How to Do a 360 Tuck Front Flip on a Trampoline

Trampolines are a strong learning aide for gymnasts who want to perfect a stunt before trying it on the floor. The front tuck is a basic move that requires timing and technique as well as leg strength. Learning it correctly on the trampoline is essential if you want to use it later on the spring floor.

Instructions

1. Safety first. Only one person should jump at a time on a trampoline. Follow strict gymnastic rules. A coaching spotter who knows how to assist a jumper may accompany you during your stunts.

2. Begin by familiarizing yourself with the feel of the trampoline. Attempt the front tuck only after you are comfortable with the basic gymnastic jumps; seat drops, swivels, knee drops and vertical turns are prerequisites to the front tuck.

3. Tuck to a back landing. As a first step, stand still on the trampoline and do a forward roll, tucking your head to your chest and making contact with the trampoline on your shoulder blades.

4. Add a slight bounce and continue to tuck and roll until you feel comfortable.

5. Progress gradually by adding a little more rotation to your roll. Land on your rump and bounce up to your feet. Practice tucking your legs into your chest a little but not so much that you bump your chin with your knees when you land. To be on the safe side, always keep your mouth closed and your teeth together when you jump.

6. Bounce a little higher and try your front tuck with the assistance of a spotter. Now that you know the feeling of rotating forward, it's time to try your tuck in the air. There is one notable difference. You will perform the same tucking motion straight up instead of moving forward.

7. Prepare for your landing by keeping your knees flexed to absorb the bounce. Keep practicing your front tuck until you can do it in one fluid motion. The correct gymnastic front tuck begins and ends on the same spot.