsin to skate in it!

[@JenniferHamleyTV]

So true! We have plans to fly from the UK to visit!!! Can't wait to skate FVSC ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

[@sarames9256]

I’m anxiously waiting 😭😭😭😭

[@psg6065]

I am three-ish months into learning and the fear never goes away- I noticed I have days my flow is on pointe and other days where my legs are a bit shakier-however I find that what counteracts it for me is the confidence I've built from practicing everyday AT MY OWN PACE and just loving skating and trying to get better and not rushing the process. It's funny what you say about FLOW- I'll build it, fall/lose it, get back up, and try and find that FLOW again. Thank you for the video

[@shimmypolkaroo]

Deborah. You. Are. AMAZING. 💯🆒️ I'm highly introverted and everything you have described is the way I process learning to roller skate. I need time to get those 3 aspects in alignment. It's not fear that hinders me so much as the absence of knowing what to do. Once I have researched what to do, my emotions move into excitement and then I can come to an agreement with my body to act. Roller skating is a really good activity for me because it combines both introverted and extroverted abilities. I get to be in tune with my body and skates while being social with others. If I'm needing a moment by myself, I can just skate around alone for a minute or two and no one thinks it odd. This is why finding your channel first was a blessing to me. You always give permission to understand first what we're about to do. We don't have to "just do it". Also, I don't think you ramble. I think you explain things very well for those of us who prefer more detailed information. Keep it up, we're out here and we appreciate it.❤ Thank you very much, Deborah 🥰🤗

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

Awww thank you so much. I am so happy to read your feedback!!! Keep rolling!!

[@shimmypolkaroo]

@@Dirtydeborahharry Thank you!! 💗❤💗❤🥰🤗

[@tylaperrin1135]

Thank you SO much! I’m 41 and haven’t skated for well over 25 years. I’ve wanted to start again for years but always talked myself out of it; fear of injury, looking silly, all the usual. My mum died unexpectedly last year and it’s really given me some perspective and as cheesy as it sounds to say life is short I finally decided to try things that I want to do rather than be envious of those that DO! I only got my skates week ago and found your videos - it’s still very “Bambi on ice” for me but your instructional videos have been amazing! Managed to skate most of the afternoon up and down a local seafront today, and am now exhausted but very happy! Need to use my left leg more (! I’m more confident on my right so get a bit one sided!) but I’m determined to carry on now - such a great way to keep for and it is good for my mind too! Thank you! If I’m ever in America I’m soooo coming to your rink! 😊

[@ASMRTingledPink]

Great job! I will be 56 this year. And like you, haven't skated in decades. But I am so driven to try it again. I ordered some skates and am so excited! But also quite terrified. I also ordered all the safety gear because I am really afraid of falling, and want to at least have some protection. But it is so encouraging when I see comments from older people who are also doing this! It gives me hope that I will be able to do it. Thank you for commenting on this. I will be thinking about you and others who are skating, when I finally get my skates and try it again. 🥰

[@bernice6982]

She is the best teacher ever

[@monalouise6996]

I’m 54 and just beginning the journey in this sport. I’m loving it and looking forward to what this new season brings. Your videos are very specific, intentional and extremely helpful. Thank you!!!

[@attilahsistrunk61]

I am 51 and was wondering is my age to old to learn. Seeing your message and this video gave me a little confidence to try it. How is skating at 54?? Is it harder because of your age tell me more?

[@ASMRTingledPink]

Yay! I am so happy to see your comment. I will be 56 this year and am about to start trying to skate again after decades of not doing it. It makes me so happy to see other people my age that are skating. I thought I was nuts for even thinking about it! But there is something inside of me that is so driven to try. I can't wait for my skates to arrive! 🥰

[@anthonyrobertson2011]

​@@ASMRTingledPinkI'm 57 and almost 6 months ago started ice skating again after 20 years. Used to roller skate lots in high school and typical college age years. Did some ice skating too. I went three times a week, sessions one and a half hours. It took me almost five months but I finally feel very comfortable on ice skates now. I think what really helped was just doing basics even though I could already skate forwards and backwards. I tried learning lemons and half pushes (swizzles) and all that they use to get brand new skaters moving. I think that actually helped so much, even though I had no real reason to do those. My point, just do it, try the beginner exercises, just do things different with your feet. I'm in good shape, no movement problems, basically can do what I could at tweety. So unless you have a hip problem or something physically wrong I see no way being 60 would be a problem learning or getting back into it. My age has not affected my abilities, so far, that I can tell. Just had to get used to floor moving past me like that again and people wizzing around me. Now no problem at all. Even had a guy who came back after summer break ask me how I got so good so fast. My answer. Time on ice and trying new things from youtube videos. Before all I could do was backward and foreward skating. Now I can stop, glide on one foot (forwards) and forward crossovers in normal skating direction. Plus all those swizzle type exercises.

[@ASMRTingledPink]

@@anthonyrobertson2011 that's fantastic! I've been trying for 3 months now. But with no rink to skate at, have to skate outdoors. But there aren't any parking lots or tennis/basketball courts here either. So all I have as options are some really rough and beat up concrete surfaces. And that's where I'm having trouble. As soon as I start to move forward, my skates get caught up on that rough surface and I trip and almost fall. And I'm using the proper 78a wheels that are for outdoors. But can't get going. It's been so frustrating. I have yet to actually skate in all these months. I keep trying but when I trip up and nearly fall, I panic and stop. But I still want to skate so bad. I am documenting my "progress" on my vlog channel, so I can hopefully look back at some point and see how far I've come. But at this point, it's not very far at all. 😕 But I'm not giving up! 🙂🛼🛼

[@angelhoegarden]

​@@ASMRTingledPinkhow is it going so far? I try to sktae for 2nd time in my life and I have the same problem with sticking to the ground with tight wheels and moving a little, because if i relax them more I'm afraid I will fly...

[@fsponsy8004]

I was just searching for a video about fear and roller skating the other day and couldn't find much. I was so happy to see you post this today! Your pep talk videos are always so helpful and comforting, you're the skating den mother we all need!

[@saoirse_flies]

Moxi has a great video where Roller Goolie (I think her real name is Carly?) talks about fear. She's adorable and such a badass skater, so it was really encouraging to hear her discuss her experiences of fear and skating.

[@rowdybliss]

Behold... The Skater Whisperer. ❤️ Thank you so much for this.

[@alexjamesau]

Wow. I REEEEEALLY needed to hear this! I'm 3 weeks into skating (just in my street, my town is in lockdown at the moment) and I genuinely thought I was going a bit mental with all these things bubbling up in my mind while I'm skating. I'm starting to get over the fear part and really relax when skating forward, but the moment I go to try something new that fear is back and I feel kinda pathetic. Thank you SO MUCH, this has really reassured me that what I am feeling is normal. I'm having heaps of fun on this journey already, but learning to push through the fear and being able to express myself...that's the ultimate goal. Can't wait to get to that point. You're the best Deb!! Big love from Melbourne, Australia.

[@ninathomson1735]

4 days into my skating, also in Melbourne. Hopefully see you out there with our new skills post-lockdown

[@jaynebuda9409]

Thanks Dirty. You're my skate whisperer! 🛼

[@lokeylady25]

Honey you’ve got soul and rhythm!! Love watching you skate!

[@KiMoKo9787]

To everyone struggling with the fear and being in public and the like.. laugh. Laugh big and freaking loud when you fall or trip yourself up! It helps keeps the confidence to get back up and it helps you brush it off :)

[@blui.0737]

I’ve actually been terrified to skate outside lately and literally watching this made me feel so much better- I mean I have the ability to skate inside and be myself a bit but going outside to skate on hybrid wheels and good skates, I get absolutely terrified because of all the things that could happen but now this really helped me- :) thank youuuuuu

[@eeelizzz]

That was me today outdoors. I was almost paralyzed. I'm on week 1 of learning.

[@christinefears5309]

Before lockdown I had started ice skating occasionally with a friend and loved it - no fear at all. I wasn't great, but could get round the rink at a reasonable pace, turn corners, built confidence and didn't fall. So I thought I would transition to skates during lockdown easily - I did *not* expect to be overwhelmed by fear the minute I stood up the first time! There's something much scarier about being outdoors, with more trip hazards and rough surfaces and feeling very watched - although I'm sure nobody really cares about the wobbly skater falling over at the end of the street really. I'll keep calm, breathe and count...

[@itslindss]

Fear holds me back so much despite having so many amazing skaters telling me I’ll be fine. Thank you for taking about this!

[@mzurilovebeautyfragranceslove]

Debbie says “Don’t let anyone keep you from restarting and skating again” that’s so perfect!! Love it ♥️🙌🏽

[@kailamiura6105]

Ahh perfect timing 😦 I have watched all your videos while waiting for my skates to arrive. It’s been about a week into my skating journey. feel super discouraged right now cuz I thought I was gonna pick it up easier and of course, I’m watching all these other people online kill it on skates. Thank you for the reminder and pep talk!

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

Please know that some skills will be very difficult and some will come to you very easily sooooo ... don't quit!!!!!!!!!!

[@Ophelia11]

A lot of skaters on KZbin are more about showing off and less about keeping it real. That's why Debbie is my main go-to for skating info. She's the only one who really takes the time to empathize with beginners and lets us know that it's ok to just SKATE, without all the fancy tricks.

[@minniealcocer6247]

My skates will arrive today (hopefully) I always wanted to learn how to skate, on my teen years I managed to move around on skates but never advance more then very beginner, am 50 now 😰 and don’t want to die not knowing how to skate, I couldn’t swim either but I learned to swim about two-three years ago when I discovered I was just afraid of deep waters, am still are but I started swimming where I feel comfortable, so skating is my next challenge 💁🏻‍♀️

[@LeoVerRosa]

I needed that rambling pep talk. I am 39 years old and I've never rollerskated in my life. Thank you. I appreciate you.

[@sardine1324]

Thank you so much deb! I started skating a week ago (outside), and while your videos have been really helpful, I kept getting upset because I felt like I wasn't improving at all. This video was a great motivator!

[@suzanneburleson274]

Oooooh Dirty Deb- how did you know how much we needed this?! You are magic and skating is your ministry! I and obviously a millions others appreciate your kind, loving spirit SO much! It’s about skating and SO much more to me!

[@bluemorpho2.0]

Wish you knew how much you help me. Sending love!

[@lauraslekis3628]

Thank you for this and all your videos. I am learning very much with you. I'm 32 years old and I am just learning to skate now. Thanks!! Greetings from Uruguay!!

[@peachguava]

This video makes me feel like I'm not the only one! I have a hard time getting over the fear, but this video gave me some good pointers

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

You can do it Ashley! Just make a very simple plan and breathe :)

[@peachguava]

Just saw ur response on my way to go practice skating its a sign lol 😆

[@Catalinalepe149]

I love you so much Deb! I have such fear of my skates, they stare me down everyday!!!! I just need to get out there, thank you for your videos!

[@maanaimak]

This is the one to watch after the ones about falling😃 faith restored! Smooth peptalk, thanks😎❤️

[@claypigin]

I just skated 2 miles and it’s completely thanks to you!

[@brianirish3095]

WOW....I really needed this! Thank you for putting in perspective ALL the exact things that are going through my mind as I attempt to learn how to skate for the very 1st time at 62.

[@HausofHair_Orlando]

Might I add, you are so smooth on those skates🙌🏿🙌🏿🙌🏿🙌🏿🙌🏿🙌🏿

[@MsNaijaPrincess]

This was like a therapy session + roller skates 💖

[@yukikotatsuyo255]

This video really helps, once i tried searching videos of overcoming fear but the youtubers didn't say anything of how to overcome but I really glad you posted this video to overcome fear because that's what happens when I roller skate thank you so much for this video Dirty Deborah. 🥰

[@amandahuggenkissxo5360]

I just saw this in my feed and have to say I love seeing rolling skating making a comeback! It brings back so many great memories. '77-'79, Friday nights, all of my friends and our school mates LIVED at the roller rink. Disco balls, great music, dancing, holding hands, not a care in the world, other than looking cool, wearing cute clothes that would look so rad under blacklight, and trying not to fall. Earning money anyway possible, babysitting, doing chores and yardwork, returning pop bottles, anything! Just for Friday night at Wheel-a-While!!! wootwoot, NorthDakota, represent, with green and white pompoms!! Favorite songs to skate to were Born to Be Alive and anything by Donna Summer, and of course, Deborah Harry! Kiss had great rock n roll songs, for fast skate, as well as Beth, for the slow couples skate, with the lights down low. Holding hands was a big deal, and maybe your first kiss by the big pile of coats at the end of the night!! Such great times and memories. Check out this playlist from 1979 to see the variety of music we were blessed with! Thanks for sharing your encouraging video! It is inspiring! I hope to see more!! That is a really beautiful skating rink, too! en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billboard_Year-End_Hot_100_singles_of_1979

[@amandahuggenkissxo5360]

And Blondie Heart of Glass, was #1 at that time, too!👍❤💜💚

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

This description of skating at the rink in the the late 1970's is so accurate. Every single rink was just like this! Even your description of pop bottles, baby sitting and holding hands. A magical time in life :)

[@jewpanese]

I haven’t been on skates in probably 25 years. Just ordered my first pair of skates and am ready to try again! I will definitely be checking out all of your videos. This one was so helpful 😊

[@eclecticcreativekate4950]

Thank you so much for this! Your videos help so much, especially when I'm losing confidence with skating! Fear/self consciousness is the main thing that holds me back, this video made me want to put my skates on immediately :D

[@kaleema1987]

Very empowering! ❤

[@alissalima8626]

thank you so much for this video! I just started roller skating, I’m ALWAYS scared but I keep practicing and I try to do everything you teach. You’re an amazing teacher! Thank you 💞

[@drzeus9449]

You are so right about rhythmic head chant blocking out fear. I suddenly became afraid to fly. But I live in a different country from my family so that's no good! Then on approaches, I'd start saying in my head ''Please lord keep us safe'' over and over until wheels touched down. Eventually i stopped being afraid of flying, now i don't have to do that. Just got to sort out my out of condition body - there's a downside to being skinny, no natural padding! I'm terrified something is going to crack when i hit the floor. So I'm focusing on getting some strength and suppleness before i get on my skates in a couple of months. And practising falling😁 At least i am past the age of giving a hoot what anyone thinks as i flail about (50+)! You are such an inspiration for girls and women! Thank you!

[@halielynne1320]

I started skating over quarantine and I was doing great and managing my fear! I was practicing in a parking lot and doing awesome - super comfortable with forward skating, started backwards skating and transitions. But then my boyfriend and I tried a trail - for some reason my fear immediately took back over. I couldn’t understand why. I lost all ability to skate ! And then I fell pretty bad. I haven’t skated again since but I will soon. I am traumatized!

[@tiffanyx8577]

Thank you so much for this video. I keep crying after I fall even though it doesn’t hurt. This up up up is so helpful to get over my emotional baggage. Thank you for this Dirty 💚

[@blissfulbudgets7415]

New subscriber here! Thank you for this! When I was a teenager, I spent every single weekend at the rink. Sometimes both Friday and Saturday nights. I could skate fast, and backwards, and spin and do the limbo and all sorts of fun stuff. Fast forward 18 years and quite a few more pounds🤣 and I finally bought another pair of skates after taking my kids to the rink last weekend. It reminded me of how much fun I used to have and I just had to try skating again. I strapped my skates on tonight and I can still skate but I was very wobbly and my body was so tense. I know it’s because of the fear of falling. I’m afraid to seriously hurt myself now that I’m older. I stumbled across your page and watching these videos is making me more confident. I hope to get back to where I was someday, I have a good feeling that your videos will help. 🙂

[@danielleoren1828]

I've always been scared of roller skates and it's why I want to learn so this is perfect. The closest rink to me is 140 miles away though, so I will be skating the neighborhood.

[@jasielberg3768]

Just discovered you & your channel the other day. Like many others, I am new to roller skating! Went on my 3rd ride yesterday and felt *all* of this fear so hard! I wanted to cry. Thank you for the video and inspiration!

[@sommer447]

Ever since I was recommended your videos I knew I wanted to get back into roller skating. I have been skating atleast once a week for the past couple months and I’ve gotten pretty good, I learned to backwards skate and I even bought my first pair of skates. I’m glad I’m rolled skating again.

[@klisher]

Nice to see you passed on what I told you about thinking don’t fall. Tells you to actually fall. 👍👍👍👍 😀

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

Yep!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I listen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you so much. I wished I could have remember your name specifically as your comment was so powerful to me. I was once told to never read comments but I thought that was crazy. I learn from my students every single day during every single lesson and now through the comments. I welcome any of your other insights.

[@klisher]

Dirty School of Skate thanks. I do have more for another day ( middle of heatwave in Uk. We don’t do hot, or cold come to think of it, or dry, or wet or windy 😂😂) I’ll get back to you in a couple of days. 😀👍 all the best.

[@miahchua]

This is exactly how I felt during yesterday! Lol.

[@arieswaters]

Thanks!

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

😀😀😀😀😀😀😀

[@deannap5884]

This video is everything! The fear struggle is real but I'm pushing through it and will take what you've said in this video and put it into practice. Thanks Dirty D, you are really making my "learn to skate" journey at 45yrs of age so much more fun and easier

[@tinachandler3091]

I've been a veteran skater, former derby but had to leave the sport due to health. I also worked the best jobs ever, a skate guard and skating carhop at Sonic. With this dam Covid, I haven't skated since early March. I FINALLY got my skates on Sunday. Holy crap, all that you talked about came up. I broke my dam tailbone and locked skates with a friend and slammed face first into a concrete floor in the past and got back out there. Sunday...I got terrified. Scared the hell out of. I finally kept saying "you got this BREATHE!" Over and over again. I remembered I said things like that when I taught skating. I got through it And I ordered larger knee pads and got on the DDP yoga website Thanks for the words of encouragement. I'm going to tag your video because we all need those words of encouragement from an outside self

[@kimberlyrogers3879]

Thank you so much for this video! I used to love to skate at the rink and decided it was time to do it again. The fear of people laughing at you can be overwhelming. Having your videos has truly helped me become a better, more motivated skater ❤️💯. Keep posting!!!

[@HeatherMarie.Fitness-Dance]

This was everything I needed to hear today and will keep on my saved playlist lol! I too have been watching your videos and am about a month in.. I used to skate as a kid, but lost it... fast forward, I have been training in Dance for the past 20yrs and feel how that absolutely supports skating!!! I can’t wait to express myself on skates the way I can off skates!! I tell myself at least 20min a day and most of the time it’s longer 🤩🥳!! The progress is slow but I definitely see improvements each time I lace up 🥰😍 Your guidance is absolute GOLD! I love your spirit, your energy, your style and attitude! Thanks for sharing your light mama! I hope to meet you one day! Stay safe out there! Xo

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

I can feel your excitement from this comment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So awesome!!!

[@HeatherMarie.Fitness-Dance]

Yesss I’m so stoked and determined to look like a real freakin skater one day Lol!! I just got some new wheels to get my dance on inside my living room! Wohooooo

[@21011ahh]

I love your videos so much! I just started skating a month ago. It sounds silly but the thing I have the hardest time with is literally just standing still. Being able to stop, stand still long enough to adjust myself in a position to practice skating backwards or manuals. I feel like I just keep rolling until I stand on my toe stop. 😅 Your a true inspiration during these weird days

[@eeelizzz]

How is this 7 months later? I went outdoors today and I couldn't just stand unless it was on tow stops. I was terrified to fall just from standing!

[@ASMRTingledPink]

I loved skating when I was a kid. I will be 56 this year and have suddenly become driven to try it again. It's practically all I think about these days. I have ordered some skates but haven't received them yet, so I have been binge watching videos to try and prepare. I am scared as heck! But I want to do this so badly and just hope I am able to get past my fear. But watching the videos is certainly helping me to get prepared for it, so once the skates arrive, I think I will be ready to try! 🥰

[@CraftyCuriosity]

GET OUT OF MY HEAD! Everything you said was true! Great video

[@QuirkyScorpio17]

Oh my gosh, this rink is a blast from the past! I grew up skating here.

[@capricornonthetube71923]

Hey there nice new skates!!! Riedell? Very good quality and nice look..Ok.. during this Covid time talking about managing fear could be useful... 😷 btw with something like skates in general it's better to have a bit of fear it means be careful... I mean, it's good to be confident sure, but not too much or from how to manage fear to how to handle a bone fracture or worse it's a moment! 😖

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

I always put my skate setup in the video description box so check there. These skates used to be white! I agree about needed a bit of fear :)

[@capricornonthetube71923]

@@Dirtydeborahharry Ye sure I seen that 😄 white skates are just good for customizing, I'm an artist, graphic n fashion designer, freetime painter, til now I customized some shoes, fake leather boots so now I wanna do real leather ones with that paint cause I ve found some skates on sale at really low price for the kind of white artistic skates, I wanna free my creativity on it 😍

[@beckyhardman3037]

This is how I felt tonight skating in my driveway this evening (so no one could see me-don’t worry, I was geared up!). I kept telling myself that it will get better with 20 mins every other day like you said in another video. I’ve been watching your videos to try to prepare. I’ve prob watched 15 of your videos so far. It’s still much harder than it looks on your videos lol. I’m 39 (haven’t done this since 15). Thank you so much! I had my first fall and I didn’t die so that took part of the fear out.

[@thehiphypnochick]

I've been watching your vids for years, Dirty...you do your family PROUD!!!

[@autumnscreativeness6566]

hey dirty!, i just went to the lynwood skating ring last night and i had no idea what i was doing i was so nervous and needed help. when i went home i wanted to look up how to skate and get over ur fear of skating. i found ur videos and that inspired me so much i just asked my grandpa to get me a pair of skates. ur videos have really helped me since yesterday . next time i go skating i will skate my but off and have fun, and i will remember to tell my body that i need to go “left right, left right, left right” thank you so much dirty deborah!

[@rebeccashelton9809]

Pilates has helped me so much as I’m now learning to skate, I see the years of Pilates coming into play! Your videos have helped me beyond words. Thank u!!!

[@lucretia_macevil]

i really needed this. its so easy for me to get in my head and prevent myself from getting ahead with what i want to do. thanks for showing i'm not alone! these comments are really helpful.

[@LisaLisa815]

Very good advice, and just remember guys, if we honestly knew how little people care about what we're doing we wouldn't be so self conscious. I know I don't care what anyone else is doing, my mind is always on my myself and what I'm doing, so I'm sure others are the same.

[@janiceaucoin8540]

I litterally just strapped my new skates on just now. I may take never take them off! Your tutorials are my bible. Btw..your hair looks great!

[@maryarias9785]

Estás palabras me ayudarán de verdad a patinar tengo 3 días practicando y me e caído dos veces pero seguiré practicando, ya quería rendirme pero tomate en cuenta tu mensaje, mis codos están raspados pero me gusta esto y quiero aprender bien

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

Continúe practicando. No renuncies. Pronto estarás patinando sin caerte demasiado.

[@eeelizzz]

Deb respondió en español!

[@eeelizzz]

Mary, cómo te va? Yo acabo de empezar el Lunes...

[@michellecollazo-anderson5389]

I love this video, especially waving to the crowd after you fall down, lol! Waving hello to the people you are so worried are judging you! Being yourself and finding your own expression! You are great!

[@bxrosie04]

This is THE video to get me back on the horse. I tried taking up skating a few months back but I just wasn’t in the right frame of mind. I knew what to do physically but that’s about it; the apprehension and fear was still there. So, I took a break and started yoga; been doing it for almost four months and I feel so much more in tune with myself and my body. Combine that with the tips you just gave on how to proceed mentally and emotionally and by George, I think I’ve got it! Hahaha 😅 I’ll definitely be jumping back into it this week once I find a good outdoor spot and replace my plates (side note: any chance you have a video on how to do that?). Thanks so much for really, truly teaching us all how to become confident, fun-loving skaters from the inside out. 💜⛸🥰

[@luvroxie4589]

My Daughter told me about you and I have subscribed to your channel she started class 3 weeks ago and I start next week…thank you for the encouraging words..💝

[@GuiltySparki]

Thank you for these great tips! What really helped me with the fear of falling is practicing it. Practice to fall. I was so scared of knocking my teeth out from falling down but when I practiced it, I quickly found that with the toe stops and pads it’s almost impossible to fall that way! That helped me a lot to just get down on one knee if all else fails.

[@Ophelia11]

Lovely video! I wish we had an actual skating rink here. I'm American but I live in France (not Paris) and the only thing available to me is outdoor terrain (tiny, horrible streets, tiny, overcrowded skate parks and debris-laden and cracked basketball courts). All of this adds to my anxiety and fear of skating. I miss the skating rinks, big, empty parking lots and wide, paved roads/trails in the States! Most of my skating happens on the linoleum floor of my kitchen and dining room. Literally no room to do anything but go forward and back a few feet, but I guess it's better than nothing. 🤣

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

Now it is time to find an older person with a bigger house and smooth floors :)

[@Ophelia11]

@@Dirtydeborahharry Right? LOL

[@cupcakeinlace]

Thank you for sharing this! I tend to be an anxious mess, and never successfully skated as a kid. I'm giving it a go as an adult and so far your videos have helped tremendously, both physically and mentally 💜

[@lucyinthesky9479]

Dirty Deb, I want to thank you! I was feeling really nervous and unsure about going to my first ever skate meet today but I watched this video then took a deep breath and went for it. I had an absolutely amazing time - I met so many wonderful people in the community and had an amazing time skating outdoors, sure I fell a few times but I'm a super new beginner, I just laughed it off and got back up. This video really helped give me the push I needed to get out the door, and now I feel even more confident getting outside and skating, and I can't wait to get my skates on again. Thank you!

[@Judah98]

This is right on time. I'm getting over a broken ankle, but I want to learn now (go figure). This should be the first lesson all new skaters need to hear. 👍💯🙏

[@elizabeth1toney]

This was so helpful. The counting thing is genius!!!

[@jessijacobs8]

Boy I needed to find this video today 😭🙌 Today was a tough day on my new skates....I was so distracted and my focus was so far away from actually skating. Tomorrow will be better 🙏

[@officialannie.eats1]

Thank you sooooooo much!!! Fear is my biggest obstacle. This video is AWESOME!!

[@lizzieluv23]

Omg! Thank you so much Deborah for this video, all these emotions & feelings that you mention LITERALLY is me right now. Insecurities creeping in. But these video definitely motivated me to keep trying & practicing to get better.❤️

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

You are so welcome! I am happy this video is helpful.

[@LJC123]

Body, mind, and soul = skating gold! Yes! 🧡💚🧡

[@madelinejames8107]

Thank you for this video! I had my first lesson today and fell backwards a couple of times. Looking forward to improving over the next week.

[@emily76m]

I love this lady wish I could go skate that rink! 😊

[@GiuliaBrunetti]

I've been watching all of your videos since I've started again to roller skate and I really love the passion you put in teaching us how to improve! Since the day I've put the quads on again, the only thing I can think about is the fact that, when I was a child, I used to roller around my condo like there was no tomorrow, speeding up at every lap, AND I HAD NEVER FALLEN. I DIDN'T ACTUALLY KNOW that falling was a possibility, and so I had never fallen. But nine years ago I went to a skating class and the first thing the teacher said was that we might fall and, since that moment, something clicked in my brain and I started to fall. This thing is driving me mad everyday: I was ignorant and never fell, I acquired knowledge and now, sometimes, I fall. Is being ignorant a bless? This question could match the things you're saying, that our brain is VERY susceptible and we need to free our minds or replace the bad thoughts focusing on the good feelings that endorphin gives to our body. What do you think? :)

[@noathewilder531]

Aw Deb you really are the best. I REALLY needed to hear this. I’ve always been terrified of failure and I think in a lot of ways that’s stopped me from doing stuff I really wanted to do throughout my 21 years. Now I’m determined to not ruin skating for myself because I love it sooooo much. I just want to quiet my head and let my body get in rhythm. Comparing yourself to others is such a downer :/ I’m gonna find my rhythm and just have fun :) thank so much Deb, you really are an amazing teacher ❤️

[@AdventuresofDeanna]

Thank You. I went skating for the first time in over 20 years this past Saturday. Your video about insecurities got me to even go. (I am 45 and fat) I fell pretty hard but I said up up up. I had to take a small break but I said I have to go again and did. Now I have a little fear in me and this is exactly what I need to get me to go back on Saturday!

[@Dee-mw9tk]

Excellent Tutorial OLd sKooL Sk8er aka "LEGACY" 💙

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

Glad you liked it!

[@TheZophisticatedDove]

Love this, I'm so terrified of hurting my neck and back. Thank you for this!

[@christinekiwi-gal9376]

Wow, Sorry for being late to the party but at 52 years old I decided I really want to learn how to roller skate and I’m so glad I found these KZbin tutorials! Dirty Deborah you truly are the BOMB.COM!!! Thank you for your valuable content 😊❤️

[@suzannegardiner6390]

This was PERFECT. You bring me such joy! Love you Dirty!!! xoxoxoxo

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

Glad you enjoyed it :)

[@toricurtis3172]

I’m so scared, freaking out you are reading my mind. I’m too old lol. You’re awesome , I love your videos and feeling better about roller skating.

[@woolinhand]

Thank you so much! I needed this talk from you and it really helped me. I watched it last night and this morning we went to a pump track and I was just going to sit and watch my family do it. I was going to be the bench sitter out of fear. But your video came along and this morning I did it!! So happy. Thank you.

[@Dirtydeborahharry]

OH YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@rb5959]

This is a great video! Your energy and enthusiasm about the skill and joy of skating is contagious. I remember being fearless on skates as a child. Then I stopped skating and I don't even remember why. Now as an adult I have all the fears and anxiety you mentioned like feeling too out of shape, fear of falling, and that I'll look ridiculous. This video reminded me there was a time when I was fearless on skates. Now I know how to get back to that!

[@kellycoombes8065]

Thank you so much! I went along to a trial session for roller derby fresh meat. I have never skated before..I was a blubbering mess! But I was more confident at the end than the beginning and I won't let it defeat me! X

[@MikaaMeoww]

I only found your channel yesterday while learning on my skates for the first time, loved this video! Thank you so much

[@Kara_Jay]

I needed this video today. Sometimes I feel good then other days, every bit of my nerves are speaking to me. Those darn insecurities.