Tumbling Drills: Back Handsprings

Back Handsprings’ shaping and speed should be trained consistently throughout an athlete’s progression. While the preferred start position for athletes first learning the skill varies depending on the coach, I recommend athletes learn back handsprings without an arm swing. In my opinion, this teaches them to reach their arms back behind their ears more intentionally. Additionally, this prevents athletes from dropping their chest in the sit, which in turn, helps them with a faster take-off.
It is important to note that a standing back handspring must include a block in order for proper landing to happen. It is equally important to note that a back handspring DOES NOT pass through a bridge, and it is worth taking your time to explain the difference of the arch shape and the bridge shape to athletes as they learn back handsprings. Make sure they know they should feel a Handstand shape as their hands block off the ground!