How to Do a Handstand in a Chair

Introduction

Bored at a party? School? A funeral? A handstand on a chair is a great way to liven up a crowd while also demonstrating your ninja-like prowess. The best part is that even though it looks difficult, it's actually easier to pull off than just a regular handstand.

By: Soren

Length: 0:22

Comments: 2

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Instructions

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Difficulty: Challenging

Tips & Warnings:

The first four steps are only for doing the handstand from a seated position. You can just as easily start standing up next to the chair.
Try everything slowly the first few times to learn where the hardest parts are, and where you need to concentrate.
When raising your feet over your head, always keep your body at a slight angle, so that if something goes wrong you wall fall to your feet instead of on your back.
Always use a spotter when attempting a handstand in a chair, the trick is inherently dangerous.
Make sure the back of the chair is sturdy, some plastic chairs will flex once all your weight is on them.
Put down some cushioning the first few times you try it.
Don't try a handstand in a chair if you cannot support your own body weight with your arms.

Step1

Sit in the chair sideways with your dominant hand on the back of the chair, and your other hand gripping the edge of the seat as though you were going to pick the chair up while sitting in it.

Step2

Lift yourself off the chair by locking your non-dominant arm straight and allowing the majority of the weight to rest on it, while using your dominant hand on the back of the chair for balance.

Step3

Tuck your feet underneath you without allowing them to touch the chair.

Step4

Swing your feet all the way through while bringing your knees to your chest so that your torso is now horizontal to the seat, facing downward.

Step5

Rest your shoulder next to your dominant hand on the back of the chair, this will offer a considerable amount of balance and it's what makes the trick easier than a normal handstand.

Step6

Un-tuck your knees and extend your feet above you at a slight angle so that if you fall, it is on your feet instead of your back. Do this slowly to maintain balance and control the whole time.

Step7

Once your legs are fully extended, arch your back until your legs are directly over your body. Then drop to your feet or follow the steps backward to return to the sitting position.

Comments

cd12117 said

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on 3/2/2008 Make sure you have control over your body when you do this, otherwise you will come down too fast. It looks cool, and everyone thinks it's soooo difficult! :)