Expert: Kimmi - 11/15/2008

Question
I am learning how to do a back walkover can you give me any tips on mastering it.

Also how can I learn to do a back handspring without any coaches? Any tips on how to do that to? Please help.

I almost have my back walkover down. How long will it take to learn a back handsring usually?

Answer
Hi Jasmine,

  The only real tips I can give you for back walkovers are to work on going down into a bridge from a standing position and then work on kicking over. It's all practice.

  As to back handsprings, I do not recommend trying anything with a coach. Tumbling is not something to be done without the proper safety precautions and you can be seriously injured if you attempt things without the proper training. You need to find someone involved in teaching tumbling to help you with this.

  As to the timeline for getting your back handspring, that differs from person to person. I have one athlete who got it in a few hours, and I have one athlete that has been working on it for 14 years. But, the most common timeline seems to be 6 months to a year of work. But, the harder you work, the faster you will get it. And make sure to condition. Being strong enough to do the trick is 90% of the battle. Good luck!

Happy Cheering,
Kimmi