The roll backward pike can be initiated from squat or standing position by falling backwards. During the roll it is important to keep the lower limbs straight at the chest, followed by placing the feet on the ground as close to the head as possible. Completion of the roll depends on the strength of the upper limb extensors.

• Technique variants

  Advanced technique.

View of the practitioner

Unlike the roll backward, the lower limbs remain extended all the time, so there is no change in the moment of inertia. The starting position partly provides the body with energy needed to perform the element. Deep leaning forward at the start allows for optimal conversion of potential to kinetic energy. Otherwise, the energy would be converted to deformation energy and the velocity would be reduced during the fall. The rest of the energy required during the roll is supplied by the work of the upper limb extensors.

• Insufficient push up at the end of the roll backward.
• Steps with hands.
• Bent legs.

• Physical preparation 1

  In this roll type, more emphasis must be placed on upper limb strength, e.g., performing push-ups from a standing position.

• Physical preparation 2

  A similar modification is push-ups with lower limb support on elevated surface.

• Physical preparation 3

  Flexible erector spinae and hamstring muscles are also important.

• Drill 1

  After mastering the roll backward, we can practice the execution of the pike backward roll on inclined surface.

We provide assistance by holding the athlete by the hips where we help to lift the body and add rotation.