Handstand course:

Handstand Variations

Lesson 3:

The Straddle Leg Handstand

[wtr-time]

[mepr-show if=”rule: 47849″]
This is a premium lesson included in paid memberships only.
You can see the name of the chapters, but not the content.

If you would like to access this lesson, please upgrade your membership here.
[/mepr-show]

[mepr-hide if=”rule: 47849, 47876, 47883″]
This lesson is available for registered members only.
You can see the name of the chapters, but not the content.

If you would like to access this lesson, please create an account. [/mepr-hide]

Chapter 1: Why to straddle your legs in a handstand?

[mepr-show if=”rule: 47876, 47883″]

The straddle leg handstand is not very different from the straight line handstand, and sometimes it can be a better option, depending on what you want to do in the handstand.

A good reason to switch from a straight line to a straddle handstand is when you want to lower your centre of gravity for more control.
Also, if you have a good level of hip flexibility, the straddle leg handstand can look really great in pictures.

[/mepr-show]

Chapter 2: The advantages of the straddle

[mepr-show if=”rule: 47876, 47883″]

Similar to the straight line, the straddle leg handstand allows you to have your body in a line, but this time not as high as when your legs are together.
As I mentioned earlier, your centre of gravity is lower when doing a straddle leg handstand and this allows you to control your balance better.
When I first started to walk on my hands down the stairs years ago, I found it easier when my legs were apart.

[/mepr-show]

Chapter 3: Training for the straddle leg handstand

[mepr-show if=”rule: 47876, 47883″]

To perform a straddle leg handstand, you don’t need to have perfect side splits. As long as you have your feet wider apart than your shoulders, you can benefit from this position.
If you want to straddle your legs more than your hips allows you, there is a big chance you will also pike and bring your legs outside your body’s line.

How to find your best straddle position
1. Lie on your back with your legs together and your hips tilted backwards.
2. Move your legs apart, making sure your lower back is touching the floor the whole time.
3. Stop when you feel like you can’t move your legs further without lifting the heels off the ground.

[/mepr-show]

Chapter 4: How to perform a straddle leg handstand

[mepr-show if=”rule: 47876, 47883″]

You can apply the same “Scissor Mount” and then move your feet apart to get into a straddle leg handstand. Another option is to move your feet sideways as soon as the lower leg is starting to float off the box.

Videos of this variation and more can be found in the “Training for Acro” app.

[/mepr-show]

Chapter 5: Assisted straddle leg handstand

[mepr-show if=”rule: 47876, 47883″]

You can still perform a straddle leg handstand even if your balancing skills are not excellent. I recommend having someone to support your hips from the back instead of placing your back against the wall.
If you still want to practice this variation facing the wall, focus on engaging the core and not arching the back.

[/mepr-show]

[mepr-show if=”rule: 47876, 47883″]

Quick navigation: Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5

[/mepr-show]

[mepr-show if=”rule:47876, 47883″]
[wpc_button]
[/mepr-show]

Members-Only Content

Please log in to access this lesson

No account? No problem…

Course Progress

[wpc_progress_bar]

[mepr-hide if=”rule: 47849, 47876″] Please log in to see your progress. [/mepr-hide]