Cheerleading Back Handspring

A well done back handspring looks spectacular during a sporting event. Though it is a requirement for making a lot of cheerleading squads it still creates fear in many of those who do it. There is a proper technique in doing a back handspring and those who do it correctly find it much safer to practice and much less hazardous to the body. We will try to show you the best way to practice this tumbling skill.

A back handspring is started by sitting back as if sitting down in a chair which shifts the body weight behind the feet as shown in Picture 1. As the body starts to fall backwards the arms are swung up and back, head following looking at the hands which are stretching towards the floor, while at the same time the legs are straightened driving the body back as shown in Picture 2. As the hands contact the floor the legs pass overhead in a handstand position as shown in Picture 3. As the legs pass overhead continuing to move towards the floor there is a strong push and repulsion from the hands driving the body off of the floor as shown in Picture 4. If you concentrate on the rebound at the end of the back handspring that will help prepare you for being able to do a back tuck or back flip at the end of your back handspring. When doing a tumbling pass each element helps lead the body into what comes next. If you learn the back handspring first then it will make it easier to advance to more complicated skills later on. Just practice your back handspring in a controlled environment such as a gymnastics studio or cheerleading school where you will have expert instruction and spotting. This will allow you to safely practice while you are learning. Be patient and don't rush it and you will be rewarded with a spectacular tumbling element to add to your cheerleading tryouts.

Remember, a back handspring is something that should not be practiced in the back yard while learning. It should be practiced in a gymnastics class under controlled conditions with proper spotting. It is a skill that will increase your chances of making the cheerleading squad but should never be done without proper precautions.