How to Do a Round-Off Back Handspring

A round-off back handspring is an advanced move in gymnastics and cheerleading. This complicated maneuver serves as a building block to even more complex gymnastic moves, so it's important to do it correctly.

Instructions

1. Visualize a line growing out straight from your feet. Lift your left leg and bring your knee to 90-degree angle. As you do this, bring your hands up to your ears so they're straight in the air.

2. Jump off with the right foot and throw your body forward. As you put your hands on the ground, make sure they both touch the visual line you drew on the mat. Your hands should not be on either side of the line, but come down onto the line one after another in a straight line.

3. Land with your feet close together facing the direction you've come from. As you land, keep your back straight with your hands still straight up by your ears. Bend your knees until you're in a semi-sitting position.

4. Lift off into the back handspring by jumping and slightly arching your back while throwing your hands backwards. Keep your body tight, your feet together and your legs straight after the jump.

5. Use momentum from your round-off to push your body over and into a flip. Don't wait to gain your balance after your round off or you'll slow your momentum and may disrupt the handspring.

6. Bring both feet back down together. Your feet should land facing the direction in which you began your round off.

7. Stand up straight, arch your back slightly and throw your arms straight out in a V-shape to complete the handspring.

Tips & Warnings

• Use well padded mats and enlist a spotter while learning these handsprings. The spotter can show you the correct form while you're jumping.