How to Do Au Sem Mao

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Au Sem Mao is an aerial acrobatic move in the martial art of Capoeira. It is also a gymnastic move and known as a cartwheel with no hands. This cartwheel is usually the first aerial move that practitioners learn in Capoeira because it is less dangerous than other aerial self defense moves. Martial artists combine Au Sem Mao with other self defense moves.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Step 1

Slide your right leg behind you in a wide stance.
Step 2

Switch sides, bringing your right leg forward and sliding your left leg behind you to build momentum for the Capoeira Au Sem Mao move.
Step 3

Step up with your left leg while twisting your arms to the right side of your body. Place your left leg slightly in front of the right in a very wide stance (shoulder width or more).
Step 4

Twist your body back to the left bringing your upper body and head toward the ground. It is important to create as much torque as possible going into this move.
Step 5

Flip your legs over your upper body at the same time, but don't use your hands to help you complete the cartwheel.
Step 6

Land on your left foot first then the right to finish the move.