Thursday

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The Wall Walk

The wall walk is an excellent tool for introducing the basics of inversion. Coordination and upper-body strength are both challenged as the athlete experiences and strives to maintain fundamental elements of the handstand position. Despite the challenges inherent in being inverted, the athlete remains supported by three points of contact on the floor, wall, or a combination of the two throughout the entire movement. The wall walk can be the first step in a journey toward handstand mastery or a tool for skill development in athletes of any level.

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The Strict Knees-to-Elbows

When performed without kipping, the knees-to-elbows places huge demand on the midline to raise the lower body while also requiring a high level control, both on the way up, and on the way down. A lazy uncurling of the legs on the descent will quickly lead to a wild swing, requiring the athlete to pause and recenter themselves.

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The Strict Toes-To-Bar

The strict toes-to-bar is a staple in the conditioning programs of many gymnasts. Although a relatively non-technical movement, performing it well demands trunk strength, flexibility, and control. Pushing into the bar with straight arms allows you to use the strength of the upper body to assist with elevating the legs. Make sure to keep the legs together and as straight as flexibility will allow.

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