The roll backward to handstand begins by falling into a backward roll. In the lying position, the lower limbs are sticking up. This is supported by active arms extension, which allows the athlete to get into the handstand.

View of the practitioner

In roll backward to handstand, the transformation of the initial potential energy into kinetic rotational energy is used. During the movement, however, the gymnast must perform mechanical work to supply the body with the necessary potential energy, which is higher in handstand than in the starting position. This work is done in part by the muscular force exerted to push the legs upwards. By the law of conservation of momentum, the speed of the kicking lower limbs is transferred to the speed of the torso. The muscular force of the upper limbs or the reaction force to their application to the ground also contributes to this work.

• Incorrect timing of kicking up the lower limbs and pushing off with the arms.

• Physical preparation 1

  Not only upper body strength is important, but also basic experience with the handstand element where holding a body tight is key. A suitable exercise can be a handstand push-up against the wall.

• Drill 1

  Mastering of the pike backward roll, where the athlete moves through the lying position with the extended legs, can be helpful for successful training.

• Drill 2

  It is important to practice the work of legs in a dynamic way from the lying position, legs up, to the shoulder stand position.

• Drill 3

  This is followed by assisted training of the transition from lying position to handstand.

• Drill 4

  Then practice the whole element with and later without assistance.

We provide assistance by holding the lower limbs near the knees as the practitioner moves into the laying position, legs up, and ease the transition to the handstand.