handstand to bridge, kick back walkover

I’m no fan of this compulsory element in the current J.O. Level 3 Floor routine. 😦

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.

Forcing young kids to do forward limber is a mistake. It mostly teaches bad form. And bad technique. Two Olympians from my city could never have competed it at any age. They were fantastic gymnasts and NCAA stars. Talented gymnasts who might have been discouraged out of the sport if forced to do forward limber at a young age.

Click PLAY or watch another example on YouTube.

J.O. rules allow the girls to land in bridge with feet shoulder width apart. And to take one step with the foot to initiate the backward walkover.

My advice to coaches forced to compete this element is to start young. Spend plenty of time. Do not rush. Do not spot.

Start from elevated bridge on a wall and let the girls progress at their own speed. Some soft mat below will be needed for beginners who might fall. Who might miss the wall.

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.

Thanks to coach Andrew Vetter and Gymtastics for hosting this video.