How to Do a Cartwheel
Connect with your inner gymnast by learning the steps for executing a proper cartwheel.
You Will Need
- Soft surface
- Upper-body strength
Steps
-
Step 1
Find a safe area
Choose a large area with a soft surface, such as an area with a mat, a padded carpet, or soft grass to practice your cartwheel.
-
Don't attempt a cartwheel if you do not have the upper-body strength to support yourself as you go over.
-
Step 2
Extend your arms
Extend your arms straight above your head.
-
Step 3
Position your feet
Point your leading foot in the direction you will move and point your back foot slightly outward for balance. Bend your leading knee in a slight lunge.
-
Lead with the hand and leg that are the strongest. For instance, if you are right-handed, lead with your right hand and right leg.
-
Step 4
Focus on your first landing
Focus your sight on the ground where you will place your hands.
-
Step 5
Start your turn
Reach outward and down with your leading arm, kicking your back leg up. Put a powerful thrust behind the turn.
-
Step 6
Lock your elbows
Lock your elbows when as land on your hands or else you will likely fall.
-
Step 7
Follow through
Bring your second hand quickly to the ground while simultaneously swinging your back leg up and over your body.
-
Step 8
Practice good posture
Keep your back straight, your toes pointed, and your legs straight and spread apart as you move through the cartwheel.
-
Visualize that you are in a narrow hallway as you move through the cartwheel, striving to keep you hands and feet on a single plane.
-
Step 9
Do a handstand
Do a brief handstand and then continue the rotation until both feet are back on the ground. Keep practicing until you get it right.
-
The term "gymnastics" comes from a Greek word meaning "to exercise naked."
