THE BACK-HANDSPRING PROGRESSION : Page 151

HINTS TO BEGINNERS: Before trying this stunt, it is very important that the performer has developed a very limber back. The most common fault of the beginner is leaning forward to swing the arms back in the throw. For the beginner the hands should go back no farther than the hips until he learns to throw with his back straight and his head up. When this correct starting position is established as a habit, it is permissible to bring the arms back farther so as to get a more vigorous throw into an arch. If a beginner insists on putting the arms back and bending over, he should start them between the legs