How to Improve Tumbling in Gymnastics

Last Updated: May 30, 2022

Have you ever tried tumbling in gymnastics? Have you struggled to master the skill? This wikiHow should help you learn how to improve your tumbling skills. With practice, you'll master the tumbling skill in no time.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Considering Improvement Areas

1
Set yourself basic goals. A kid doesn't learn to type before they learn the alphabet, so why would you try to learn a roundoff before you can do a cartwheel?
- Some basic moves are forward roll, backward roll, candlestick, cartwheel and a backbend.
2
Go to open gyms in your area. Open gyms are a great place to practice any skills you need to work on but be wary. Some gyms offer supervision, but the supervisors simply sit and read a book. Never try any skill you haven't mastered or need a spot on.

Advertisement
3
Try some more advanced moves. As you get more and more advanced, it is necessary to go to a gymnastic center with plenty of professionals, then your house to practice.
- Some more advanced moves to try once you have got your basic moves are: handstands, kickover (from bridge), one-handed cartwheel, front limber and back limber.
- Don't be put down if you do not get these moves in a matter of weeks, they are quite hard, so they may take well over a month if your practicing at home.
4
Work on moves progressively. Master all drills, previous skills, and other preparations before you attempt a new move. For example, on beam, master on low beam, high beam with mats, and high beam.
5
Warm up every time you practice. It may not seem important but it is a simple way to avoid strained wrists, torn muscles, and many other painful injuries. Jogging around for a couple of minutes is all you need for warming up, and stretches such as the seal for a couple of seconds are always a good idea.
- Practice the splits everyday. It will give you new moves to try.
- Practicing a bridge is a lot more important than most people realize. Many gymnastics moves involve back strength, so practicing a bridge is very important.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Tumble on a Trampoline

1
Do a tuck jump. This is a simple starter skill that will help you learn to tumble on the trampoline.
- To do a tuck jump:
  - Jump in the air
  - Bring your knees to your chest.
  - Land on your feet.
- If you fall when you do this, try it on the floor first.
2
Jump in the air and make a 'V' with your legs. Reach for your toes.
- Work on your straddle before trying this jump.
3
Do a half twist.
- Jump in the air and twist your body.
- You should be facing the opposite way after finishing the twist.
Note: This trick is hard. You can easily lose balance. Put mats under the trampoline in case you do. It might be a good idea to ask for support or supervision during this trick.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Do Basic Tumbling

1
Learn a forward roll. Many people call it a somersault. This is the most basic skill. Knowing this will help with a lot of other skills, including flips.
- To carry out a forward roll:
  - Get down on the ground.
  - Drop your head between your arms
  - Keep your chin tucked in
  - Roll forward.
2
Learn a backwards roll. This is the next easiest skill, and, like a forward roll, helps with other skills.
- To do a backward roll;
  - Get on the ground
  - Roll backwards.
  - Push with your hands and shoulders.
3
Learn a cartwheel. This skill may look hard, but with practice you'll get there.
- To carry out a cartwheel;
  - Place your hands on the ground
  - Kick up and make a 'v' with your legs.
  - End in a lunge.
4
Learn a handstand. Start in standing position and place your hands on the ground. Kick up.
- To carry out a handstand;
  - Place your hands on the ground
  - Kick up and hold this position
    - Ensure to keep your legs straight at all times.
Tip: Get someone else to support you with this if needed.

Warnings

Be careful. Always try to have supervision. Tumbling can be dangerous, and you can hurt yourself!

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Before attempting any skill, make sure you know how to properly execute it, or have a teacher.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0