What skill is essential for effective pivoting in roller derby?

Maintaining proper body posture during turns is essential for effective pivoting in roller derby because it allows the skater to maintain balance and control while changing direction. Proper posture involves keeping the knees bent, the weight centered over the feet, and the upper body leaned slightly forward. This stance enables better maneuverability and prevents falls or collisions when making sharp turns.

When a skater pivots, they need to rotate their body efficiently while keeping their center of gravity low. This combination of posture and weight distribution ensures that the skater can execute a pivot smoothly and swiftly, regardless of the speed at which they are traveling or the intensity of the game. By having good posture, skaters can also respond more effectively to the movements of teammates and opponents, which is crucial in the dynamic environment of roller derby.