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LIMBER-UPS FOR THE BACK HANDSPRINGS Before the back handspring progression is begun, the performers should be preparing for it. These exercises should be done for at least two weeks before the series is started, and they should be practiced every day. The objective in each of these is to limber up the back gradually without straining it. Straining the ligaments of the lumbar region especially may lead to postural difficulties later in life. It is not the middle of the back that needs the most limbering up and stretching; most beginners will have to do much of the stretching at the shoulder and hip joints. In the back bend it is very important that the head be kept back or raised as far as possible, and that the elbows be kept straight. The performer may start as for a hand balance or forearm stand and kick over into the arch. Walking down a partners legs is shown in Figure 114. This may also be done against a wall. Figure 115 shows how to stretch the shoulders back. The elbows should be straight and the hands shoulder-width apart as you do this exercise. |
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