Back Walkover for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Guide
A back walkover is a foundational gymnastics skill where a gymnast begins in a standing position, leans backward into a bridge, and then kicks one leg over to return to…
What Counts as a Penalty in Gymnastics? A Complete Overview
When people think of gymnastics scoring, they usually imagine judges deducting tenths for bent legs, hops on landings, or wobbles on beam. But there’s another layer that can make or…
Artistry Deductions in Gymnastics: What Judges Are Really Looking For
In women’s artistic gymnastics, artistry deductions apply on balance beam and floor exercise when a routine lacks rhythm, expression, smooth transitions, or a personal sense of style. These deductions are…
Train Like a Gymnast: 8 Core Exercises for Strong, Defined Abs
Gymnasts are known for their lean, sculpted abs and incredible core strength. Spend five minutes watching an elite gymnast, and you’ll notice something unique: their midsection barely moves. So, what…
Back-to-Wall vs. Chest-to-Wall: Which Handstand Should Beginners Learn First?
Wall-assisted handstands come in two main flavors: back-to-wall (BTW) and chest-to-wall (CTW). Both help beginners turn gravity on its head—literally—without the fear of crashing down. But while they serve the…
The Complete Guide to Handstand Entries (Kick-Up, Wall, Press & More)
Handstand entries are the gateway to every inverted skill you’ll ever learn. Getting into a handstand is more than just a way to start—it sets the tone for your entire…
Kick-Up to Handstand: The Classic Entry Every Beginner Starts With
If you've ever dreamed of standing upside down, balancing on your hands with grace and control, chances are your journey began—or will begin—with the kick-up to handstand. This is the…
Is the Straddle Press Handstand Harder? Here’s Why Everyone Tries It
At first glance, the straddle press handstand may look effortless, gracefully lifting the legs into a handstand with no momentum, just control. But ask any gymnast, yogi, or calisthenics athlete,…
How to Do a Front Walkover on Beam: A Step-by-Step Guide for Gymnasts
The front walkover on balance beam transforms a familiar floor skill into a show-stopping display of confidence, flexibility, and pinpoint control. Because the beam is only 10 cm (4 in)…
Braids vs. Buns: Which Holds Better for Tumbling Days?
When a round-off back handspring flips you upside down, even one loose strand can cause problems. The motion can snap hair into your eyes or snag on your grips—something that’s…
