Well…for the first I would start it at least 57 years ago,but I saw it only in the circus.
Finally I did start …over one year ago without any protectors.
After banging the head ,only on the grass, I did not like it ,hence came the helmet.Ripping off the skin from medial malleoli was not a fun …so…ankle protectors came.Ripping of the skin from the shins was not a kiss …shin protectors came.Finally after few finger injuries I decided to enjoy the experience more fully and added wrist elbow and knee protectors.
It is boring to put this all gear on and I sewat under it with added glowes on, but I know I invested fully in enjoing my passion.As for the fear…it does not make any difference.Fear is there as I do not remember what I have on…ONLY …when,very rarely ,there is unexpected fall … big bang …may be thorn trousers and…NO INJURY.Conclusion. I obviously admire those who do without and get unpanished…I am too old or too indulgent for it…ha! If spelling is questionable I can not help it.I am dyslectically unprotected.
Uniwitold.
:)