3 Beginner Gymnastics Skills You Should Learn First

Source: Magnific.com

Gymnastics is a journey of discovery. And this exciting path starts with learning some fundamental skills. In this article, we will discuss in detail the foundational gymnastics skills that lead to incredible achievements.

Forward Roll

Beginner gymnastics lessons all start with the same drill: tuck and roll. You have to practice a real roll on a firm mat. Sit and bring your knees near your chest. After that, grab your shins, and now rock back and forth. Feel your spine touch the mat. That is your first win.

Now, from a squat and keep your heels down. After that, put your hands flat on the mat, tuck your chin to your chest, and look at your belly. Now, push with your legs and roll on the back of your neck, not the top of your head. Keep in mind that a head roll hurts, but a neck roll is smooth. You should keep your back round like a wheel. Otherwise, a flat back stops the roll, and you will flop to the side.

Backward Roll

Most beginners are scared of backward rolls, as you cannot see where you are going in this move. But worry not and trust the mat. Start in a squat again, and put your hands near your ears, fingers pointing back. Now, tuck your chin and do not look back. After that, roll back onto your shoulders and push with your hands as you go. Your palms press the mat, and that lift saves your neck.

In a backward roll, your feet go over your head. You should keep them together and end in a squat or a push-up. Feel the power in your arms. Most beginners keep their arms too wide, which leads to a wrong move. You should keep your elbows in and touch your ears with your biceps. That gives a strong push. However, the best approach is to practice the backward roll on a sloped mat first.

Cartwheel

Keep in mind that a cartwheel is a side move, not a front flip. You should start this move by keeping one leg ahead and arms up high. After that, put your front hand down, and then your back hand. Now, kick your back leg up, and then your front leg, landing one foot at a time.

You should think of a straight line, and your hands and feet should hit that same line on the mat. The best approach is to look at a tape line on the floor and follow it. Most beginners turn their hips in this move, which is wrong. You should keep your hips high and your arms straight. Bent arms drop your weight, while straight arms hold you up.

For the cartwheel move, you can start with a handstand against a wall. Walk your feet up, and then step down one foot at a time. That teaches the leg split. After that, you can try the full move on a soft mat. And do not worry about speed, as it will improve with time.