To do a roundoff back handspring, you need to perform a normal roundoff with a nice long line reaching, then critically, you must carry that rebound backwards and make a little bit more coverage in your rebound to generate the necessary backward momentum for the back handspring.
Combining the roundoff and back handspring smoothly requires linking the forward momentum of the roundoff into backward momentum for the subsequent skill. The reference highlights the importance of the rebound out of the roundoff as the key transition element.
Key Transition: From Roundoff Rebound to Backward Momentum
The roundoff is essentially a cartwheel that finishes with your feet together, propelling you upward. For a roundoff back handspring, this upward momentum must immediately be directed backward.
Here's a breakdown based on the reference:
- Start with a Proper Roundoff: Execute your standard roundoff with good form, emphasizing the "nice long line reaching." This implies a strong punch off the ground as you finish the roundoff.
- Direct the Rebound Backward: Instead of simply rebounding straight up or slightly forward (as you might for a forward tumbling pass), you must actively direct the energy and height from the roundoff rebound backwards.
- Increase Rebound Coverage: The reference mentions making "a little bit more coverage" in the rebound. This likely refers to gaining ground backward during the initial bounce or hop after the roundoff before initiating the back handspring. This backward travel helps set up the trajectory for the back handspring.
- Build Backward Momentum: By carrying the rebound backward and getting good coverage, you create the essential backward momentum and height needed to launch into the back handspring safely and effectively.
Steps for the Transition
Think of the roundoff finish and the back handspring initiation as one continuous motion.
- Finish Roundoff Strong: Land with feet together and punch up vigorously.
- Think Back on the Rebound: As you rebound, think about driving your hips and chest back rather than straight up.
- Cover Ground: Allow yourself to travel slightly backward during this initial bounce.
- Initiate Back Handspring: Use this backward momentum and height to throw your arms back and initiate the backward rotation of the back handspring.
Why is the Rebound Critical?
The rebound out of the roundoff is your opportunity to convert horizontal speed and vertical lift from the roundoff into the backward energy required for the handspring. A weak or misdirected rebound will make the back handspring significantly harder and potentially unsafe.
Using the rebound to gain backward coverage is a technique to ensure you have enough space and momentum to complete the back handspring effectively, leading to a more powerful and connected tumbling pass.
