How to do a Back Handspring by Mr. Spring 

"If you can do the DRILL, you can do the SKILL." -Jeromy "Mr. Spring" Ray

Pre-Skill(s)

Bridge, Arm Swing, Handstand, Handstand Snap Down Rebound, 1-2-3's (Arch Jumps), Squat, Sit-Back, back bend and back limber (optional). Drills: 1-2-3's, jump on top of a folded panel mat start with one or two panels folded and then work your way up the rest of the panels. *The higher the better :-) Sit-Back, sit in a 90 degree angle and sit back, have someone or something behind you to catch your fall. *This drill is to help you avoid undercutting. Back bends (Rainbow Drill), once you are able to get to the top of the folded panel mat then do what I like to call "rainbows" into a spotter's arms. Snap Down Rebound, simple handstands with a snap down is sufficient, but you can also bridge up with feet resting on a wall and then snap down from your bridge-with-wall position. 

During Skill 

First determine how strong your legs and arms are. If your legs aren't strong enough then you won't get over unless you're extremely flexible. If your arms aren't strong enough then you won't be able to hold yourself up. Noodle legs, arms, not bending the back and/or lack of confidence are the primary reasons for failure on this skill. 

Start off with a mat and a spotter and not just anyone make sure that the spotter is strong enough to not only help you over, but to catch you in case you don't execute the steps. If the spotter isn't strong enough then don't do it or get a double spot, another person to assist in spotting. 

Doing the Back Handspring from standing position. 

Step 1: Start with hands up for a big arm swing. Be sure to be in a straight body position. 

Step 2: Bend knees to your 90 degree squat while swinging the arms. *Variation, leave arms up or only bring them in front of you and then back up again. 

Step 3: Sit Back 

Step 4: Jump into Back Bend "Rainbow" to hands. 

Step 5: Snap Down Rebound *Rebound is to prepare you for more advanced skills; with each rebound, you're building muscles. 

Post Skill 

Film yourself doing the back handspring or have an experienced tumbling coach watch you. Afterwards the coach or you will be able to point out exactly which step, if any, needs improvement. 

LET'S GET READY TO TUMBLE!!!