A Gainer is essentially a backflip where you move forward during the flip.
Based on the provided reference: "But what is a Gainer. Well pretty much a Gainer is just a backflip. But you move forward." This concise definition captures the core concept of this dynamic acrobatic maneuver.
Understanding the Gainer
The Gainer is a popular trick in various sports and activities, including:
- Gymnastics: Often seen in floor routines or tumbling passes.
- Tricking (Martial Arts Tricking): A foundational move in this sport blending martial arts, gymnastics, and breakdancing elements.
- Parkour: Can be performed off obstacles or from heights.
- Diving: Sometimes adapted as a specific type of dive (a forward-moving back somersault).
At its heart, the Gainer involves:
- Initiating a takeoff, typically from one or two feet.
- Performing a backward rotation similar to a backflip.
- Crucially, maintaining forward momentum throughout the rotation.
This combination of backward rotation and forward travel distinguishes it from a standard backflip, which usually involves rotating directly upwards and downwards from a fixed point.
Gainer vs. Backflip
Here's a simple comparison:
| Feature | Gainer | Backflip |
|---|---|---|
| Rotation | Backward | Backward |
| Movement | Moves forward during flip | Typically stays in place |
| Takeoff | Often off one leg or both | Usually off both legs |
Learning a Gainer requires significant strength, coordination, spatial awareness, and practice, often starting with progressions like gainers off an edge or with spotters.
