How to Cartwheel Off the Wall

Use a wall to help improve your cartwheel technique.

If you are a cheerleader, dancer or gymnast, you probably need to know how to do a cartwheel. While this move comes easily to some people, others need a little extra practice before they are able to perfect it. If you are having trouble doing a cartwheel, practicing your technique against a wall can help you to learn. Practice this way until you are comfortable enough with your technique to do a cartwheel on your own.

Instructions

1. Stand with your back facing the wall, positioning your hands approximately 1 foot from the wall.

2. Lower your hands to the floor in front of you and walk your feet up the wall into a handstand position. Keep both elbows straight to strengthen your hold.

3. Spread your legs apart into a "V" position. Begin to lower one of your legs, lifting the opposite hand from the floor. Follow by lowering the other leg and raising the other arm from the floor.

4. Land in an upright position with your arms raised above your head and your feet flat on the ground.

Tips & Warnings

• Stretch before attempting to do a cartwheel to loosen your muscles, so you do not injure yourself.

• Choose a space along the wall where there is plenty of space to do a cartwheel, so you do not run into anything.

References

• University of Florida: Step By Step Cartwheel Slide Show
• Gymnastics Zone: Cartwheels
• Ms. Pineapple: Help! I Can't Do a Cartwheel
• iSport: How to Do a Cartwheel in Gymnastics