back handspring?

Question

ok well im 13 years old and my cheerleading starts up again in august. i want to get a back handspring by then. well i can do it with 2 spotters and when i tried it with one i kinda went to the side :[ any advice/tips with be helpful ( oh and i am doing this in my yard) :]

we have a trampoline but my cheerleading coach said not to learn it on a trampoline first :]

Answer 1

I am very glad you are using spotters. I hope they are well-trained.

Do you know why you cannot do it on your own yet? Is it you lack a good strong jump up and backwards? Or do you not get your arms under your shoulders, thus collapsing on your head?

Try the drills here and see if they help you out: http://geocities.com/aescougarcheer/basics.htm#td

Answer 2

I would try to practice a few on the trampoline. I understand what your coach is saying, but just to get movement of a back handspring I would do it on a trampoline a few times. Make sure before you swing your arms to jump you lean back as far as you can on your heels in almost a sitting like position.Then swing your arms and jump. Be VERY careful at home with other spotters, it is very dangerous. Your best bet is find a gym near by and take tumbling classes. Good Luck!

Answer 3

its good your practicing but before i explain your backhandspring i'd like to say i am an experienced gymnast and i used to practice my tucks in my yard until i realized how dangerous it is. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do it on a mat, trampoline, or something under you, that's your #1 safest bet.

but anyway ..

the trick to a backhandspring is to focus on your height and your length. think about extending your entire body, your backhandspring should extend as long as you are. by thinking about this, you won't focus on the spots you have, and by doing this little mind game you'll master it. i know it worked for me.

Answer 4

Don't fall