Freestanding Handstand on Parallel Bars

Description:

Very few professional gymnasts will argue that the Handstand is the most important skill in the sport of gymnastics.  Many gymnastics-related skills, whether it be the most basic to the most difficult, require the ability to maintain a solid handstand position.  Maintaining postural control while upside down is one of the main keys to success in the sport of gymnastics.  The importance of this position is beginning to spread into many realms, especially with handstands beginning to play a major role in the CrossFit and calisthenic world.  The key to developing a solid handstand is to practice perfectly.  Building the correct foundation is of utmost importance as poor habits become hard to break.  Take caution with handstands on the parallel bars as you are higher off the ground.  If you are new to this, perfect the position on the floor, parallettes, or against the wall.

Process:

• begin in a support on the parallel bars
• use one of few ways to get into handstand (press, swing, etc)
• tighten core and hold handstand position, ensuring that the body forms a straight line from head to toe,
• head should be in line with arms
• maintain balance by using hands, wrists, fingers, and shoulders