Do A Back Handspring
A back handspring can easily by performed by those who have taken lessons on gymnastics or cheerleading. However, dancers especially those who fancy hip hop and breakdance can also learn to do this to provide unique moves to their dance sequence. For first timers, this may take a little practice but once you’ve started, doing this should be fast and easy.
As a precaution, those who’d like to try this should never do this at home as it could only lead to injury. Instead, go to your local gym where a wide open space is available for you to practice. Make sure to use a mat to support you especially your back in case you fall as you practice.
To start, first assume the “I” position by standing straight with your hands straight up high. From there, do a squat position with your knees bent and your buttocks out. Straighten your back and hold your hands up over your head. Imagine yourself sitting in a chair that’s leaning backwards and about to fall.
Next is to push your feet off the ground while at the same time pushing your hands keeping your arms straight. It’s similar to when you’re doing a handstand. Depending on which makes you comfortable, you can vary the position of your hands. Some use the straight hand up position while preparing for the jump while the others teach the arm swing before jumping off the ground.
The important thing to remember here is to keep your hands straight as you jump and fall backwards. This position is meant to protect your head and prevent it from hitting the floor. Additionally, never look behind you as you do your back handspring because this will only lead to a head injury. The trick is just to jump as high as you can and keep your hands straight and strong as you land on the ground.
Now while you’re airborne, assume the so-called bridge position. As the name suggests, your body at this time should form the shape of a bridge which means your upper chest up to your hips should be in a horizontal position while your arms and legs are pointed downwards. Avoid looking down or finding the ground at this point.
From there, you prepare for the landing. It’s very important that you keep your hands straight when you land and give it more strength to hold your body. Try not to bend your hands as you hit the ground as it will only lead you to fall and collapse. During this time, make sure to keep your body tight so that you don’t fall.
The last step is the handspring and you do this before your feet touches the ground. Push your hands off the ground using the strength of your shoulders but be sure not to bend them. There should be no point in this act that you bend your hands. They should always remain straight from start to finish just like those gymnasts when they perform their floor exercises.
As always, practice makes perfect so just remember to keep those important rules in mind all the time to perfect your back handspring.
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